The European Steel Association (EUROFER) has greeted the release of the Circular Economy Action plan. The sector believes the Action Plan is an important step in developing a truly circular economy in Europe.
Aspects of the new Circular Economy Action plan are of noted importance for the steel sector. These include products policy, ‘process-related residues’ and the secondary raw materials market.
Another concern addressed in the Action Plan is about the leakage of waste to export markets. The carbon embedded in scrap means that using it as a raw material can help reduce emissions from steel production.
While welcoming the Action Plan, EUROFER nevertheless urges caution on some elements. Not all materials are the same and a one-size-fits-all policy will not suit all. The path towards greater circularity must be built upon scientific, evidence-based principles. Otherwise, the intentions of Communication may not improve circularity.
