The steel industry inevitably emits CO₂. In nature, iron exists as oxidized iron ore, and oxygen is removed from iron ore to produce steel products. The most effective method for reducing large quantities of iron ore is using coal. This process generates CO₂ as a byproduct since carbon removes oxygen from iron ore through a chemical reaction. The majority of CO₂ emissions in the steelmaking process stem from the iron ore reduction stage that takes place in blast furnaces. Even though steel generates less CO₂ per unit of output compared to other materials, it has an extensive range of usage. In addition, steel is often used in large quantities, resulting in higher emissions.  

However, far​​ from giving up on CO₂ reduction, the industry fully supports the Paris Agreement, which aims to limit temperature rise globally to well below 2℃ above pre-Industrial Revolution levels, and pursues efforts to limit the increase to 1.5℃.

To firmly commit to a low-carbon future, investment in new technologies is ongoing. For example, hydrogen (H₂)-based ironmaking with hydrogen-bearing fuels, such as natural gas and biogas, is being developed. Using electric furnaces can also be another way to reduce CO₂ emissions, as it accelerates the recycling of scrap irons, of which oxygen is already removed, and thus produces little CO₂.

Source: 【NIPPON STEEL】Carbon Neutral Movie

As for one to ONE Group, the group companies and the partners are involved in initiatives to reduce CO₂ emissions as a whole, including DSTI, which is engaged in steel pipe production. For example, DSTI has introduced Smart Factory Solution, or SFS, to improve production efficiency, and as for IndustrialML, the developer of SFS, the spread of this system will help to streamline the production process as DSTI does and thus lead to CO₂ reduction, on a broader scale. Furthermore, with its unique and eco-friendly Inline Galvanizing technology, Superior Technologies also commits to reducing the CO₂ emissions generated during zinc production.

See also: CO₂ Emission