Sustainability
Greenhouse Gas Targets—Our Path Forward
Science-Based Greenhouse Gas Targets
Our new targets were established using the Global Steel Climate Council’s (GSCC) Steel Climate Standard which includes key greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through hot rolling from Scope 1, Scope 2, and upstream Scope 3 categories. The GSCC Steel Climate Standard science-based emissions target certification is aligned with the Paris Agreement’s goals and with the International Energy Agency’s Net Zero by 2050: A Roadmap for the Global Energy Sector.
GHG Targets
2050 emissions intensity target for our steel mills of 0.12 metric tons of CO₂e per metric ton of hot rolled steel produced
Interim 2030 emissions intensity target of 0.80 metric tons of CO₂e per metric ton of hot rolled steel produced
2These estimated emissions intensities may vary, as our decarbonization plan is reviewed and adjusted regularly.
3These projects are under various stages of implementation and/or consideration. If all projects were implemented, they would exceed the 2030 target.
GSCC Certified Products
All Steel Dynamics steel mills have achieved GSCC product certification, validating that these steel products are on the glidepath to achieve the goals of the Paris Climate Agreement’s 1.5° C scenario. For our customers, this means greater transparency and confidence when sourcing lower-embodied carbon steel products. The GSCC product certification is recognition that lower-embodied carbon steel products necessary for the transition to a lower-carbon global economy are available now.
Renewable Biocarbon Investment
We plan to supply our EAF steel mills with a renewable replacement for anthracite.
- Commissioning is planned to begin in Q3 2025
- Expected annual capacity of 228,000 metric tons
- We estimate this first facility will reduce our Scope 1 steelmaking GHG absolute emissions by as much as 35%
Canyon Wind Energy Center
We plan to supply our EAF steel mills with a renewable replacement for anthracite.
In 2023, we signed the largest renewable product purchase agreement for the steel industry in North America, equivalent to approximately 15% of our steel mills’ electricity usage in 2023.
- Began commercial operations in Q1 2024
- We surpassed our 2025 renewable electrical energy goal and this project propels us toward our 2030 goal of 30% renewable electricity
- Meaningfully contributes to our long-term reduction of Scope 2 GHG emissions intensity
Other Projects
- Clean energy
- Steel mill decarbonization projects
- Biocarbon substitute usage at our existing ironmaking operation
To achieve our steel mill targets, we will continue working to:
Identify and implement GHG emissions reduction projects
Improve energy management to reduce GHG emissions and enhanced operational efficiency
Research, develop, and implement innovative technologies
Increase the use of renewable and nuclear energy, including partnering with utilities