The global leader in sustainable stainless steel
Outokumpu's recycling rate is the highest in the steel industry, the best in the world: the share recycled material content is as high as 90%.Our main raw materials are recycled stainless and carbon steel. Increasing the recycled material content of our stainless steel is the most effective way for Outokumpu to reduce the environmental impact of its production processes. The carbon footprint of our stainless steel is less than 30% of the industry average.
Stainless steel life cycle
Stainless steel is well-suited to the circular economy, as it is made from recycled materials that are fully recyclable at the end of their life cycle. Recyclability is important from a life cycle perspective too. Outokumpu's stainless steel helps to reduce your own and your customer's carbon footprint.The strengths of stainless steel are obvious from a life cycle perspective. The properties of the material allow for lower life cycle costs and lower environmental impact.
Recyclability and durability
In a circular economy, recylability and durability are equally important. Stainless steel extends the life of products as stainless steel requires little maintenance, which is cost-effective for the benefit of the environment and society.Using recycled materials reduce the need to use virgin raw materials, the effects extend throughout the supply chain. For example, the Fraunhofer Institut has found that it has used tons of austenitic recycled steel to save 4.3 tons of carbon dioxide.
By-products from waste
Outokumpu's long-term goal is the production of waste-free stainless steel. We study the material flows of large-scale production with high quality so that we can improve their recycling, reuse or sale as by-products.One of the by-products of steel production is slag. Outokumpu has developed slag-based products for road construction, refractory and concrete products, and water treatment. The production of by-products from slag minerals reduces the amount of waste generated by steel, saves virgin raw materials and produces carbon dioxide emissions.