So, have we solved all the environmental problems in our line of business? Not at all. A great deal remains to be done, but SSAB is well on the way to steadily improving the environment. And as we solve some of the problems, we set new targets. Our demands and our knowledge are the constant driving forces. Some of the major issues we must work on are outlined below.

Carbon dioxide
The carbon dioxide issue is vital to the whole of the steel industry. The carbon dioxide emitted when steel products are in use will be gradually reduced due to the product development work we pursue. When producing steel from iron-ore, there is no alternative to the use of coal in the process. But we are participating in both national and international research aimed at optimizing the use of coal.

Residual products
Residual products such as slag, millscale, waste oils, etc. occur in all steel production. It is of strategic importance to steel companies to have sound and effective residual product management. SSAB considers that it would be possible in the future to put to use some of the residual products that must currently go to landfill. Increased recovery takes time and demands determined, long-term work in the whole of the organization.

Energy
Energy is always of topical interest. Will more nuclear power stations be decommissioned in Sweden? What will be the effect on Swedish industry and on SSAB? At SSAB Oxelösund AB, we generate our own electrical energy from the energy-rich gases leaving the metallurgical processes. We are about 30 percent self-sufficient in the electricity we use, which is equivalent to the annual energy consumption of more than 7000 households. Energy optimization could present golden opportunities for saving energy and money.

If you have any questions do not hesitate to get in touch with us at klas.lundbergh@ssab.com