How can we deliver the steel the world needs — without costing the earth?
Steel is everywhere — from wind turbines and washing machines to skyscrapers and electric vehicles. In episode 3 of the Mined Shift podcast, host Sam Pauly is joined by Sean Parsons, Director of External Relations at Ampeak Energy and Stuart Hayton, Divisional VP of Comminution and MD Netherlands at Weir. Together, they unpack the shift to green steel: what it means, why it matters, and what it will take to scale up production sustainably.
Discover why the journey to green steel is so complex — from the need for higher grade iron ore and new technologies, to the realities of cost, collaboration and supply chain transformation. Learn how innovation, partnerships and a change in mindset can accelerate progress, and why scaling up and cleaning up steel production is critical for the energy transition.
Did you know?
- About 50%1 of all steel produced goes into construction. The rest is used in vehicles, industry, and everyday products like appliances and household goods.
- Two-thirds of steel is made from iron ore (primary steel) while one-third comes from recycling scrap metal.2
- Making steel and iron uses a lot of energy — about one-fifth of all energy used by industries.3
- Steel production accounts for around 25%4 of industrial carbon emissions globally.
- Green steel can cut emissions by up to 90%5 compared to traditional methods.
- Europe is leading the way, with demand for green steel expected to grow by more than 70% in the next five years6.
As the demand for green steel accelerates, real progress depends on practical choices from industry, government and consumers. This episode cuts through the noise — showing what’s working, what’s holding us back, and what can be done today to move things forward. If you want a straightforward take from industry leaders on the real challenges and opportunities for green steel, tune in and see how we’re moving towards a lower-carbon future, one decision at a time.
Footnotes:
1. Steel applications, World Steel Association, 2024
2. World steel recycling in figures, Bureau of International Recycling, 2024
3. Manufacturing energy consumption survey: steel industry analysis brief, US Energy information Administration
4. Steel industry emissions worldwide, Springer, Discover Sustainability, 2025
5. Green steel economics, Global Efficiency Intelligence, TransitionAsia, Solutions for Our Climate, 2024
6. Europe green steel market, Fortune Business Insights, 2023
Abmec