Global steel decarbonisation roadmaps: Near-zero by 2050

A valuable depth of knowledge has developed in the academic and grey literature as more voices have joined the conversation on decarbonising heavy industry. This paper analyses the current state of research through a critical review of global iron and steel decarbonisation roadmaps to 2050. The consensus among scenarios and modelled pathways is that the sector will achieve near-zero emissions, falling short of net-zero targets by around 10%. The key barriers identified include the availability of recycled scrap, limited availability of high-grade iron ore, de-risking technology investment, uncertain demand and cost gap, the availability, affordability, and reliability of renewable energy and hydrogen, skilled workforce shortages, weak policy signals, and the lack of certification and regulation for fair competition. The roadmaps focus on breakthrough technology pathways for steel producers, while emphasising the need for consistent improvements to yield, energy efficiency, secondary steelmaking, and carbon capture solutions. However, significant sustainability gaps exist in the largely carbon dioxide (CO2) focused plans, as discussion of social and environmental impacts from the raw mineral extraction, transport, use, and end-of-life stages of steelmaking are limited. Strategic international collaboration and shared responsibility are integral for decarbonising the steel value chain and achieving a just sustainability transition.