Steel is everywhere—in our buildings, cars, appliances, bridges, and even wind turbines. But what many don’t realize is that traditional steel production is one of the largest industrial sources of carbon emissions. As climate concerns rise, a new solution is emerging green steel.
Green steel is exactly what it sounds like—steel made using environmentally friendly methods. Instead of relying on coal and coke to produce heat and remove oxygen from iron ore, green steel uses renewable electricity and green hydrogen. The result? The same strong steel, but with a dramatically smaller carbon footprint.
As industries and governments race to decarbonize, the global green steel market is gaining serious traction. Let’s explore how it works, why it matters, and what’s driving its impressive growth.
Green steel is produced using low-carbon technologies such as hydrogen-based reduction or electric arc furnaces powered by renewable energy. Unlike conventional steel manufacturing, which relies heavily on coal, green steel drastically reduces CO₂ emissions. The result? A more sustainable future without compromising strength or utility.
The global green steel market is gaining major traction. Valued at $7.4 billion in 2024, it’s projected to reach a whopping $19.4 billion by 2029—growing at an impressive 21.4% CAGR. This growth reflects not just technological innovation, but also the world’s urgent push toward sustainability in heavy industry.
Governments and corporations are pledging to achieve net-zero emissions, and steelmakers are under growing pressure to decarbonize. Green steel helps companies meet their climate goals and enhance their ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) scores, which are key for attracting investment.
Major industries like automotive, infrastructure, and real estate are shifting to eco-friendly materials. Electric vehicle (EV) makers, for instance, are looking to cut emissions not just on the road but also in their supply chains. Green steel is becoming a strategic priority.
From Europe’s Green Deal to U.S. climate policies, public funding is flowing into sustainable manufacturing. Subsidies, tax breaks, and R&D grants are accelerating the transition to green steel across the globe.