jobs and the economy, as well as the safety of US infrastructure and sustainability of the planet. Take advantage of green manufacturing to decrease carbon footprints Steel can be endlessly recycled without losing its strength and is the only construction material that can make that claim. The use of Electric Arc Furnaces (EAFs) significantly lowers the carbon dioxide emissions intensity of the steel manufacturing process, compared to traditional blast furnaces and basic oxygen furnaces (BOF). It is the process most commonly used in the US Whereas 70.6 percent of US steel is produced using EAFs, only 26.3 percent of global steel production is produced this way. When the US allows imported products from countries like China, the environment suffers on a global level. China alone accounts for about half of the entire world's steel supply. At the very least, these products should not be imported until Global Warming Potential (GWP) figures are met and a chain of custody for the steel can be proven and adhered to. Several domestic steel manufacturers have made, and are continuing to make, substantial investments into green steel manufacturing. These US manufacturers are fighting the notorious and inaccurate reputation of the old steel mill’s effect on the environment with innovative processes to ensure they are decreasing their carbon footprints.
Significant improvements have been made, though the US steel industry has received little credit or attention for these efforts. Policies, like the Biden administration’s announcement to advance a cleaner industrial sector and reduce emissions, are necessary to combat climate change. US-based steel suppliers welcome the opportunity to participate in these programs, however, these policies will not have a significant impact until China, especially, is held accountable for its carbon emissions by the US decreasing the amount of imported steel it receives. American-based steel manufacturers play a key role in the economic and environmental health of the country, as well as the strength of its buildings. By upholding tariffs–and pushing for stronger controls and penalties for those who do not comply–America's steel mills can continue to operate cleanly and efficiently, provide millions of Americans jobs, and continue to be a pillar of strength for both the nation’s economy and its infrastructure.
Dale L. Crawford is the Executive Director and Director of Conduit for the Steel Tube Institute. Dale is responsible for the organization’s activities to promote the growth and competitiveness of steel pipe and tubular products throughout North America. In addition to these responsibilities, he is in charge of activities, strategies, and programs of the Steel Tube Institute’s Conduit Section, which consists of North America’s leading steel conduit manufacturers. Dale is a Certified LEED Green Associate (LEED GA) by the US Green Building Council.
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