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IFC to support Aperam decarbonization efforts
The International Finance Corporation( IFC) and Aperam announce a financing package to support Aperam’ s decarbonization efforts through the production of sustainablyproduced charcoal, a renewable fuel for steel manufacturing.
IFC’ s € 250 million financing package includes up to € 150 million from IFC’ s own account and up to € 100 million in mobilized funds from other lenders, such as ING. This funding will bolster the sustainable forest management program of Aperam BioEnergia, Aperam’ s forestry and renewable energy subsidiary in Brazil. Aperam has fully replaced fossil coal with charcoal from FSC ®-certified forests in its
Brazilian production facilities, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.
The investment will support the acquisition of complementary eucalyptus plantations and the modernization of Aperam’ s charcoal-producing kilns with cleaner and more efficient technology, further enhancing the sustainability of Aperam BioEnergia operations. As a key innovation, this investment will help pioneer the company’ s commercial-scale production of bio-oil, captured from the waste of the charcoal production process.
“ We are pleased to establish this partnership with Aperam to foster innovative solutions in the
steel industry. This investment underscores IFC’ s commitment to sustainable development and environmental stewardship. By supporting such a project, IFC aims to provide innovative solutions that benefit both the economy and the environment,” said Olaf Schmidt, IFC regional industry director.
“ At Aperam, sustainability is at the core of our strategy, and this partnership with IFC reinforces our commitment to pioneering low carbon steel production. We are proud to work alongside IFC to accelerate the transformation of the steel sector towards a more sustainable future,” said Timoteo Di Maulo, Aperam’ s CEO.
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Green Steel World | Issue 17 | April 2025 33