[ INTERVIEW ]
Mr . Erkkilä then shared another anecdote from Outokumpu ’ s Kemi mine in Finland , the only chromium mine within the European Union . “ We have given local birdwatchers access to the mine because of the wide variety of exotic birds that inhabit the area . They have even developed a bird catalog documenting the species observed on the site ,” he noted proudly .
These stories are more than just feel-good moments — they reflect a hopeful future for the steel industry , a future where environmental stewardship and industrial progress go hand in hand . Outokumpu ’ s initiatives demonstrate the potential to not only secure the future of steel but to create a more sustainable future for all .
This commitment to sustainability was at the heart of my discussion with Mr . Erkkilä . Our conversation revolved around Outokumpu ’ s recent white paper , which outlines five critical shifts necessary to accelerate the green transition and drive the much-needed industrial transformation . The report makes it clear : the steel industry must evolve , pushing beyond mere carbon reduction . A stable and long-term regulatory environment , improved circularity in the value chain , and a focus on strategic partnerships are all essential to achieving these goals .
Mr . Juha Erkkilä , VP – Market Strategy & Development at Outokumpu . Photo : Outokumpu Corporation / Tomi Parkkonen
The study sought to provide a comprehensive view of the industry ’ s future , driven by increasing demand for steel in infrastructure supporting the green transition , mobility , urbanization , and population growth . “ A sustainable transformation is needed — one that involves the entire industry and society as a whole . Focusing on a single company ’ s actions offers only a limited view , which is why we partnered externally ,” Mr . Erkkilä explained .
Kairos Future , renowned for its work in various industries , conducted the research using C-level interviews , data analysis , AI , and industry reports to deliver a thorough and insightful study .
The changing world
Mr . Erkkilä guided us through the five critical shifts identified in the white paper , starting with the first : focusing on carbon . “ Shift one is all about decarbonization , which is the issue everyone is talking about right now ,” he explained . “ We need to drastically cut greenhouse gas emissions , and for the steel industry as a whole , this means a 90 % reduction by 2050 . That is an enormous challenge , and it is where Outokumpu is focusing much of its efforts .”
Outokumpu has been committed to Science Based Targets initiatives ( SBTI ) for quite some time . In fact , the company was among the first hundred businesses to join the initiative , and now , more than 9,000 companies globally are involved . “ It is encouraging to see this level of engagement in the program , which I believe has the potential to integrate the entire value chain — something that is crucial for this transition ,” he noted .
Green Steel World | Issue 15 | November 2024 23