Ship Scrap Steel: A Key to Decarbonising European Steelmaking
A new report by NGO Shipbreaking Platform, Sandbag, and the University of Tuscia highlights the untapped potential of scrap steel from end-of-life ships in reducing carbon emissions in Europe’s steel industry. As the EU shifts to low-carbon electric arc furnace technology, high-quality ship steel offers a strategic resource to meet climate goals, strengthen industrial resilience, and advance a circular economy. Recycling ship steel can cut CO₂ emissions by up to 80% compared to virgin materials, while forecasts show up to 12 Mt of scrap steel annually from EU-owned vessels in the coming decade. The report calls for stronger policies on traceability, documentation, and safe recycling within EU yards to unlock this opportunity for both steel and construction sectors.