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The state of the European steel transition

As the European Commission unveils its Steel and Metals Action Plan (SMAP), Opportunity Green joins 28 NGOs endorsing a new report advocating for a green steel transition in Europe.

With over 50% of EU steel production still dependent on coal-based blast furnace technology – and many of these furnaces approaching retirement before 2035 – the sector faces a critical choice: reinvest in outdated coal-based infrastructure, locking in decades more of fossil-fuel dependence, or accelerate the shift to clean, near-zero emissions alternatives.

Europe has a narrow window for action. EU policymakers and steelmakers must act now to drive the transition away from coal-based steelmaking. Doing so would boost industrial competitiveness and create secure jobs for over two million workers.

The report, led by E3G and Beyond Fossil Fuels, aims to inform the policy debate and guide the transition towards a more sustainable steel industry, one that can meet Europe's climate goals while safeguarding this vital economic sector.

We are urging the EU steel industry to:

• Phase out coal-based blast furnaces.

• Scale up green hydrogen and renewable-powered production.

• Strengthen circularity measures.

• Ensure a just transition encompassing social protection for the industry’s workers.

Read the full report below.