Corporate
responsibility
Management Statement on Sustainability
Sustainable and responsible behavior is firmly embedded in the SHS Group and is a traditional, core element of corporate policy. Saarstahl aims to manufacture high-quality steel products using state-of-the-art and sustainable methods. In doing so, we keep our focus on our responsibility to current and future generations and for the environment. Based on what has been achieved so far, and with a view to ensuring a livable future for all, we are continuously identifying further potential for improvement and redefining ambitious targets.
Circular Economy
We are focusing a great deal of attention on the circular economy at all our sites. The aim is to establish closed material cycles according to circular economy principles, and to maintain them sustainably. Our product itself plays an important role here, as steel is a highly durable material that can be recycled almost infinitely. Our sustainability strategy is however also characterized by the way we deal with the “by-products” that arise during iron and steel production. Iron and steel slags are marketed as quality-monitored products or reused internally as raw materials – and thus contribute significantly to conserving resources as a substitute for raw materials.
Sustainable Procurement
A key element of our sustainability strategy: economic success mustn’t be achieved at the expense of our fellow human beings or the environment, or through unfair, unlawful business practices. We expect our business partners to uphold the same standards that we impose on ourselves. We work with suppliers and service providers who also recognize their responsibility towards their employees, the companies concerned, and their impact on the environment. We have further developed our human rights strategy and supply chain due diligence management – and will continue to do so – in line with the German Supply Chain Due Diligence Act (LkSG), among other standards.
Energy Efficiency
Optimizing steel production requires a secure and economical energy supply as well as effective and environmentally compatible use of energy. The basic philosophy of Saarstahl AG is therefore geared toward continuously improving energy efficiency and the energy efficiency of our systems and processes. This is aimed at reducing our specific energy consumption and conserving resources long term.
Efficient energy use
One of the primary aims of efficient energy use is making maximum use of process gases generated during steel production. The energy network system of SHS Group steelmaking sites also fosters the comprehensive use of blast furnace gases. This avoids using fossil fuels for electricity generation beyond the balance limit.
Energy management systems and energy efficiency programs
The corporate sites have been certified in accordance with DIN EN ISO 50001 since 2011 and must demonstrate continuous improvements in their energy-related key performance indicators and processes. In addition to the legal requirements, there are economic and environmental reasons for implementing energy efficiency measures. Site-specific cost-cutting programs have therefore been introduced that focus primarily on reducing energy consumption. In 2023, for example, a new Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) system that uses process heat was installed at the Neunkirchen site.