Global recycling industry warns against “Stepped Scale” methodology

The Bureau of International Recycling (BIR) emphasized that the methodology applies double standards and serves to label high-emission production processes as “green steel.”

Steel production accounts for approximately 8% of global energy sector emissions and around 30% of industrial emissions. Although there is no universally accepted definition of “green steel,” it is generally understood to refer to steel produced with low or near-zero carbon emissions.

Representing more than 30,000 companies across 72 countries, BIR stated that the “Stepped Scale” methodology is not scientifically reliable. By adjusting emission thresholds based on scrap steel usage, the methodology allows facilities with lower scrap input to emit more CO₂ while still being classified as “green steel.” This effectively rewards carbon-intensive production while penalizing the use of recycled materials.

BIR noted that the methodology weakens the link between environmental performance and sustainability claims, putting at risk the principles of the circular economy and resource efficiency. The organization warned that this approach could mislead policymakers, investors, and end-users, and undermine trust in green steel classifications.

The statement stressed that all claims suggesting the “Stepped Scale” methodology promotes the use of recycled steel are false and misleading. On the contrary, increasing emission thresholds through adjustment factors diminishes the environmental benefits of recycled content.

BIR reaffirmed its full support for the decarbonization of the steel sector, highlighting the importance of both transforming primary steel production and properly recognizing the role of recycled scrap. It emphasized that green steel classifications should be based on a transparent and scientifically sound system that ensures emissions data are accurate and comparable.

The organization called on policymakers and industry stakeholders to establish a uniform, process-neutral standard to ensure fair competition in the global steel sector. It also underlined that a methodology that does not support recycling should not lead to misunderstandings.

BIR concluded by stating its readiness to contribute to the development of a scientifically robust, environmentally credible, and policy-aligned framework for green steel.