The circular economy concept has gained significant attention globally as a sustainable approach to resource management. In Indonesia, the steel industry plays a crucial role in fostering circularity and contributing to a more sustainable future. According to a BIS Research study, the global market for sustainable steel is anticipated to increase from $327.3 billion in 2021 to $795.8 billion in 2031, at a CAGR of 8.97% from 2022 to 2031. Through its characteristic, recyclability, and innovative practices, steel offers tremendous opportunities for promoting circularity and reducing environmental impact.
Steel Recycling and Resource Efficiency
Steel is inherently recyclable, making it a valuable material in the circular economy. In Indonesia, the steel industry has made considerable strides in recycling and resource efficiency. According to data from the Indonesian Iron and Steel Industry Association (IISIA), the country recycled approximately 8.6 million metric tons of steel in 2020, accounting for a significant portion of the total steel consumed. This recycling effort resulted in substantial resource savings, reduced energy consumption, and lower greenhouse gas emissions.
In recent years, steel producers in Indonesia have embraced sustainable production techniques to minimize environmental impact. Advanced technologies, such as electric arc furnaces and energy-efficient processes, are being adopted to reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption during steel manufacturing. Indonesia’s steel producers have started to invest in energy-efficient technologies which lead to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions per ton of steel produced.
For instance, Indonesia’s largest private steel manufacturer utilizes the waste from steel production (steel slag) to be used as a green aggregate. This green aggregate innovation is part of the zero waste philosophy which encourages people to be wise in maximizing resources so that products can be reused. This will form a circular economy, an environmentally friendly system that maintains material values for repeated use.
Steel in Construction and Infrastructure
The construction sector in Indonesia is a major consumer of steel, providing ample opportunities to promote circularity. Steel’s durability, strength, and recyclability make it an ideal choice for sustainable construction and infrastructure projects. By adopting circular design principles, such as modular construction and the use of prefabricated steel components, waste generation can be minimized, and materials can be easily repurposed or recycled. This approach not only reduces environmental impact but also enhances the longevity and resilience of buildings and infrastructure.
Steel in Automotive and Manufacturing
The automotive and manufacturing industries in Indonesia also benefit from the circularity of steel. As the country’s automotive sector continues to grow, manufacturers are increasingly incorporating lightweight and high-strength steel alloys. These materials enhance fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and improve vehicle recyclability at the end of their life cycle. Moreover, steel’s inherent properties make it highly suitable for various manufacturing applications, enabling the efficient utilization of resources and supporting circular manufacturing practices.
Collaboration between stakeholders is crucial to accelerate the transition towards a circular economy. In Indonesia, industry associations, government agencies, and steel producers are actively engaged in promoting circularity. IISIA, for instance, plays a pivotal role in driving sustainable practices, fostering collaboration, and raising awareness about the importance of the circular economy within the steel industry. Additionally, initiatives such as steel scrap collection campaigns and the establishment of recycling infrastructure have further bolstered circularity efforts.
The steel industry in Indonesia is poised to play a significant role in advancing the circular economy. Through effective recycling, sustainable production techniques, and its versatility in various sectors, steel offers immense potential for promoting resource efficiency, reducing waste, and minimizing environmental impact. As the country continues to prioritize sustainability and circularity, it is essential to strengthen the collaboration among stakeholders, invest in infrastructure for steel recycling, and encourage the adoption of circular design principles. With these concerted efforts, the steel industry in Indonesia can catalyze sustainable development and contribute to a more circular and resilient economy.