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Net-Zero by 2050

Nucor is Leading Sustainable Steelmaking in North America

Net-Zero by 2050

We are committed to a net-zero 2050 science-based greenhouse gas (GHG) target as defined by the Global Steel Climate Council’s (GSCC) “Steel Climate Standard”, an ambitious standard consistent with the International Energy Agency Net-Zero by 2050: A Roadmap for the Global Energy System glidepath for the industry (IEA NZE).

 The net-zero 2050 target will result in a GHG intensity of 116 kg CO2 equivalent per metric ton of steel, including Scopes 1, 2 and 3 emissions as defined by GSCC. The interim 2030 science-based GHG reduction target is 975 kg CO2 equivalent per metric ton of steel, including Scopes 1, 2 and 3 emissions as defined by GSCC. 

Nucor will continue to lead the industry in greenhouse gas (GHG) transparency. Our disclosures will remain third-party verified, and we will openly communicate our plans and the actions required to achieve our goals. 

Nucor 2030 Reduction Strategy

Nucor’s Pathway to Net-Zero by 2050

Low Carbon Electricity

  • Nucor will continue to reduce the consumption of electricity generated with fossil fuels.
  • Through utility partnerships, the promotion of renewables, the exploration of nuclear energy alternatives and power purchase agreements, we will reduce fossil fuel-based electricity usage.

Near-Zero GHG Iron Making

  • Nucor utilizes virgin iron at some of its steel mills, including direct reduced iron (DRI) produced at two locations.
  • We are also implementing projects such as low copper shred, which allows us to use fewer virgin iron units.
  • We will utilize carbon sequestration to reduce DRI-embodied carbon at our plant in Louisiana.
  • We are actively investing in alternative near-zero ironmaking technologies, including Electra and HIsarna. HIsarna, when combined with carbon sequestration, results in near-zero GHG emissions.
green flame icon representing hot rolled steel

Replacement of Injection & Charge Carbon and Natural Gas

  • Nucor is implementing technologies to reduce our consumption of injection and charge carbon.
  • We are also pursuing a series of projects that will reduce natural gas usage or replace process gas with low- or no-carbon technologies.
  • We are also pursuing a series of projects that will reduce natural gas usage or replace process gas with low- or no-carbon technologies.