Brazil steel industry pushes low‑carbon production and sustainable fuels

During the São Paulo Climate Week (SPCW 2026), the Confederação Nacional da Indústria (CNI) hosted a round‑table on low‑carbon steel and sustainable fuels. João Irineu of Stellantis stressed that steel accounts for about 60 % of a vehicle’s mass, making decarbonisation essential for the automotive sector. Guilherme Abreu of ArcelorMittal highlighted a mix of existing and emerging solutions, including natural‑gas use, renewable charcoal, green hydrogen, electrolyzers, artificial intelligence and increased scrap recycling. Aula Ferrador of Saint‑Gobain presented a near‑50 % reduction in direct and indirect energy emissions through process efficiency and circular‑economy measures. A separate panel on sustainable fuels called for smart regulatory frameworks, especially for hard‑to‑electrify sectors such as aviation and maritime transport, and for overcoming international trade barriers. Participants agreed that public‑private cooperation, exemplified by programmes like Programa Mover, and the adoption of new technologies are critical for Brazil’s transition to a low‑carbon economy.