EU steel sector calls for emissions‑trade reform while metal recycling gains momentum in Germany

Germany is increasing its focus on metal recycling as demand for raw materials rises and climate targets tighten. Scrap collection and processing are seen as key to securing copper, aluminium, stainless steel, brass and steel for the country's strong manufacturing base, reducing reliance on primary extraction and cutting energy use.

At the same time, major European steel and chemical producers – ArcelorMittal, thyssenkrupp Steel, voestalpine and BASF – are urging the European Union to reform the Emissions Trading System (EU‑ETS). They ask for a pause on additional cost increases, retention of current free allocation levels, and stronger support for industrial decarbonisation projects such as affordable green hydrogen, low‑carbon electricity and CO₂ capture. Thyssenkrupp Steel CEO Marie Jaroni warned that “the ETS needs a reality check” to avoid undermining competitiveness and ongoing transformation.

Both developments highlight the pressure on Europe’s metal sector to balance resource efficiency, climate goals and economic viability.