Biodiversity action plan for the steel industry

In preparation for future reporting requirements and to improve knowledge of biodiversity, AFRY carried out a risk assessment for a major European steel producer and used this as the basis for a biodiversity action plan.

The company, which has an active mine and several production sites in Europe and America, is already integrating a range of sustainable practices into its operations.

The risk assessment included an analysis of active sites, collecting data on potential impacts on biodiversity, such as the release of pollutants, consumption of resources, especially water, and loss of natural habitats. The specific ecological conditions of the areas studied were also taken into account.

The identified risks were then evaluated and prioritised. A distinction was made between acute risks requiring immediate action and chronic risks requiring long-term strategies. The assessment was based on scientific evidence, regulatory requirements and the concerns of stakeholders such as local communities and environmental organisations.

Based on the results of the risk assessment, a draft biodiversity action plan was developed, and then discussed and finalised in a workshop with various site and environmental managers. This included concrete measures to minimise risks and protect biodiversity. Examples included introducing environmentally friendly technologies, reducing energy and water consumption, implementing nature conservation programmes and restoring and connecting natural habitats.

The project also included a review of each site in regard to the Responsible Steel International Standard. The aim was to check whether the company was meeting the requirements of the standard, highlighting any red flags and identifying areas for improvement.