Heavy industry
While the fossil fuel industry remains the best known driver of climate change, many other industries also contribute to the world’s growing emissions. ARIA brings sectoral expertise to bear on some of the more under-recognised contributors to climate change, including steel and petrochemicals, helping a wide range of stakeholders understand the obstacles and challenges these areas pose to a low-carbon transition.
Steel
The iron and steel industry is the second largest coal consuming industry, responsible for 7-8 percent of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. In order for steel to become the backbone of a sustainable and equitable world, a rapid transition to more sustainable forms of energy and a more efficient use of steel is needed.
ARIA’s work in the iron and steel space aims to foster the conditions for this transition. We research emerging issues, working with partners to achieve targeted impact. Focus areas for our iron and steel work include low-carbon technologies, metallurgical coal mining and processing, government subsidies, carbon accounting, and a just transition.
As the iron and steel industry increasingly discontinues high-carbon modes of production, ARIA’s research seeks to help policy makers and other stakeholders to navigate an increasingly complex decision landscape. By investigating key impediments to the transition, we help to hold powerful actors to account and strengthen the voices of civil society.
Petrochemicals
Petrochemicals are a major driver of hydrocarbon demand, with the industry planning significant expansion as demand for oil from the energy and transport sectors declines. This growth could undermine efforts to meet climate targets.
Increased petrochemical and plastic production presents environmental and health challenges. A just transition will require managing petrochemical demand while supporting workers and communities dependent on fossil fuels, ensuring a balance between environmental goals and economic resilience.
Chemicals from plastics pollute ecosystems, contaminate water, and pose risks such as human hormone disruption. Addressing these issues will require shifts in production practices and waste management strategies. Through research and analysis that focuses on the industry and policy landscape, ARIA provides clear insights that help civil society and journalists better understand the dynamics of the petrochemical sector.
