The steel industry has a critical role in achieving EU's climate goals, contributing more than 5% of EU CO2 emissions. Beyond its direct impact, steel significantly influences the carbon footprint in numerous end products, including cars, washing machines, and wind turbines. Reducing emissions in these sectors depends on the availability and use of low-emission steel.
All members of LESS are committed to achieving near-zero steel production by 2050 at the latest, accelerating the availability of low-emission steel in the market, and enabling steel users to significantly reduce their carbon product footprint.
The Low Emission Steel Standard (LESS) was developed to serve as go-to standard and labelling of low- and near-zero emission steel. This approach is built on the principle that the path to near-zero steel should be transparent, comparable and incentivised, regardless of the production technology used. By stablishing clear benchmarks, the transition to sustainable steel can be both measurable and actionable, driving real progress to decarbonisation.
LESS: Supporting the Transformation of the Steel Industry Towards Near-Zero Steel
The Low Emission Steel Standard serves as a pivotal framework for advancing the decarbonisation of steel production and fostering a sustainable future for the industry.
For steel producers
LESS provides a structured and credible way to demonstrate progress in reducing emissions and transitioning towards near-zero steel production.
For steel users
LESS empowers informed purchasing decisions while supporting transparent reporting on climate and circular economic goals.
For policymakers
LESS establishes a reliable certification framework to facilitate the creation of lead markets for low- and near-zero emission steel within the EU.
Through a harmonised certification process, LESS ensures transparency and comparability across manufacturers and production routes, offering key insights into the industry´s progress toward near-zero steel.
By enhancing the visibility, acceptance and demand, LESS accelerates the decarbonisation of both the steel industry and its value chain.
Our Guiding Principles
High Ambition
LESS entails a clear cut definition of near-zero emission steel as the ultimate decarbonisation goal.
Market-friendly
LESS recognises stepwise transformation, allowing different categories of low-carbon steel production.
Driving change
LESS incentivises and rewards efforts toward near-zero steel production
Internationally compatible
LESS aligns with global norms and leading standards like the International Energy Agency (IEA).
Circular Economy
LESS ensures comparability across production routes, preventing distortions in global scrap markets.
Credibility
Certification based on consistent rules and established ISO standards. Accounting only if technically necessary and under clearly defined rules.