New study shows deep emission cuts possible with cleaner energy and recycled steel
London, 17 February 2026 – The UK’s metals recycling industry could cut its direct carbon emissions by as much as 93 percent by 2050, according to a new industry-backed study. The findings highlight how cleaner energy use, better infrastructure, and wider adoption of recycled steel can significantly reduce the sector’s environmental impact while supporting long-term sustainability goals.
The study, titled A Carbon Footprint Assessment, was commissioned by the British Metals Recycling Association and carried out by Tunley Environmental. It is the first comprehensive analysis of carbon emissions across the UK metals recycling industry and aims to align the sector with the country’s legally binding net-zero targets.
In simple terms, the report explains how emissions from daily operations, such as fuel use and electricity consumption, can be sharply reduced. These are known as Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions. The assessment also looks at Scope 3 emissions, which include indirect emissions from activities like steel smelting and refining carried out by third parties.
One of the key findings shows that simply switching to steel produced using electric arc furnaces could lower the industry’s overall emissions footprint by 38 percent. When combined with cleaner energy, improved efficiency, and better recycling practices, total emissions across the value chain could fall by nearly 70 percent.
The BMRA has outlined these findings in a new roadmap titled Recycling Today for a Greener Tomorrow, which sets out how the industry can move steadily toward net zero. The roadmap also identifies practical steps where policy support and investment could accelerate progress.
To achieve these goals, the association has highlighted five priority areas. These include making metals recycling companies eligible for industrial competitiveness schemes, encouraging wider use of biofuels through reduced fuel duties, and providing affordable financing for power and grid upgrades. The roadmap also calls for smarter regulations that reward recyclability and recycled content, along with science-based standards such as those developed by the Global Steel Climate Council.
Industry leaders say the findings confirm that metals recycling already plays a vital role in reducing emissions and conserving resources. The study also shows how much further the sector can go with the right mix of technology, collaboration, and investment.
Alongside policy changes, innovation in recycling technology remains critical. Companies such as Engineered Recycling Systems are contributing through high-efficiency recovery solutions that improve the extraction of copper, aluminum, and precious metals from scrap, helping maximize material reuse and reduce waste.
The roadmap emphasizes that metals recycling is central to the UK’s circular economy. By keeping valuable materials in use for longer and cutting dependence on raw extraction, the industry can reduce emissions while supporting manufacturing and infrastructure needs.
As the push for net zero gathers pace, the metals recycling sector is positioning itself as a key enabler of low-carbon growth. With clear data, achievable targets, and growing momentum, the industry believes it can help make the UK a global leader in net-zero recycled metals.
