Environment

Reducing consumption

At BIRN , we want to show responsibility by minimising our negative impact on the environment. We are therefore working proactively to reduce our energy consumption and increase our recycling of natural resources and surplus heat, and we are investigating how we can contribute positively to our surroundings. 

As a result of energy-intensive processes at high temperatures and large consumption of raw materials, the world’s iron and steel production accounts for a large share of global emissions of greenhouse gases. As one of the largest foundry groups in Northern Europe, and thus an emitter of greenhouse gases, we are committed to continuing our work to reduce emissions connected with our operations and to share our results with stakeholders.

Mapping of carbon emissions

BIRN has spent much of 2024 producing the double materiality analysis. The analysis gives us a 360-degree view of the entire group in relation to the impact we have on the outside world, and how external factors impact us as a group. It’s a powerful starting point for defining concrete goals for how we can minimise our negative impact on the climate and environment, and identifying focus areas that are beyond our own control but which we need to take into account in our business operations.

In relation to the climate and environment, it is particularly BIRNs consumption of electricity, natural gas and resources and our production waste that have a significant impact on our surroundings, making these also the key areas to work with to minimise negative impacts.

Energy consumption

Electricity consumption is rising throughout society, and one way to cater to the increased demand is to improve the balance between demand and production. This applies in particular to the power we use for melting, holding furnaces, casting and the machining of cast iron.