Tata Steel - the UK’s largest steel producer - is to formally adopt Science Based Targets with respect to its programme of emission reductions and ‘net zero’ aspirations. The company is also set to commit its Port Talbot site in South Wales to become accredited to ‘ResponsibleSteel’ certification which is the first international standard to set out certifiable requirements for responsible processing and production of steel.

Tata Steel’s chief commercial officer, Anil Jhanji (pictured above), announced the decision during a keynote speech to industry peers last week at the UK Metals Expo exhibition which took place at the NEC Birmingham.

He said: “We are on a journey to decarbonise, to make a better world for the future. These commitments to SBTi and ResponsibleSteel are a clear statement to the world and to our customers that we mean business. This will include decarbonising every aspect of our business from our procurement of raw materials and energy, to our iron and steelmaking at Port Talbot and through our downstream coating, tube-making and further processing operations and logistics.

“We have always valued collaborations with our customers, suppliers and academic experts, as well as independent bodies and groups such as the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and ResponsibleSteel.“

Mr Jhanji added: “It is important we not only continue on our journey to reduce our emissions and reach ‘net zero’ carbon by 2045, but also to do so in a validated way, measuring our progress according to robust and agreed measurement processes. We firmly believe signing up to such partnerships will help us achieve those goals.”

ResponsibleSteel CEO Annie Heaton said: “We are delighted Port Talbot has announced its intention to join with industry leaders globally and aim for certification against the ResponsibleSteel Standard. This is an indication of the site’s commitment not only to decarbonisation but to the core interests of the local community.”