Steel Product EPDs in Australia: Where are we?
Steel is a fundamental material in Australian building, infrastructure, and manufacturing. Although Australia has a well-developed steel industry, there remains a gap between local production and final consumption, necessitating significant imports. In 2023, Australia’s net import of steel products exceeded 1 million tonnes, accounting for approximately 15% of total consumption. While steel plays an essential role in modern construction, it is also a major contributor to embodied carbon in the built environment. This makes accurate carbon measurement of steel products—especially imported materials—a crucial aspect of sustainable construction practices in Australia. Without reliable data, project teams may struggle to assess and mitigate the environmental impact of their material choices.