The social-ecological transformation in the economy is gathering pace and leading to drastic changes in industry, politics and society. This makes it all the more important to reposition the steel sector as an industry of the future - economically, socially and ecologically - in the comprehensive social transformation process. For the social-ecological transformation, the Supervisory Board of ArcelorMittal Bremen has signed a declaration to be able to shape the sustainable change together.
"A responsible approach to crises and change has been demonstrated time and again at the Bremen site in the past. The workforce is familiar with accepting challenges and responding to them productively. For us, it is important to actively exploit the opportunities of change for the company and for the employees. Our aim is to maintain the integrated site in Bremen and safeguard our ability to produce top-quality steel at competitive costs," says Dr. Dietmar Ringel, Chairman of the Supervisory Board of ArcelorMittal Bremen.
Climate-neutral steel by 2050
ArcelorMittal has set itself the goal of producing climate-neutral steel worldwide by 2050. Across Europe, 35% CO2 savings are planned by 2030. Some preparatory measures have already been implemented at the Bremen site as well. In practice, the switch to CO2-neutral production processes means an immediate change in production and process flows across the entire value chain - from energy generation and provision, steel production and processing, through to suppliers and service providers, such as maintenance, servicing and logistics.
"In addition to technical innovation, social design and the involvement of employees are of great importance for successful transformation. This is not just about the question of new qualification requirements, but also about transparency, ensuring that jobs are secure, that good work is retained and that colleagues receive the greatest possible support in the upcoming changes. As IG Metall, we are not only supporting this process, we are helping to drive it forward. In the steel industry in particular, there is only this one perspective and we will shape it together," explains Dr. Ute Buggeln, Vice Chair of the Supervisory Board and Managing Director of IG Metall Bremen.
"Safeguarding employment is a core social issue of change and requires thorough analysis and preparation for the employment-relevant changes brought about by the technical and company culture change process. Involving the workforce is key in the strategic implementation of social transformation. A comprehensive communication and participation concept is necessary," adds Michael Hehemann, Labor Director ArcelorMittal Bremen.
A prerequisite for the implementation of the comprehensive social transformation process is the EU approval of the requested subsidies for the technical transformation and the necessary investment decision by the Group.
