Air quality

Air protection is one of our key environmental priorities. At Železiarne Podbrezová, we actively reduce emissions of particulate matter and gases through the use of low-emission technologies and modern filtration systems. We focus on protecting air quality in the region to the greatest possible extent while fully complying with stringent European environmental standards.

Čo to znamená v praxi

Ecological and Economic Approach

Our strategy combines technical excellence with environmental responsibility. We produce high-quality steel with minimal impact on air quality – efficiently, cleanly, and in line with the EU’s climate objectives.

… cleaner technology

significantly lower emissions

At Železiarne Podbrezová, we have long placed strong emphasis on environmentally responsible production. Our Electric Arc Furnace (EAF) is the technological core of low-emission steel production. Compared to traditional blast furnaces, it generates significantly lower emissions of:

particulate matter (PM),
nitrogen oxides (NOx),
sulphur oxides (SOx).

Thanks to these parameters, we rank among the cleanest steel producers in Europe, and our approach is fully aligned with the EU’s climate objectives as well as ESG requirements in the Environmental (E) pillar.

… best available filtration technology

BAT – Best Available Techniques

Every step of our steel production process is monitored with regard to its environmental impact. The steel plant is therefore equipped with state-of-the-art filtration systems that comply with BAT standards – Best Available Techniquesunder European legislation. The dust extraction and flue gas filtration system captures almost all particulate matter and prevents its release into the atmosphere. In this way:

we minimise direct emissions,
ensure clean working conditions and surroundings,
and protect the health of both our employees and the local population.

The entire filtration process is continuously monitored and regularly modernised to ensure not only compliance with current legislation, but also preparedness for future regulatory requirements.

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… waste heat instead of solid fuels

Coal-free production, clean heat only

In our production process, we use only a minimal amount of solid fuels (coal, coke), which are the main sources of CO₂ and other pollutants in conventional steelmaking. Instead, we utilise heat generated during steel production — which would otherwise be lost — and convert it into an energy source for heating:

administrative and production facilities,
a swimming pool for employees and the public,
sports facilities, including a football pitch.

This approach increases the overall energy efficiency of our operations while simultaneously reducing the volume of emissions that would otherwise be generated by external heating sources. At the same time, it represents a concrete example of circular energy management, where heat is not waste, but an opportunity.