In this post we ask the question, is stainless steel environmentally friendly? Ever taken a moment to appreciate how stainless steel is woven into our everyday lives? From our trusty kitchen gadgets to the towering skyscrapers that paint the city skyline, it’s an unsung hero that most of us overlook.
Stainless steel is used in a variety of applications because it is strong, durable, and easy to clean. It is also relatively inexpensive, making it a popular choice for many products. What many also don’t consider is its impact on our world, or more specifically, the environment. Is it a plastic-level culprit or one of the good guys?
The verdict is yes, stainless steel gets the green stamp. But don’t just take our word for it. Here are the facts to help you decide.
The Life Cycle of Stainless Steel
Where does stainless steel come from, and where does it go once we’re done with it? Well, the first step in steel production is mining the raw materials — iron ore, chromium, and nickel — from the ground and then processing them to remove impurities.
Other elements that may be added to stainless steel for various qualities, such as nickel and molybdenum, are also mined and refined. Nickel, for example, is added to improve the strength and toughness of the alloy.
After the materials have been processed, they are melted and formed into sheets, bars, and tubes. The final product is then used for a variety of purposes until, in some cases, like our stainless steel serving bowls and platters, we’re done with them.
Is Stainless Steel Biodegradable?
Stainless steel, an exceptionally durable and long-lasting material, is not biodegradable. Unlike organic materials that break down naturally over time, stainless steel is resistant to decay.
But if you were to dump your old fridge in a landfill, it would start to slowly corrode as landfills have a mix of conditions that can cause gradual deterioration. Over thousands of years, the alloy would break down into its original metals.
That’s not necessarily a negative thing. Resistance to biodegradation is an asset as stainless steel is valued for its longevity and ability to withstand harsh environmental conditions. It is also a relatively stable material that does not release harmful chemicals into the environment.
These qualities make it an ideal material for recycling, which brings up our next point.
Recycling and Sustainability of Stainless Steel
You’ll be glad to know that stainless steel is one of the most recyclable materials on the planet and can be recycled endlessly without losing its quality. In fact, 60% of all stainless steel ever produced is still in use today. And, across the European Union, over 90% of end-of-life stainless steel is currently collected and recycled into new products.
There are several reasons why stainless steel is so recyclable. First, it is a very durable material that does not corrode or rust easily. This means that it can be recycled many times without losing its strength or integrity. Second, stainless steel is a homogeneous material, meaning that it has a consistent composition throughout. This makes it easy to recycle, as there is no need to separate different grades of stainless steel.
Economically-Speaking
In addition to the environmental benefits, recycling stainless steel is also economically beneficial. The stainless steel industry is a major employer, and recycling helps support this industry. Recycling stainless steel also reduces the cost of raw materials, which benefits businesses that use stainless steel.
Does the Production or Recycling of Stainless Steel Harm the Environment?
Mining iron ore and chromium, two of the main raw materials used to produce stainless steel, can damage ecosystems and pollute water sources. The refining and melting process also release harmful pollutants into the air, including sulfur dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and particulate matter.
However, technologies are developing that make the industry more efficient and less harmful to the environment. For example, new practices, such as the use of waterless mining techniques and the reclamation of mined land, are being developed to reduce its carbon footprint. Technologies are also being developed to capture and recycle the harmful pollutants released during production.
On the positive side, stainless steel recycling reduces the need to extract and process new materials. It also requires less energy than primary production, leading to lower greenhouse gas emissions.
Takeaway
So, is that stainless steel strainer you use to make your fruit purees environmentally-friendly? The creation of this useful alloy certainly requires a lot of resources and energy. On the flip side, its recyclability presents a win-win situation by conserving resources and reducing emissions. Now and more so in the future, technological innovations, responsible production practices, and a collective commitment to recycling make it a sustainable material.
