The environment is an issue corporations are caring more and more about, as evidenced by a new sustainable steel practice put in place by ArcelorMittal. The world's largest steel company is launching a pilot program at one of their plants that will convert byproducts that are environmentally harmful into a renewable energy source. In other words, ArcelorMittal's Ghent plant will be turning carbon monoxide (CO) and carbon dioxide (CO2) into ethanol.
The sustainable steel practice is possible due to a partnership with bioengineering firm LanzaTech as well as the use of a microbe that originates from the guts of rabbits. The customized clostridium microbe is used to turn polluting byproducts into bioethanol. This chemical can in turn be used to power things like cars and airplanes.
Construction is expected to begin in 2017. If it goes well, the program could be extended to their other plants.
Pollution-Converting Steel Plants
The Sustainable Steel Practice Generates Bioethanol From Bunnies
Trend Themes
1. Sustainable Steel Production - The implementation of sustainable practices in the steel industry creates potential for innovation in renewable energy sources.
2. Waste-to-energy Technology - The use of waste-to-energy technology in industrial processes creates opportunities for converting environmentally harmful byproducts into renewable energy sources.
3. Bioengineering Solutions for Pollution Reduction - Partnerships with bioengineering firms offer opportunities to use microbes for pollution reduction and renewable energy production.
Industry Implications
1. Steel Production - The sustainable steel industry has potential for growth through the implementation of renewable energy practices.
2. Bioengineering - The use of customized microbes for pollution reduction and renewable energy production has potential in various industries.
3. Renewable Energy - The conversion of industrial waste into renewable energy sources creates opportunities for growth in the renewable energy industry.