Salzgitter AG (Salzgitter, Germany):

Fuhrmann H. J., Dr.-Eng., Prof., CEO, e-mail: pk@salzgitter-ag.de

Since the deep crisis 2008–2009 it was clear that its consequences will be weaker in the developed industrial countries. It can be explained by the fact that strong industrial base of economy makes the countries more crisisstable. The decision-makers in Brussels and Berlin should not leave aside the fact that German highly qualifi ed domestic steel industry with its innovative and environmentally friendly products helps to solve the problems of society rather than being a part of the problem itself. The plan to tighten the EU’s emissions trading scheme is the latest example. A dramatic cut of the emissions cap aims to artificially inflate the price of carbon certifi cates to at least Euro 25 per ton of CO₂ starting in 2021. In the meantime Salzgitter Flachstahl has invested into high-tech equipment to optimize its ironmaking process. It has put into practice the new pulverized coal injection (PCI) plant at blast furnace A and B in Salzgitter.