This initiative builds on the Steel Standard Principles launched at COP28 and endorsed by over 60 organisations, addressing the urgent need for harmonised standards to accelerate the industry’s transition to net zero.

The collaboration between LESS and Responsible Steel is grounded in a shared vision for credible, science-based decarbonisation. Both organisations support the Steel Decarbonisation Scale, which incentivises emissions reductions across all steel production routes, including both primary and secondary methods. In June 2025, they jointly published a policy paper outlining this approach, emphasising the importance of verified data and

comprehensive emissions accounting that includes upstream supply chain impacts. To further strengthen this alignment, LESS and ResponsibleSteel will develop a conversion tool to enable equivalency claims, providing the platform for companies to leverage existing certifications under one standard to meet the requirements of the other. This effort will ensure greater transparency about decarbonisation progress, fostering trust among producers,

buyers, and policymakers.

Harmonised standards are essential for creating a level playing field in global steel markets. They enable fair benchmarking of steel products based on verified emissions data, accelerate innovation in sustainable steelmaking by reducing barriers to certification, and help prevent carbon leakage. By ensuring that progress in one region supports rather than undermines global decarbonisation efforts, this initiative will strengthen the integrity of low-emission steel standards worldwide.

Frederik Van de Velde, CEO of Arcelor Mittal Belgium and a member of both LESS and ResponsibleSteel, stated: "This partnership is a game-changer for our industry. By aligning our standards, we are not only strengthening LESS and ResponsibleSteel but also shaping a global consensus on what defines low-emission steel. ArcelorMittal is proud to support this initiative, which will accelerate our collective journey toward a sustainable steel industry."

Gunnar Groebler, CEO of Salzgitter AG and Chairman of the Board of LESS, added: "Harmonised standards are the backbone of meaningful change in steel production. This tool will empower companies to adopt sustainable practices with confidence while giving customers the transparency they need to make informed decisions. Mutual recognition between standards is key to building trust in the marketplace."

Annie Heaton, CEO of ResponsibleSteel, highlighted the global impact of the collaboration: "The markets urgently need a global framework to enable comparability in low-emission steel, and so facilitate policy and trade. ResponsibleSteel’s partnership with LESS paves the way to real interoperability between high quality climate standards – signalling strong alignment and consensus - a breakthrough development which will provide clarity for steel producers, buyers, investors and policymakers.”

The interoperability tool reflects the core values of LESS and Responsible Steel: transparency, accountability, and environmental stewardship. By streamlining the certification process, the project removes barriers for companies committed to reducing their carbon footprint, supporting the global transition to near-zero steel production.

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