The Steel Authority of India (SAIL) has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Australian mining giant BHP to investigate potential pathways for steel decarbonisation, particularly for blast furnace operations in India.

This partnership aims to identify strategies that could significantly reduce GHG emissions in the steel-making process.

Under the MOU, SAIL and BHP are examining various initiatives to commence the decarbonisation of SAIL’s blast furnace steel plants.

An initial study is under way to evaluate different approaches to curbing GHG emissions.

The workstreams being explored include the use of alternative reductants in blast furnaces, such as hydrogen and biochar.

The collaboration also seeks to enhance local research and development capabilities to facilitate the transition to lower-carbon steel production.

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SAIL chairman Amarendu Prakash said: “SAIL is looking forward to this collaboration with BHP in taking a step forward towards engaging in developing sustainable ways to produce steel.

“The emergent need to align the steel sector with climate commitments is non-negotiable. SAIL is committed to contributing towards tackling the issue of climate change through fostering an innovative future for the steel industry in India.”

The implementation of new technologies and emission abatement measures in blast furnaces is seen as crucial for advancing decarbonisation in both India’s steel industry and the global market.

BHP said the collaboration will promote sustainable steel-making technologies in India.

BHP chief commercial officer Rag Udd said: “BHP has a long-established relationship with SAIL, and we are pleased to be extending and strengthening this relationship to explore decarbonisation opportunities for the blast furnace route.

“We recognise that decarbonising this industry is a challenge that we cannot meet alone, and we must come together to leverage shared expertise and resources, to support the development of technologies and capability that could have the potential to create a real change in carbon emissions both now and in the longer term.”

Last month, BHP unveiled plans to trial energy transfer technology from Caterpillar as part of its efforts towards sustainable mining operations.