ArcelorMittal enhances further environmental investments in Differdange

ArcelorMittal has announced further environmental improvements at its Differdange facilities in Luxembourg. Following the installation of a dust extraction system earlier this year, which aims to reduce emissions by 80%, the company has now completed the relocation of its black slag pits, marking a second significant investment in environmental sustainability.

Previously, the black slag pits were located near residential areas, away from the steelworks. ArcelorMittal identified an unused hall closer to the furnace as a more suitable location for the pits. After three months of successful testing, the hall was upgraded to safely handle liquid slag. This project included major developments such as the construction of a new road, expanding storage space, and insulating the building to limit external impact, all while maintaining full production operations.

The relocation has provided several environmental and operational benefits. By moving the slag pits indoors, dust emissions have noticeably decreased, with local residents already seeing improvements in air quality. The hall also acts as a sound barrier, reducing noise pollution by 7 decibels. Moreover, the new setup has enhanced worker safety by nearly eliminating the risk of explosions caused by contact between liquid slag and rainwater, and improving the efficiency of slag transport within the site.

This initiative, like the dust extraction project, is fully focused on environmental impact and received 30% financial support from the Luxembourg government.

Pierre Jacobs, CEO of ArcelorMittal Long Products Luxembourg, emphasized the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility: “The rehabilitation of the hall, alongside the new dust removal system, demonstrates ArcelorMittal’s dedication to improving the quality of life for the local community and meeting the expectations of our stakeholders. These investments reflect our ongoing efforts to find innovative, tailored solutions that align with both internal and external needs.”

With these projects, ArcelorMittal is reinforcing its focus on sustainability and operational safety, while striving to reduce its environmental footprint in Luxembourg.

Source and Photo: ArcelorMittal Luxembourg