Blastr steel mill project: Positive Environmental Impact Assessment

The proposed low-emission steel plant by Blastr Green Steel has taken a step forward following the issuance of a reasoned conclusion from the Uusimaa Centre for Economic Development, Transport and the Environment (ELY Center) on its Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA).

The EIA reasoned conclusion marks the completion of a critical phase in the project's development and enables it to move into the permitting stage. It will also support the municipality of Inkoo in advancing its ongoing zoning work related to the project site.

According to Blastr, the conclusion lays the groundwork for future environmental permitting, forming part of the broader decision-making process required ahead of a final investment decision.

“This has been a significant undertaking, involving thorough and long-term preparation,” said Antti Kaikkonen, Blastr’s Country Manager for Finland. “Over two years of work and collaboration among various stakeholders and experts have brought us to this point.”

The EIA process is designed to assess the potential environmental impacts of major industrial projects and explore ways to minimize negative effects. Blastr’s planned facility in Inkoo is intended to produce steel using hydrogen instead of coal, aiming to substantially cut carbon dioxide emissions associated with traditional steelmaking. The plant would use raw materials processed with clean energy sources, aligning with international climate objectives.

In addition to its environmental ambitions, the project is anticipated to bring economic benefits to the Inkoo area and the wider Western Uusimaa region through job creation and investment.

Kaikkonen acknowledged that, despite the sustainability goals, industrial development inevitably carries some environmental footprint. “All industrial activity generates some environmental impacts, even when the projects are critical for the clean transition,” he noted.

The project now moves into the next phase, with permitting procedures expected to continue in collaboration with relevant authorities and stakeholders.#

Source and Photo: Blastr