Yamaguchi Heavy Industries joins SteelZero initiative

Yamaguchi Heavy Industries is first Japanese member of Climate Group’s SteelZero initiative  

Yamaguchi Heavy Industries has announced its deep commitment to green steel by joining the global SteelZero initiative. This is a landmark moment as the Tokyo-headquartered steel frame fabricator becomes the first Japanese business to join the initiative, led by international non-profit Climate Group.

The business has today become part of the global SteelZero network, committing to use 50% lower emission steel by 2030, setting a clear pathway to achieve 100% net zero steel by 2050, at the latest. It joined forces with leading businesses around the world, including Ørsted, Maersk, and Volvo Cars.

“It’s fantastic to welcome Yamaguchi Heavy Industries as SteelZero’s first Japanese member. The message is clear: the demand for green steel in Japan is growing. All businesses have a vital role to play in driving this market forward. Their leadership is key to giving steelmakers the confidence to invest in the transition. 

So, let’s not stop here. We’re committed to supporting businesses across Japan on their sustainability journey. Together we can create the market for green steel, support the country’s steelmakers, and help achieve Japan’s carbon neutrality goals.”

With international competition in the green steel transition growing, this is a critical moment for Japan’s steel industry. Yamaguchi Heavy Industries’ commitment signals the growing domestic demand and market for green steel, reinforcing the need for a stronger supply. Growing demand from businesses is key to driving Japan’s steel transition, giving Japan’s steelmakers the confidence to invest in clean production methods. 

Led by Climate Group, SteelZero brings together leading companies to speed up the transition to a global net zero steel industry. Climate Group leads several initiatives that are aimed at decarbonising entire systems including the global RE100 initiative, a network of the world’s most influential businesses committed to 100% renewable electricity. It has 89 members headquartered in Japan, including Asahi Group, Panasonic, and Sony.

"I am very honored to be able to join SteelZero. The issue of climate change is an urgent issue for us in the steel industry, and I am very encouraged to be able to promote decarbonization efforts together with leading companies around the world through our participation in SteelZero. Our company will contribute to the realization of a sustainable society through the use of innovative technologies and proactive investment."