The continual development of new products and production processes is indispensable for voestalpine as it aims to stand out from the global competition and maintain its role as a technology leader. Innovation driven by R&D thus ensures the company’s success in the long term. The principle of sustainability is a key decision-making criterion for actions within the company.
voestalpine’s sustainability strategy covers the three pillars of the economy, environment, and society. Research & development establishes the link between climate and environmental protection and the development of sustainable products and services, and is therefore an important component in the cross-functions “Sustainable processes” and “Sustainable business activities” (see the chapter “Sustainability Strategy”).
Steel will continue to play a major role in the future and form the basis for sustainable solutions in infrastructure, the energy industry, and mobility. One focus of R&D activities is therefore further developments in steel production. Life cycle assessments, digitalization, increased efficiency, and expanded material and energy cycles help to achieve the goals of resource conservation and the circular economy.