Recycling Industry Pushes for Regulated Scrap Supply to Support EAF Production

The group argues that strengthening domestic capacity is essential for long-term industrial resilience and sustainable growth.

SEATTLE (Scrap Monster): A coalition of UK steel producers and metal recycling industry leaders has issued a new report calling for urgent government action to strengthen the nation’s industrial supply chain and reduce dependence on overseas markets.

The report highlights the need for significant investment in domestic scrap processing infrastructure, including advanced shredding, screening, and refining technologies capable of producing Electric Arc Furnace (EAF)-grade scrap. While the coalition welcomed recent government steps to manage industrial energy costs, it stressed that major cost disparities between domestic and export markets continue to disadvantage UK processors and undermine competitiveness.

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According to the report, the UK generates approximately 10 million tonnes of scrap metal annually, yet over 80% is exported, only to return later as imported finished steel products. Industry leaders say retaining more scrap for UK-based steel production will support green steelmaking, reduce carbon emissions, and create high-value jobs.

The coalition is urging the government to establish national standards and definitions for EAF-grade scrap, modernize regulatory oversight with unified licensing and inspection systems, and include metal recovery recyclers in the British Industrial Competitiveness Scheme to reduce energy costs and accelerate technological transformation.

The group argues that strengthening domestic capacity is essential for long-term industrial resilience and sustainable growth.