The legal establishment of ESTEP as an international non-profit organization under Belgian law was announced by Klaus Peters, Secretary General of the new organization, on 26 March 2018. Its mission is to engage stakeholders in collaborative actions and projects on technology and innovation, tackling EU-wide steel innovation challenges, in order to create a sustainable European steel industry. These challenges include digitization, fostering a low-carbon future for industry, the circular economy, and resource and energy efficiency.
The thirteen founding members are: EUROFER, ArcelorMittal Maizières Research, Dillinger, Outokumpu, Tenova, Rina Consulting – CSM, Swerea, Tata Steel Nederland Technology, Thyssenkrupp Steel Europe, Voestalpine Stahl, VDEh – BFI, Jernkontoret, and Salzgitter. ESTEP already has a track record of success, during which it has operated under the umbrella of the European Steel Association (EUROFER).
“We decided to be founding member because we believe that Tenova can bring a valid contribution to the attainment of the new organization’s strategic mission. Collaboration among multiple stakeholders creates synergies to further step up the efforts towards a sustainable EU steel industry”, stated Andrea Lovato, CEO.
The company’s commitment to support ESTEP in enhancing innovation and sustainability across the industry was confirmed by the appointment of Roberto Pancaldi, Tenova Metals CEO, to the Board of Directors – together with Axel Eggert (EUROFER), Carl De Maré (ArcelorMittal) and Eva Sundin (Swerea). “It’s an honor to be granted a seat in the Board. I really appreciate the activities that ESTEP has been carrying on throughout the years and I am confident that Tenova’s commitment and positive attitude at cooperating will be an asset to the organization”, said Mr. Pancaldi.
_{(Source: Tenova S.p.A.)}