The Role of Steel Beams in Sustainable Engineering

Sustainability is not a want, but a need. It is an engineer’s responsibility to shape the world into a better place. Inclusion of sustainable materials and practices should be at the heart of modern engineering. If you are in the construction industry, you would know the importance of structural steel. It is irreplaceable in the pursuit of reducing carbon footprint while creating strong, durable, sturdy structures. Scarboro Steel Works Inc. in Scarborough, Ontario, supplies the best steel beams. In this blog, we aim to educate you regarding the inextricable role of steel beams in sustainable engineering.

 

Just How Sustainable Are Steel Beams?

 

Lower Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Conventional steel manufacturing methods relied heavily on coal-powered furnaces. This contributed to greenhouse emissions. However, things are not as bleak as before. Modern steel manufacturing practices have significantly reduced greenhouse emissions. This can be attributed to the use of electric arc furnaces powered by sustainable energy. The implementation of CCUS - Carbon Capture, Utilization, and Storage practices also keep greenhouse emissions in check.

 

Near-100% Recyclability

The recyclability of structural steel is unmatched. First, the strength and durability ensure that buildings made of steel last for decades. Second, even when other buildings are past their lifespan, largely due to deterioration of construction materials and safety code mandates, the steel beams can be almost entirely salvaged. This means a lesser need for new raw materials and the elimination of unchecked landfills. 

 

No Chemical Treatments

Steel beams are immune to pests and decay. This eliminates the need for chemical treatment that pollutes the environment. The relatively lightweight nature of beams makes them easy to transport. This, in turn, reduces the need for energy-intensive transportation. All factors considered, there is hardly any other material as eco-friendly as steel beams in modern engineering.

 

Conclusion

Get in touch with Scarboro Steel Works Inc. for the finest steel beams in Ontario. We also offer steel stairs and custom steel fabrication in Toronto and the GTA. Call 416.751.5033 to get a free quote or place an order today!