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Sustainability Strategy 2025

Our Sustainability Strategy

Specific factors we can influence

Nordic Steel has taken responsibility for climate, environment and sustainability for many years. We have taken a clear stand that we will be a leader in our industry within sustainability. For us, this means doing what we can in all areas we can influence.

With a strategic approach to sustainability, we take into account economic, social and environmental factors. Sustainability can also be commercially profitable, while reducing greenhouse gas emissions and taking care of people and the surrounding community.

We are committed to concrete results and therefore we are clear in our sustainability work. Climate, environment, working life and social responsibility are closely linked. At Nordic Steel, we work specifically with four sustainability goals, all of which are goals where we can make a difference. These are goal 3 on good health and quality of life, goal 8 on decent work and economic growth, goal 13 on stopping climate change, and goal 17 on cooperation to achieve the goals.

In this report you will learn more about how we work with sustainability, and what is important to us in our industry. Here are some key points:

• We are Eco-Lighthouse certified.

• Reports annually on scope 1, 2 and parts of scope 3

• Reports annually on the Transparency Act

• Reports annually on the Activity and Reporting Obligation

• Partner of Compera, a tool that collects and compares sustainability data from the value chain

• Our own innovation and research project will provide our customers with accurate CO2 emissions from the products we manufacture


Communications and Sustainability Manager, Kjersti Sandvik Bernt

Nordic Steel

This is us

From idea to finished solution. Nordic Steel is Norway's leading competence center within steel. We work with engineering, advanced sheet metal processing, certified welding and assembly. We deliver high-quality mechanical production and project management to customers in all industries. These include renewable energy, aquaculture and maritime, HVAC, energy and offshore, transportation and infrastructure, construction and civil engineering, defense and aerospace, and various other industries.

Since 2013, Nordic Steel has positioned itself as one of Norway's most serious steel centers. In 2019, the company moved into a modern, new head office in Bryne. In 2022, Nordic Steel expanded with a new production facility, which has become Norway's most modern welding hall. In 2024, Nordic Steel purchased the neighboring property Breimyra 5, in the Håland industrial area. There is room here to grow for many more years. In total, the company now has 40,000 square meters of property.

Nordic Steel has its own sales offices in Oslo and Ålesund. At the beginning of 2025, we will have a total of 139 employees.

Eco-Lighthouse certified

Nordic Steel is a certified Eco-Lighthouse company. We are also ISO 9001 certified. We use figures and environmental data from the Eco-Lighthouse's annual climate and environmental report as a management tool.

Environmental Lighthouse certification helps build a number of sustainability goals, especially in areas that deal with business inputs, activities, products and services (source: Environmental Lighthouse ).

Through EcoLighthouse Norway's digital system for environmental management, we as a company have access to statistics and climate accounts to measure the effect of our environmental work. This gives us the opportunity to implement measures that work. Eco-Lighthouse's climate accounts are based on the Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG), which is the most widely recognized standard for reporting greenhouse gas emissions.

A sustainable future

Nordic Steel is a growing company. Our strategy defines that we will grow both organically and inorganically. We believe in sustainable growth. That is why we work purposefully to reduce our CO₂ emissions, and ensure that any increase is in line with the values we create.

As an industrial company, it is important for us to lead the way. We will do what we can for a more sustainable development in the steel industry. Every year we report on environmental and climate, social and governance issues, to monitor our development. This allows us to make sustainable choices in our own operations and implement measures where the need for change is greatest.

In the EU, there are changes and developments in the requirements for corporate sustainability reporting. When the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) was introduced, many of our clients also became required to report. For small and medium-sized unlisted companies, the EU's Voluntary Standard for Sustainability Reporting (VSME) is a good alternative.

However, in February 2025, the European Commission presented proposals for simplifications of the CSRD, through the so-called “Omnibus package”. Several companies will be exempted from reporting requirements, and it is also proposed to remove the carbon tax (CBAM) requirement for small importers and small and medium-sized enterprises. The measures in the Omnibus aim to strengthen the competitiveness of EU companies, promote sustainable economic growth and make it easier to invest in the green transition (source: European Commission, https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_25_614).

Since 2014, we have reported on greenhouse gas emissions through the Environmental Lighthouse Foundation. During 2025, Environmental Lighthouse's sustainability reporting will be changed to be based on the EU's voluntary standard, VSME.

Nordic Steel follows reporting requirements and standards closely. Our sustainability work should be based on the most significant impacts we have on people, climate and nature. Therefore, we also want to be as clear as possible in our work.

Nordic Steel also reports annually on the Transparency Act and works for fundamental human rights and responsible working conditions. We have conducted due diligence assessments in line with the OECD guidelines. In this work, we have mapped possible and actual negative consequences and significant risks to human rights in our own operations and in our value chain. We published our report on the Transparency Act in June 2024. Since 2023, we have also reported on the Activity and Reporting Duty, which specifically captures the work on equality and discrimination.

Marketing Manager, Mathias Hult and Senior Sales Engineer, Atle Lie-Handeland

Innovation and responsibility

We have chosen to launch a major research and innovation project to measure CO2 emissions from all stages of production. This will give our customers a better basis for choosing more sustainable products and solutions. 

We have spent 2024 developing, testing and exploring collaboration with actors who can assist in the best possible project, where our methods are also verified by an independent actor. 

The goal is that we will get a calculation of CO2 emissions, without extra work, on all our offers. All data will be entered into our business system, so that emission figures are automatically included in the offer. Together with the customers, we will then be able to discuss both price and delivery time, but also CO2 emissions, before we start a project.

When our customers see that they can choose more environmentally friendly solutions to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and that these are also verified figures, it can strengthen the basis for decision-making. Customers can make an informed choice, and help reduce emissions. After a project is completed, customers receive a climate account of what was actually used.

Value creation and economic profitability are crucial for sustainable development. We believe that our CO2 project is the right way to go, by providing our customers with a fact-based decision-making basis. It can lead more people to choose more environmentally friendly produced steel, which is an important transition in the steel industry.

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Four sustainability goals

The UN has created a joint work plan for the whole world to eradicate poverty, fight inequality and stop climate change. The work plan shows how our common challenges are interconnected, and consists of 17 sustainable development goals that address climate, environment, economy and social conditions. 

Nordic Steel supports the UN Sustainable Development Goals and we have a number of initiatives and processes that emphasize the different goals. We divide our sustainable choices into three core areas: people, labor and the environment. In addition, collaboration is essential to us. The three core areas, and the section on collaboration, are all linked to the UN Sustainable Development Goals. 

We have selected some of the goals that we focus on in particular, because this is where we can make an extra difference. By highlighting some goals, we commit ourselves and set a clear direction for our sustainability work.

We are also working on the other SDGs. We recognize many of the goals in our values. Gender equality, industry, innovation and infrastructure, sustainable cities and communities and responsible consumption and production are important goals for us.

Nordic Steel sees sustainable choices and our climate footprint as crucial for future competitiveness. As a company, we must have a profile that is sustainable and climate-friendly. We take responsibility in the green shift, and as a cornerstone company in the local community, we take responsibility for people, working life, the environment and cooperation with others.

We will do what we can, in all areas where we can contribute. We are part of the solutions of the future.

Apprentice, Jeppe Roukema

Words from Børre

Our job is to create value for all stakeholders. That's why we do everything we can, both for our customers, colleagues and owners, but also for society.

As a society, we must cut emissions, both to take care of the planet and the climate, but also for the generations that come after us. We take our share of responsibility for that.

We have chosen to invest in the green shift. Not because we have to, but because it is the right thing to do. For us, sustainability is also profitable. We are chosen as a company because we deliver the most environmentally friendly solutions and the strictest requirements. We are already seeing increased demand from our customers for solutions that have lower emissions. 

Many are skeptical that investments in the green transition do not yield such high returns in the first few years. It is nevertheless the right thing to do. Those who are early adopters are ready to meet reporting standards and requirements, both from the EU and others, when they come. Taking active responsibility can make people ask, listen to, choose to cooperate with, and trust you.

It means something to be a pioneering company that takes sustainable responsibility. But what does sustainable responsibility mean in operations for us?

This means that we are spending significant resources on developing a completely new system to have all CO2 emissions documented before the start of a project, precisely to make emissions visible and get customers to choose more sustainable solutions. We collaborate with the leading players who offer the most environmentally friendly steel produced. We design, produce and develop solutions that both save steel and make the best possible use of the steel plates. Our machinery is probably Norway's most modern and uses little electricity. We recycle almost all waste, and have replaced almost all of our trucks from diesel to electricity. 

CEO, Børre Lobekk

We also take responsibility for health, environment and safety. It should be safe and good to work at Nordic Steel. We have social meeting places both in the workplace and in our free time. We do a lot here, but the total package with both joint training and various activities means that we build teams together, both for health, development and cohesion. In 2024 we got a new colleague who works specifically with culture and social activities. This is important to us!

Did you know that we also have colleagues at Nordic Steel who want to work here because we take sustainable responsibility? I think that's pretty cool. People want to be with those who take responsibility and who lead the way. 

Being part of Nordic Steel is more than being part of a workplace, just to have a job. We will deliver what has been agreed upon, and make fantastic things in steel for our customers, and we will also make money. But working at Nordic Steel means that we are part of something bigger. We are part of a society, where we contribute and where we have a voice. The fact that we build our business the way we do gives us the power to take part in larger discussions, and the power to give back. We get the opportunity to set the agenda and direction for our industry, and take responsibility for Norwegian industry in a larger perspective. In that context, we will be a leading player in Norway. We will also continue to give back to the local community that we are so happy about.

We will make the choices that make us show again and that provide the foundation for even more, which has obviously led us to where we are today. But we will never forget where we come from. We have built this company together, brick by brick, and we will continue to do so. 

We will continue to make healthy, good choices. Dare to be forward-looking and invest in what we do. And consolidate our position as Norway's leading center of expertise in steel. I look forward to the future. 

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Opportunities and challenges regarding sustainability in the steel industry

Never before has the steel industry been in such a major transformation as it is now. New steel production methods will dramatically change emissions in the industry.

Traditional steel production is energy-intensive and among the largest sources of CO2 emissions in the world. The steel industry has begun to address this issue. In many countries in Europe, traditional steel production using coal has been replaced by electricity and renewable sources. Now, several players are also in the process of rebuilding, and building new plants, for steel production using hydrogen.

When green hydrogen and renewable energy are used in production, emissions are minimized. It is expected that hydrogen-based steel production could account for a significant part of European steel production in the coming years. 

However, hydrogen and other production methods have very high energy costs. This is also a concern of the European Commission, which recently presented an action plan to strengthen the steel and metals industry. In it, they propose measures to combat unfair competition from third countries, high energy prices and the looming trade war with the US, while promoting a green transition in the industry*.

Solutions with greener steel

While we wait for the most environmentally friendly steel to become commercially available, we have very good alternatives available.

Nordic Steel works closely with the most forward-thinking players in the industry. Our customers receive the most environmentally friendly steel when they trade with us. 

Already in 2023, Nordic Steel became the first in Norway to offer the world's most sustainable stainless steel to our customers, through a unique collaboration with the Finnish steel manufacturer Outokumpu. The steel Circle Green has 93 percent lower greenhouse gas emissions than the average in the industry worldwide.

The production of Circle Green was the first of its kind in the world. No other steel manufacturer has managed to produce stainless and acid-resistant steel with such low emissions, when all climate emissions from cradle to grave are included. The emissions figures from Circle Green include the entire life cycle, from raw material extraction, production, transport, use and recycling. Outokumpu produces Circle Green in Finland, and from Nordic Steel's point of view, this means that the transport to Norway is much shorter than from other steel manufacturers.

Other types of green steel are also supplied by several other steel producers. This can be steel with up to 90 percent recycled scrap content. We also use steel with environmental product declarations (EPDs), and can provide climate accounts and thorough documentation of all production.

Assembly supervisor, Patrick Øgård and assembler, Kjetil H. Aanestad

Climate risk

Climate risk is about how the physical consequences of climate change affect nature and society, and what the transition to a society with net zero emissions entails. The Climate Risk Committee in Norway assessed climate-related risk factors and their significance for the Norwegian economy in 2018. The committee points out that climate change creates climate risk, and that it is human-made greenhouse gas emissions that cause climate change (source: NOU 2018:17 Climate risk and the Norwegian economy).   

Nordic Steel is affected by climate risk, like most other companies worldwide. In the table on the next page, we assess various risk factors that are relevant to us. We look at the probability and consequence of various factors. We also assess appropriate measures for each factor.

Several risk factors may be difficult to influence, such as the fact that Norway and most other countries are experiencing a lot of uncertainty related to trade and customs, due to new policies from the United States at the beginning of 2025. On the factors we can influence, we are actively working to ensure that the opportunities of the low-emission society become a competitive advantage.

We have an organization built around flexibility, adaptability and innovation. A high level of expertise in engineering and design enables us to solve problems and optimize products for our customers. Demand from new markets, for new production and ideas, fits our organization perfectly. 

We have been supplying new industries and new technologies for many years. Nordic Steel has taken a strong position in offshore wind, and we also deliver to many different projects within charging infrastructure, carbon capture and onshore fish farms. 

It is important for us to maintain a diversified customer portfolio. We deliver to projects in all industries. This means that we are not exposed to major fluctuations in the market, as others may be. 

Norwegian production is also a climate advantage for us. We have gathered our entire organization in Norway, and it is often a short distance to our customers. Many of our suppliers are located nearby, which in turn reduces emissions from transportation. 

We source the raw materials we depend on from all over the world. The material steel is among the raw materials that we purchase from wholesalers and steel mills. However, many of the steel producers are located in Finland and Sweden, where the distance is not that great. We use local suppliers of other goods as often as we can. Their supply chains can also be affected by access to raw materials and transportation challenges, which can be significant for us.

Nordic Steel is well equipped to withstand many climate risk factors. The choices we make and the actions we take mitigate climate risk. We continuously assess risks and changes in the market to adapt and look ahead.

Stakeholders

Nordic Steel has a large number of stakeholders who are in contact with us and affected by our activities in various ways. It is important for us to have an open and active dialog with everyone around us.

A stakeholder is a person, group or organization that has a common interest, right or influence on a business, project or decision.

Project Manager, Olaug B. Skartland

Through dialog with both external and internal stakeholders, we obtain information about which topics are most important. For employees, these include good management, safe working conditions and career opportunities. For customers, it is quality products, value creation, delivery precision and good service. The local community, organizations and associations see value in cooperation, support and local employment.

Chief Financial Officer, Andreas Pierre Hatjoullis

The graph clearly shows that the majority of our customers shop with us again, year after year. A high rate of recurring revenue of between 88 and 107 percent over the past four years underlines that our customers experience great value through their collaboration with Nordic Steel. 

The fact that customers keep coming back is a great vote of confidence – a strong confirmation that we deliver quality and keep our promises.

When customers come back to us year after year, it's also about the people they meet every day. At Nordic Steel, we have an environment where our people have both the knowledge and commitment needed to create great experiences. 

Long-term collaborations give us the opportunity to create partnerships where we grow and develop together over time.

Human: Good health and quality of life

Health, safety and environment (HSE) are at the forefront of Nordic Steel and we take active responsibility for our employees' health. We have therefore chosen the UN's goal of good health and quality of life as a goal we are specifically working towards.

"Good health is a fundamental prerequisite for people to reach their full potential and to contribute to the development of society." (UN Federation)

HSE (health, environment and safety)

Health, safety and the environment are the most important things we work with and work for. Everyone should have a safe workplace and a safe and good environment around them. 

We have procedures, routines, risk assessments, rules, safety rounds and goals within health, environment and safety. This covers everything from protective equipment, to driving a forklift, lifting, welding technical control and safe job analysis. We have both systems and a culture for speaking up and reporting unwanted incidents and errors. HSE should always be taken seriously.

Work Environment

Our goal is for all employees at Nordic Steel to enjoy their jobs and have a meaningful working day. A workplace should be positive for health and quality of life.

The working environment is good at Nordic Steel. We aim to be informal and pleasant, both for employees and visitors. At Nordic Steel we are also good colleagues who care about each other. 

We have many activities both in our own workplace and outside, which lead to better well-being and unity. We also have many routines that ensure good health, a good environment and a safe workplace. Here are some examples:

• Follow-up of sick leave

• Collaboration with the occupational health service

- Occupational health survey

• Noise protection course

• Course on welding fumes

• Course in working at height

• Ergonomic audits and risk assessment

- Noise measurement

• Safety inspections

• Employee 1:1

• First aid training

• Department meetings

- Training opportunities

• Social activities

Operations Manager and Assistant General Manager, Bjørnar Huru

Equality and diversity

At Nordic Steel, it goes without saying that equality is part of our rights. Equality at all levels is an important part of the company and everyone should have equal opportunities. We report on the Activity and Accountability Act, which sets requirements for the work to promote equality and prevent discrimination.

Traditionally, the steel industry has been male-dominated. It still is, and we also have the most men employed in Nordic Steel. The proportion of women has nevertheless increased in recent years, and at the end of 2024 we had 139 employees in the company. Of these, 122 were men and 17 were women. The proportion of women increased by one percentage point in 2024, compared to 2023. 

Equality is more than gender equality. It is also about pay, opportunities, and diversity. It is a company policy that work of equal value should result in equal pay.

Nordic Steel's work on equality and discrimination is enshrined in several of our documents, such as the personnel handbook and ethical guidelines. The work on equality is ongoing in all departments, and everyone has the right to report if they or others are exposed to conditions that are not compatible with our values.

We think it's great that we have colleagues with a diverse background, whether it's nationality, ethnicity, age, gender or anything else. Everyone is welcome here. 

Nordic Steel is an international company, with many different nationalities. We are particularly proud of that. Although many have long since become Norwegian citizens, we have colleagues with origins from Iceland, Sweden, Chile, Poland, Bulgaria, Lithuania, Estonia, Russia, Romania, Syria, Vietnam, Northern Ireland and Ukraine.

Exercise and social activities

We have facilitated self-training and physical activity with a state-of-the-art training room in Langmyra 6. All employees with families have access here. At the same time, we have joint training sessions every week, either on our own or with coach and mental trainer Gunn Narten. Both running, walking and strength training, which suits all levels. 2025 will be a vigorous year at Nordic Steel, together with colleagues.

We also have training sessions at InterPadel Bryne, and we are part of the corporate bowling series at Bryne. We also participate in several races and events during the year. Here we mention Markusløpet, Robustløpet and Akva-milå.

Those who need it can receive treatment at a local fitness and physiotherapy center, with which we have an agreement. 

Every month we have a salary meeting, either as an activity or at a local restaurant. Company trips and gatherings at the workplace are important for the environment at the workplace. In 2024, we gathered employees and their entourage on a company trip to Sicily. On New Year's Day in 2025, we had a preview of the TV 2 series Boksen in our canteen (where we actually made the actual box used in the program), and gathered many employees and their entourage for a proper premiere party. 

Document controller, Taisiia Kozarenko

Climate risk

A sustainable local environment and community is important to us. We sponsor local sports and cultural life with significant amounts annually, to help ensure good growing conditions for children and young people. We want to help make our region an attractive place to live and work.

We support, among other things, in random order:

• The Joy Patrol

• Sandnes handball

• Bryne handball club

• Bryne football club

• Nærbø IL

• InterPadel Bryne

• Frøyland IL

• Varhaug IL

• Undheim IL

• Jæren Golf Club

• The Culture Bank

• Mark's race

• Rosseland ball club

• Hognestad IL

• Sviland BMX

• Litla Jærnåttå and Jærnåttå

• Sander Juuhl-Sivertsen (tennis)

• Maren Sele Kvia (horseback riding)

• Young Chefs of the Year

• Nordic Steel Run

• Bryne gymnastics team 

Healthy Lunch Offer

We offer a healthy and varied lunch buffet in the canteen every day. Gathering around the dining table is valuable for cohesion and the environment in the workplace. Through certified canteen operations, we reduce food waste and make environmentally friendly choices with goods and purchases. The canteen is Nordic Swan Ecolabel and Debio-labeled, and we have organic food, food from NYT Norway and food with the Keyhole label.

Action plan (core area People) – we will:

- Have zero lost time injuries in the year

- Have a sick leave rate below 3.5 percent per year

- Have safety rounds every other month

- A social Friday meeting every month

• Offers of joint training every week

• Paddle training and corporate bowling

- A "green" theme every month internally

• Mark ourselves locally by supporting sports, culture and business

Reception and Culture Manager, Siv Iren Klepp

Working life: Decent work and economic growth

Nordic Steel provides a stable and secure working life for everyone who works with us, and we indirectly contribute to 109 jobs at other companies (source: DnB's Ringvirkinger). The UN's Sustainable Development Goals, which are about promoting sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full employment and decent work for all, are also one of the goals we have chosen to work towards.

It goes without saying that we follow applicable laws and regulations in Norway. We take responsibility for a serious and decent working life, with skilled workers, wages, apprentices and working conditions. 

Customers and Industries

Through a diversified customer portfolio and delivery to many different industries, Nordic Steel is not as exposed to market fluctuations as other players may be. In 2024, the distribution of Nordic Steel's revenue to various industries was: Construction and civil engineering 39.2 percent, energy and offshore 38 percent, aquaculture 10.8 percent, transportation and infrastructure 8.9 percent, renewable energy 2.4 percent, and various industries 0.7 percent. 

Forward-looking

Nordic Steel has the will, expertise and resources to invest in the future. As a cornerstone company in Jæren, we invest in buildings, machinery and equipment for increased productivity, more people in work and a safe working life. In this way, we grow together with our customers and create value for all stakeholders. In 2024, we purchased the neighboring property in the Håland industrial area, where we have room to grow further. 

Foreman welder, Damian Jamroz

Inclusion

Nordic Steel provides jobs and opportunities to people who have fallen out of the workforce for various reasons or who need work and language training. We also collaborate with NAV on employment-oriented measures. 

Transparency law

Nordic Steel is subject to the Norwegian Transparency Act. This law is intended to ensure that businesses respect fundamental human rights and decent working conditions, and that the public has access to information about this. The law applies to us, our suppliers and our business partners. 

We have conducted due diligence assessments based on the UN Universal Declaration of Human Rights, in line with OECD guidelines. We work strategically on working conditions, working environment and human rights with employees and suppliers. Being open about human rights risks and opportunities contributes to better working conditions throughout the industry. 

Action plan (core area: Working life) – we will: 

- Take on more apprentices every year

- Attend trade days and school events to recruit more apprentices and young workers

- Increase the number of environmentally certified suppliers

• Conduct follow-up meetings with critical suppliers, request documentation on environmental and  

human rights

- Perform due diligence in line with the Transparency Act by the end of June

- Carry out the duty of activity and reporting, for work on gender equality and preventing discrimination

• We will work for an inclusive working life and continue our collaboration with NAV.

Apprentice in the record department, Jeppe Roukema

Environment: Stopping climate change

We will help to combat climate change and its consequences. Therefore, the goal of stopping climate change is a central goal for us. Greenhouse gas emissions are one of the biggest challenges we face worldwide. Everyone has a responsibility to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and we are doing our part.

It is important for us to do our best in all areas we can influence. We have our own environmental management system in the company, with our own environmental handbook, which all employees are introduced to when they join us.

Through Miljøfyrtårn's climate accounts, we have annual reporting of greenhouse gases. Nordic Steel has good routines for reporting its own greenhouse gas emissions, and we report on both direct and indirect emissions. We have an overview of all scopes 1 and 2, and significantly more categories of scope 3. 

CO2 emissions by scope 1, 2 and 3

We currently report on scope 1 (direct emissions from machinery and vehicles), scope 2 (indirect emissions from energy use) and parts of scope 3 (indirect emissions from the supply chain).

In 2024, our climate emissions were 153.5 tons of CO2. This is divided into 48 tons in scope 1, 24.5 tons in scope 2, and 81 tons in scope 3. Compared to 2023, our CO2 emissions increase by 29 percent. In 2023, emissions were 118.8 tons.

When we look at the distribution within the three scopes, it is almost exactly the same in scope 3 (80 tons in 2023, 81 tons in 2024). Under scope 2, we have reduced emissions from 2023 to 2024 (27.3 tons in 2023, 24.5 tons in 2024). The increase occurs in scope 1 (11.5 tons in 2023, 48 tons in 2024).

We can explain that. In 2024, the company Nordic Steel Construction became part of Nordic Steel. As a steel contractor and assembly company, the assemblers in the company had vehicles that they used. Nordic Steel has therefore become the owner of more vehicles than before, and several of them run on diesel. We are working on replacing parts of the vehicle fleet and during the year several of the cars have also been sold. We also have many construction trucks in use in the production premises and the logistics department. In recent years, we have replaced diesel trucks with electric trucks. 

We actively seek to reduce our footprint by streamlining production and setting requirements for suppliers and partners.

Our largest emissions are in scope 3, which are indirect emissions from the supply chain. This includes materials we use and transportation. We do not measure all categories within scope 3, but we measure waste, flights and driving allowances. With our research and innovation project on CO2 emissions for each project, we get figures that are very useful for reporting more within scope 3.

Project Manager, Frida Layti

Circular economy and recycling

At Nordic Steel, we sort all waste. Cardboard and paper, plastic, chemicals, hazardous waste, electrical waste, wood, food waste, residual waste and metal. Again in 2024, we recycled over 90 percent of all waste at Nordic Steel. All steel is sent for recycling so that it can be turned into new steel, and in this way we ensure a good circular economy. Steel can be recycled an infinite number of times without losing its properties. 

Circular economy was also an internal environmental theme in November 2024. At that time, we organized, among other things, a recycling market in our canteen. We have also started a bottle deposit system, where deposit bottles are collected in separate containers. The deposit goes to Flaskefond, which supports Norwegian start-ups and entrepreneurs working with the UN's sustainability goals.

Chemicals

We minimize the use of hazardous chemicals and actively seek sustainable substitutes. We conduct chemical substitution assessments every year, with the aim of replacing hazardous chemicals with equivalent products, if available. 

Transportation: Electric car chargers and city bikes

It should be easy to travel to and from Nordic Steel in an environmentally friendly way. We have many electric city bikes right outside our front door. The city bikes can easily be combined with trains or buses at Bryne station.

As a responsible employer and contributor to the local community, we have for several years had electric car chargers available for employees, customers and anyone else who needs charging outside our building. In total, we have 22 EV chargers.

Sourcing

In framework agreements, companies that will deliver to us must document environmental responsibility and/or certification. We follow up suppliers on the environment and human rights. We have our own procedures for purchasing and handling suppliers. The environment is a topic in all procedures and follow-up meetings with suppliers.

Chairman laser, Daniel Johnsen

Green Steel

We can offer green steel. This is steel that is manufactured in renewable or near emission-free production, and steel with a high content of recycled steel scrap.

We have a unique agreement with the Finnish steel manufacturer Outokumpu, which is the world leader in stainless steel production. We were the first in Norway to offer the world's most sustainable stainless steel to our customers, Circle Green from Outokumpu.

We are working closely with leading players around the world who are starting to produce green steel. Over the next few years, we will see major changes in emission-free production.

Steel recycling

Reusing steel means that we use the steel as it is, over and over again, without melting it into new steel. This has major climate benefits. Steel is a type of building material that is suitable for reuse. We have experience of reusing steel, including in the construction of a new teaching building for Kristiania University College in central Oslo.

Action plan (core area Environment) – we will:

• Percentage increase in CO2 emissions versus percentage increase in turnover shall be kept stable. It shall not exceed the ratio between emissions and turnover, with reference figures to 2020

• Increase the number of projects with Circle Green steel, or equivalent

- Report more categories within scope 3, which are indirect emissions

- Reduce the number of hazardous chemicals to fewer than seven

• Maintain the waste recycling rate above 94 percent

- Replacing diesel trucks with electric trucks

Sheet metal and assembly worker, Live Erga

Collaboration: Working together to achieve goals

To achieve the sustainability goals that almost the entire world is united around (through the UN's 2030 Agenda), we must work together. It is no use becoming more sustainable if the rest of the industry does not adapt. We are part of a larger system, and to achieve the sustainability goals it is important that actors in all positions, industries and countries work together. Cooperation is central to the fight for good health and quality of life, decent working conditions and to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Research and innovation project

We have several leading players involved in the innovation project to measure actual greenhouse gas emissions from everything we produce. Several major customers are supporting the project, which will provide factual figures for decision-makers. We see this as a great commercial opportunity to bring the greenest solutions to the market.

Customers and partners

We strive to create the best solutions for our customers. We offer short-distance production and tailor-made solutions. With great expertise in design and engineering, we optimize products and ensure that the right steel is used for each project. We can offer the greenest steel on the market to our customers.

Circle Green and Outokumpu

Collaboration with Finnish steel producer Outokumpu to offer the world's most sustainable stainless steel, Circle Green, to Nordic Steel's customers in Norway. The steel has 93 percent lower greenhouse gas emissions than the industry average.

Welding foreman, Damian Jamroz, senior sales engineer, Christopher Vold and welder, Pawel Romanek

Compera

Nordic Steel is a partner in Compera, which develops and simplifies systems and tools for sustainability reporting. The project develops solutions to simplify climate reporting and improve data quality, so that companies can reduce indirect emissions from the value chain. 

In 2024, all Nordic Steel's suppliers received a questionnaire to map their competence and challenges in the field of sustainability. We received responses from 37 percent, which we consider a high response rate for a voluntary questionnaire. In 2025, the Compera tool will be implemented in Nordic Steel.

Competence sharing

Collaboration for us also means sharing knowledge. We share information in various collaboration forums and contribute to improving the skills of both customers and partners. It is important for us to create interest in environmentally friendly steel and the opportunities we have to reduce climate emissions. 

Networking and conferences

We participate in conferences and trade fairs, both as participants and speakers. We use these opportunities to make more people aware of Nordic Steel, Norwegian production and sustainable solutions. We also participate in several networks within sustainability and HSE. These are natural arenas for Nordic Steel, because we believe in developing together with others – through knowledge sharing, dialogue and collaboration.

Action Plan (Core Area Cooperation) – we will:

• Include our customers in the research and innovation project on CO2 emissions 

• Use Compera to map emissions in the value chain

- Participate in conferences, trade shows and networks

- Writing professional articles and sharing knowledge

Senior Project Manager, Bengt Sanne

Selected Data from Nordic Steel

Below are statistics from recent years with data for selected factors in Nordic Steel. These are important factors that we report on.

Co2 emissions

2022: 85.3 tons

2023: 136.5 tons

2024: 153.5 tons

Our CO2 emissions are based on the combined emissions of energy use, transport and waste. From 2023 to 2024, our emissions will increase, which was expected. We have purchased the neighboring property of 18,000 square meters. Our sister company, Nordic Steel Construction, has also become part of Nordic Steel. The fitters in the company had many vehicles that Nordic Steel took over. Several of the vehicles have been sold, and there are also plans to sell more. 

In addition to fuel consumption, energy use and waste, we also report on business travel by air, travel allowances and water consumption. Other factors we respond to include purchasing from significant suppliers, suppliers with a certified environmental management system, biodiversity and land use, labor conditions in the value chain, labor conditions in the business, chemicals, affected communities, and customers and end users.

Waste recycling

2022: 92.2 tons

2023: 93.9 tons

2024: 90.2 tons

We have good waste management practices and take waste recycling seriously. There are marked containers and waste stations both indoors and outdoors. We sort waste in all buildings, both in administration and production.

Steel is an important part of the circular economy, because it can be remelted an infinite number of times and recycled into new steel without compromising the quality and properties of the material. At our company, all steel waste is put to good use as recycled steel. In 2024, 384,120 kilograms of steel waste were sent for recycling and 100 percent of this was recycled into new, more environmentally friendly steel.

After the acquisition of the neighboring property, Breimyra 5, it has been necessary to clean up and dispose of some waste on the property. We have chosen to keep several buildings and renovate them, instead of demolishing and building new ones.

Accounting Manager, Evy Aasland

Suppliers

2022: NOK 68,290,264 is purchases from suppliers with a certified environmental management system

2023: NOK 129,398,688 is purchases from suppliers with a certified environmental management system

2024: NOK 157,137,603 is purchases from suppliers with a certified environmental management system

The figures from 2022 are data from significant suppliers over NOK 100,000. In 2023, we raised the total to NOK 200,000, because the amount of purchases and the number of suppliers increased significantly. In 2024, the figures are also taken from suppliers over NOK 200,000. In 2024, we had 96 suppliers over NOK 200,000. Of these, 63 are environmentally certified, or were in the process of certification in 2024. Of purchases measured in NOK from significant suppliers, we have only included those that are certified.

We purchase several eco-labeled goods and services. The cleaning at Nordic Steel is Swan-labeled. The canteen is both Swan- and Debio-labeled. We serve food that is organic, Keyhole-labeled and from NYT Norge. We have many consumables for building operations that are eco-labeled. 

We encourage suppliers we work with to become certified, and provide advice and support to those who want or need this.

Absence due to Illness

2022: 3.0 percent

2023: 1.9 percent

2024: 4.5 percent

A good and safe working environment is important. We work actively to maintain a good environment at Nordic Steel, with several social activities and training opportunities. 

However, the regular working day is more important than social meeting places. We emphasize seeing each other, smiling and saying hello. It should be good to work at Nordic Steel and we also want to meet others with the same good tone we have.

Sickness absence is a good sign that people enjoy their work and want to go to work. Sickness absence increased slightly in 2024, but this mainly concerns long-term sick leave. The number of self-reported sick leave is low in Nordic Steel, year after year. In 2024, sick leave was 4.5 percent in total. This was divided into 3.7 percent for long-term sick leave and 0.8 percent for self-reported sick leave. 

Business controller, Joakim Olsen


Lost-time injuries

2022: 0

2023: 0

2024: 2

Health, safety and environment is a continuous effort, with emphasis on good training, routines and risk analyses. We have a well-established industrial safety system and regular safety rounds. HSE is a topic at all department meetings and daily operational meetings.

HSE is also a topic of internal sustainability during the year. In 2024, some of the topics included working at heights, point extraction for welding fumes and the use of protective equipment.

We had two lost-time injuries in 2024, fortunately neither of which were serious. However, it underlines the importance of health, safety and environment work, and that we can never rest when it comes to our health.

Technical draftsman, Tone Lise Eike

Apprentices

2022: 6

2023: 6

2024: 5

The number of apprentices is the number of apprentices working with us in the year in question. Most apprentices are trained as apprentices for two years.

Nordic Steel takes on apprentices every year, in the sheet metal worker trade, production engineering trade, as well as industrial fitter and welding trade. It has been more difficult to recruit new apprentices in the past year, but we hope that more young people will choose a vocational education that we will need in the future. There are secure jobs in the mechanical industry in Jæren.

In 2024, we were able to congratulate three of our apprentices on their certificates. Live Selvik Erga and Daniel Johnsen received their certificates in production engineering. Adrian Bekkeheien received his certificates in welding.