Sustainability of Stainless Steel

The old saying goes “take time to stop & smell the roses”, in our business, we like to take the time to stop and admire the Stainless Steel. Have you ever taken notice to the everyday items that are fabricated from stainless steel? Stainless steel is trending in today’s lifestyles, everything from kitchens and bathrooms to jewelry!  One thing that remains constant in a “here today, gone tomorrow” trendy culture, is sustainability of stainless steel.

Common applications of stainless steel:

Domestic:  utensils, sinks, appliances, cookware, backsplashes, cutlery and even the drums in washing machines.

Architecture:  handrails, door and window fittings, street furniture, structural sections, reinforcing, lighting, art.

Medical:  surgical tools, elevator doors and panels, trim work, gowning benches, surgical implants, MRI scanners.

Restaurants:  catering equipment, countertops, cabinetry, tables, pot racks, cutlery, duct work.

Transportation:  railways, subways, tunnels, bridges & even in airports.

Sustainability of Stainless Steel –

1. Production: Sustainability in production means that it is safe for humans. Whether it’s during the production process, handling of the product or everyday use.
2. Planet: The reuse & recyclability is high with stainless steel. The material has low maintenance and a long life span, being rust and corrosion resistant. 80% of all stainless steel is recycled at the end of its lifespan & this is a process that can be carried on indefinitely.
3. Profit: Companies choosing stainless steel for an application have low maintenance cost, long life and the ability to recycle at the end of that application’s life span. With stainless steel being fire and corrosion resistant, it’s a great economical choice for appliances, transportation and chemical applications.

Taking into account all the factors (recyclability, life span, low maintenance, & product safety) the emissions from production and use of stainless steel are minimal compared to any alternative material. Factor in the many different finishes (to be discussed in another blog), stainless steel has a great aesthetic value and is versatile enough for anyone to appreciate!