Low-Carbon Emission Steel: The Next Step in Sustainable Construction at QbiQ
With the recent arrival of our first shipment of Low Carbon Emission Steel (LCES) from Forster, QbiQ is taking a concrete step toward making our products and processes more sustainable. As Forster’s first Green Partner, we are actively contributing to the use of steel with significantly lower CO₂ emissions, without compromising on quality, performance, or aesthetics.
What is Low Carbon Emission Steel?
Low Carbon Emission Steel is produced with a significantly reduced CO₂ footprint compared to traditional steel. The steel industry is responsible for a significant portion of global industrial CO₂ emissions. Thanks to innovations in the production process, this impact is being reduced step by step.
The lower emissions are achieved through a combination of factors:
- Use of recycled steel (scrap)
Instead of relying solely on iron ore, a larger proportion of recycled steel is used. This significantly reduces energy consumption. - Electric production processes (EAF)
Modern steel production uses electric arc furnaces (EAFs), which are more efficient and emit significantly less CO₂ than traditional blast furnaces. - Green energy
The use of renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power further reduces indirect emissions. - Optimization of logistics and the supply chain
Shorter transport distances and more efficient supply chains also contribute to the reduction of total emissions.
The result is steel with the same mechanical properties and reliability, but with a significantly lower environmental impact.
Steel Profiles
Forster is a leading manufacturer of steel profiles for fire-resistant and glass facades. These profiles form the foundation of our high-quality, fire-resistant glass wall systems, which combine safety, transparency, and aesthetics.
By manufacturing these profiles using LCES, we immediately reduce the CO₂ impact of our solutions without compromising:
- Fire-resistant performance (EI classifications)
- Structural strength and stability
- Processing capabilities in production and installation
- Architectural appearance
This means that, from now on, our clients can choose the same trusted QbiQ quality, with demonstrably more sustainable use of materials.
Why is this important for QbiQ?
Sustainability is playing an increasingly important role in the construction sector—not only due to laws and regulations, but also because clients and end users want to make conscious choices.
For QbiQ, the use of Low Carbon Emission Steel aligns perfectly with our broader sustainability strategy:
- Reducing the environmental impact of our products
- Promoting the circular use of materials
- Collaborating with partners who actively invest in sustainability
- Leading the way in innovation within our industry
- By being the first Forster Green Partner to take this step, we are demonstrating that sustainability is not an ambition for the future, but a concrete choice we are making today.
Impact on the Environment and Construction Projects
The use of LCES directly contributes to lower CO₂ emissions from construction projects. Especially in larger projects, where a significant amount of steel is used, this can lead to a significant reduction in a building’s overall environmental performance (MPG; Environmental Performance of Buildings).
In addition, it helps clients achieve sustainability goals and certifications such as:
- BREEAM
- LEED
- WELL
By choosing materials with a lower environmental impact, not only is the building’s carbon footprint reduced, but it also actively contributes to the transition toward a more sustainable construction sector.
The Next Step
This green initiative marks an important milestone, but it is only the beginning. QbiQ continues to seek ways to further enhance the sustainability of materials, processes, and partnerships.
The use of Low Carbon Emission Steel is a logical and important part of this effort: a practical, immediately applicable solution that contributes to a more sustainable future—without compromising on quality or design freedom.
