Schnitzer Steel’s transformation into Radius Recycling over the past several years illustrates the evolving role of metals recycling companies in the circular economy and environmental stewardship. The company’s 2022-2024 disclosures reveal a multi-pronged approach to sustainability, where operational decarbonization, circular material flows, and site remediation are tightly interwoven.
At the core of Schnitzer’s impact is its metals recycling operation, which processed and returned over 5 million metric tons of ferrous and non-ferrous metals to productive use each year. This not only reduces the need for virgin mining-a major source of global emissions and ecological disruption-but also underpins the company’s steady progress on greenhouse gas reduction: a 30% decrease in GHG emissions (vs. 2019) by 2024, up from 24% in 2022. Schnitzer’s operations have been powered by 100% net carbon-free electricity since 2022, underscoring a commitment to decarbonizing both process and product.
Bioremediation and site cleanup have become increasingly prominent in Schnitzer’s sustainability strategy. By 2024, the company had completed 12 bioremediation and soil cleanup projects, up from 8 in 2022. These efforts leverage both engineered and nature-based solutions to remediate legacy contamination at former industrial sites-transforming environmental liabilities into assets for communities and future redevelopment. This work is not only regulatory-driven but also a proactive part of Schnitzer’s value proposition as a responsible recycler.
Innovation is also evident in product development. The company’s GRN Steel™-produced from recycled scrap using electric arc furnace technology-saw shipments rise to 520,000 short tons in 2024. This product line exemplifies the convergence of circularity and low-carbon manufacturing, meeting growing demand from construction and manufacturing sectors seeking to decarbonize their own supply chains.
Waste diversion remains high, with over 85% of operational waste diverted from landfill in 2024. The company’s circularity ethos extends to non-metal waste streams, further reducing environmental impact.
Schnitzer has maintained resilience amid volatile commodity markets, with revenue rebounding to $3.6 billion and net income reaching $162 million in 2024. This performance reflects the growing alignment between sustainability leadership and business value in the metals sector.
Schnitzer Steel’s recent trajectory demonstrates how metals recycling firms can serve as engines of decarbonization, resource efficiency, and environmental remediation. By integrating bioremediation, circular product innovation, and renewable energy into its business model, Schnitzer is not only reducing its own footprint but also enabling broader industrial and community transitions toward sustainability.