The Singapore Green Building Council (SGBC) successfully convened industry leaders for the “Forging a Low-Carbon Future with Sustainable Steel” seminar on 9 October 2025, co-hosted with SGBC Member HH Group. The session provided critical insights into the role of advanced steel solutions in decarbonising the built environment, emphasising that material innovation is indispensable for achieving ambitious net-zero targets.
The SGBC Seminar featured distinguished experts who unpacked the challenges and opportunities in the sustainable steel value chain for more than 100 representatives from across the built environment value chain.
Dr. Xu Haoxin, from SGBC Member Ramboll, delivered a presentation on decarbonising the steel industry in Southeast Asia. She outlined a dual-pathway strategy, stressing the importance of implementing short-term efficiency gains in existing production methods while simultaneously planning for a long-term transition to breakthrough technologies like green hydrogen and carbon capture.
A compelling case for the immediate application of sustainable stainless steel was presented by Mr. Daniel Low from HH Group and Mr. Claes Tigerstrand from the global stainless steel leader Outokumpu. They demonstrated how materials like stainless steel contribute to lowering the embodied carbon of structures, highlighting its durability, recyclability, and alignment with green building certifications. The presentation was brought to life with real-world examples, including Singapore’s iconic Helix Bridge, showcasing its practical viability and cost-effectiveness.
The SGBC Seminar concluded with a clear set of actionable takeaways for the industry:
- Innovation is Non-Negotiable: While steel remains a cornerstone of modern construction, its future depends on accelerating innovation to reduce the carbon footprint across its entire lifecycle.
- A Dual-Track Journey is Essential: The sector must concurrently optimise current manufacturing and construction processes and invest in future-ready solutions such as ‘green steel’.
- Informed Material Selection is a Powerful Lever: Specifying certified sustainable products, supported by robust frameworks like the Singapore Green Building Product (SGBP) certification scheme, is a direct and impactful way to drive sustainable project outcomes.
SGBC extends its gratitude to the speakers, co-hosts, and all participants for a rich exchange of knowledge. The collective expertise and shared commitment in the room are pivotal forces propelling the building and construction sector towards a low-carbon future.
