The Technological and Social Transformation of the European Steel Industry: Towards Decarbonisation and Digitalisation

In this chapter we touch on the supranational developments that gave rise to the notion of a European steel industry, and thereby set the context for a discussion of its technological and social transformation. We discuss more broadly technological and social change and innovation across the sector in Europe, and in view of its developments reflect on the (social) consequences for the workforce. The chapter also reflects on the dynamics of restructuring and privatisation, as well as the internationalisation and globalisation of the industry. This broader discussion sets the background for a brief overview analysis of more recent innovations and the ‘twin challenges’ of digitalisationDigitalisation, so-called Industry 4.0Industry 4.0, and decarbonisationDecarbonisation, which together—it might be argued—represent a paradigmatic shift in the industry both technologically and socially. With regard to the ‘twin challenges’ we draw on data from two research projects, European Steel Skills Agenda (ESSA) and Preparing for a Just Transition, to inform some of the discussion.