Outokumpu and Alstom Partner to Drive Sustainability with Green Stainless Steel in Metro Cars

In a groundbreaking step toward sustainable urban transport, Outokumpu, a global leader in sustainable stainless steel production, has joined forces with Alstom, one of the world’s leading railway manufacturers. On June 16, 2025, the two companies announced a strategic collaboration to supply low-emission stainless steel for the production of metro trains. This partnership is a major milestone, showcasing how green stainless steel can be integrated into large-scale transportation projects to reduce environmental impact.

Alstom, renowned for its commitment to greener mobility, will use Outokumpu's low-emission stainless steel in the construction of modern metro cars. By doing so, both companies aim to significantly cut the carbon footprint of train manufacturing while promoting the broader use of sustainable materials in the railway industry.

What Is Green Stainless Steel?

Green stainless steel refers to stainless steel that is produced with significantly lower carbon emissions compared to conventional processes. Outokumpu's green stainless steel, marketed under the brand Circle Green, boasts a carbon footprint that is up to 93% lower than the global industry average. This is achieved by combining:

• Over 90% recycled steel content

• Low-carbon electricity (primarily hydro and nuclear energy)

• Efficient and optimized production techniques

Outokumpu's production facilities in Finland have been at the forefront of this green transition, leveraging clean energy and advanced recycling processes to set a new standard for stainless steel sustainability.

Why This Matters to the Stainless Steel Industry

The collaboration between Alstom and Outokumpu represents more than just a business deal—it signals a shift in how industries perceive and utilize stainless steel. As the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) and global decarbonization efforts intensify, demand for low-emission materials like Circle Green is expected to rise across sectors.

Stainless steel is widely used in transportation, construction, food processing, and renewable energy infrastructure. Green stainless steel offers a viable pathway for these industries to meet their Scope 3 emissions reduction targets, which include emissions from materials and supply chains.

The Future of Green Stainless Steel

Outokumpu’s green stainless steel initiative demonstrates that sustainability and industrial performance can go hand-in-hand. With applications ranging from metro cars to building facades and industrial pipelines, Circle Green is paving the way for a lower-carbon future.

At YES Stainless International, we are closely monitoring these industry developments. As a global stainless steel supplier committed to sustainability and innovation, we recognize the importance of sourcing and promoting environmentally responsible materials.