Vale has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with POSCO in which both agreed to pursue opportunities to develop ironmaking solutions focused on reducing CO2 emissions.

Vale and POSCO intend to develop solutions for decarbonization in ironmaking and are under discussion to find the most suitable pathways by using Vale’s wide range of product portfolio, including high-grade iron ore products such as pellets, fines and briquettes, as a potential solution for reducing fossil fuel consumption, that aim to bring a remarkable contribution to the POSCO's roadmap to reach the carbon neutrality in integrated steel production process by 2050.

Mr. Marcello Spinelli, Vale’s Executive Vice President, Iron Ore, and Mr. Hagdong Kim, POSCO’s Head of Steel Business Unit attended the MoU virtual signing ceremony on November 4th, 2021. As per his speech, Mr. Spinelli said “Steel and mining industry are already under transformation to develop low carbon solutions, and we are happy to be with POSCO on this journey. The decarbonization pathway definition will be critical to set how the industry will meet Paris Agreement’s targets and deliver an important legacy to society and our planet. Vale is well positioned to lead the industry with our high-quality and world-class portfolio and with innovative technologies.”.

Mr. Kim, POSCO’s Head of Steel Business Unit affirmed: “Both companies have the goal to achieve carbon net-zero by 2050, an important social responsibility that we must fulfill as members of society. Instead of trying alone, if we work together, we will create more synergy. By signing the MOU, I look forward to greater synergy between Vale and POSCO toward carbon neutrality.”.

This initiative contributes to achieving Vale’s commitment to reduce 15% of net Scope 3 emissions by 2035. Additionally, Vale seeks to reduce its absolute Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 33% by 2030 and achieve neutrality by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement, leading the evolution process towards low carbon mining.

About POSCO

POSCO is a Korean steel company which has been chosen as the most competitive steelmaker in the world for 11 consecutive years by World Steel Dynamics. POSCO announced its plans for the carbon neutrality, reducing 20% greenhouse gas emission by 2030, 50% by 2040, and achieving net-zero by 2050.