DEVELOPMENT OF GHG EMISSION MONITORING AND REPORTING PLAN

DEVELOPMENT OF GHG EMISSION MONITORING AND REPORTING PLAN

 

July 4, 2024

In the past six months, HBIS Serbia has developed a monitoring plan and submitted a request for a permit to release greenhouse gases to the Ministry of Environmental Protection, in accordance with the Climate Change Act that came into force in 2021.

The team initially involved with the CBAM directive continued to monitor national legislation and, immediately after the adoption of by-laws regulating the monitoring plan for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, began implementation. A monitoring plan was created, encompassing numerous procedures, work, and technological instructions confirming each item of the plan. The calculation methodology is largely based on a mass balance, where the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted is calculated based on the amount of carbon entering and leaving the factory, while a measurement-based methodology is applied at the Power plant. The factory has identified 20 source flows, 36 measuring instruments that record data, and 7 laboratory methods are used.

For example, for the boilers of the Power plant, the measurement methodology will be applied since a continuous measuring device that continuously measures the amount of CO2 is installed at that location. So far, the team has developed a monitoring, calculation, and reporting plan in accordance with our laws, and two reports have been completed and submitted to customers in the EU according to the directive. One of our future tasks is to define goals and strategies, create an energy efficiency plan, and develop projects to reduce CO2 emissions. Thanks to the completed capital projects, blast furnace gas is no longer burned, which has contributed to better efficiency and reduced carbon dioxide emissions into the air. Proactive action is significant in this business; we must always be one step ahead when it comes to our energy efficiency, and the other way is through the development of new technologies,” said Ljubica Drake, General Manager of the Environmental Protection Sector.

HBIS is the only company that developed this plan independently, without engaging external consulting firms, which is very rare given the size of the industry. The monitoring plan has been submitted to the relevant ministry, which will review it, and a permit should be issued within 9 months from the submission of the complete request.

DEVELOPMENT OF GHG EMISSION MONITORING AND REPORTING PLAN

 

July 4, 2024

In the past six months, HBIS Serbia has developed a monitoring plan and submitted a request for a permit to release greenhouse gases to the Ministry of Environmental Protection, in accordance with the Climate Change Act that came into force in 2021.

The team initially involved with the CBAM directive continued to monitor national legislation and, immediately after the adoption of by-laws regulating the monitoring plan for greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, began implementation. A monitoring plan was created, encompassing numerous procedures, work, and technological instructions confirming each item of the plan. The calculation methodology is largely based on a mass balance, where the amount of carbon dioxide (CO2) emitted is calculated based on the amount of carbon entering and leaving the factory, while a measurement-based methodology is applied at the Power plant. The factory has identified 20 source flows, 36 measuring instruments that record data, and 7 laboratory methods are used.

For example, for the boilers of the Power plant, the measurement methodology will be applied since a continuous measuring device that continuously measures the amount of CO2 is installed at that location. So far, the team has developed a monitoring, calculation, and reporting plan in accordance with our laws, and two reports have been completed and submitted to customers in the EU according to the directive. One of our future tasks is to define goals and strategies, create an energy efficiency plan, and develop projects to reduce CO2 emissions. Thanks to the completed capital projects, blast furnace gas is no longer burned, which has contributed to better efficiency and reduced carbon dioxide emissions into the air. Proactive action is significant in this business; we must always be one step ahead when it comes to our energy efficiency, and the other way is through the development of new technologies,” said Ljubica Drake, General Manager of the Environmental Protection Sector.

HBIS is the only company that developed this plan independently, without engaging external consulting firms, which is very rare given the size of the industry. The monitoring plan has been submitted to the relevant ministry, which will review it, and a permit should be issued within 9 months from the submission of the complete request.

HBIS SERBIA PLATINUM DONOR OF THE 31st, ECOTER

HBIS SERBIA PLATINUM DONOR OF THE 31st. ECOTER

 

June 19, 2024

Organized by the Technical Faculty of the BU in Bor, in Sokobanja, the three-days EcoTER’24 conference (Ecological Truth and Environmental Research) was officially opened Sokobanja, on July 19. The conference was attended by numerous experts, researchers and industry representatives from the country, region and world, who gathered to exchange academic and practical knowledge and experience in the field of environmental protection.

HBIS Serbia, as a platinum donor of this conference, had the honor to present the company, investments and measurable improvements in the fields of environmental protection, energy efficiency and savings to an expert audience, after commissioning of the three new production lines in 2022.

Environmental protection is a regional and global challenge and continuous steps are needed in order to achieve significant results, said Ljubica Drake, general manager of environmental protection at HBIS Serbia. She emphasized the importance of joint work and cooperation between higher education institutions – faculties and the economy, because this is how answers to numerous current questions in this field can be found, and scientific gatherings such as this conference make a significant contribution to this. She reminded those present that environmental protection is the responsibility of society, but of each individual as well.

„Our new production lines, which have been operating for two years, already have brought immediate improvements in environmental protection and energy efficiency. Thanks to the Blast Furnace Gas Holder, we are now fully returning BF gas to production, the new Walking Beam Furnace at the Hot Strip Mill uses it in 100%, and the improvements brought by the operation of the New Sinter Line can also be seen at the Automatic Measuring Station in Radinac, which we donated to the Environmental Protection Agency in order to have quality monitoring. We have continuous meters on eight emitters in the factory, and we have installed alarms on them that warn the operators in the event that the half-hour limit values of the emission may be exceeded. With this and other measures we took in the factory, such as road maintenance, control of the unloading of raw materials and ores, the quality of the ambient air was significantly improved, and the annual reduction of dust expressed in kilograms per ton is drastic. Last year, the annual value of PM 10 particles was for the first time below the legal limit of up to 50 micrograms per cubic meter, amounting to 36.85 micrograms/m3. For the project of installing alarms on continuous meters, we received support and an award from UNDP. Also our company obtained an integrated permit for the Smederevo location since August 2022,” said Ljubica Drake and concluded: “I invite you all to visit our factory, to see for yourselves how its modernization contributes to the environment, and to present you with our future plans. HBIS Serbia is proud of its role in improving environmental standards and working on sustainable solutions that will contribute to a better and healthier future for everyone.”

On behalf of the Organizing Committee, Prof. Dr. Ana Radojević presented Ljubica Drake with a Certificate of appreciation for the contribution and participation of HBIS Serbia at the 31st, EcoTER’24 conference.

The students and organizers of the meeting were also greeted by Prof. Dr. Dejan Tanikić, Dean of the Technical Faculty in Bor. He emphasized that he is very proud of the long tradition of this conference, its academic level and the valuable exchange of experiences contributed by all the participants and donors of the EcoTER conference.

HBIS SERBIA PLATINUM DONOR OF THE 31st. ECOTER

 

June 19, 2024

Organized by the Technical Faculty of the BU in Bor, in Sokobanja, the three-days EcoTER’24 conference (Ecological Truth and Environmental Research) was officially opened Sokobanja, on July 19. The conference was attended by numerous experts, researchers and industry representatives from the country, region and world, who gathered to exchange academic and practical knowledge and experience in the field of environmental protection.

HBIS Serbia, as a platinum donor of this conference, had the honor to present the company, investments and measurable improvements in the fields of environmental protection, energy efficiency and savings to an expert audience, after commissioning of the three new production lines in 2022.

Environmental protection is a regional and global challenge and continuous steps are needed in order to achieve significant results, said Ljubica Drake, general manager of environmental protection at HBIS Serbia. She emphasized the importance of joint work and cooperation between higher education institutions – faculties and the economy, because this is how answers to numerous current questions in this field can be found, and scientific gatherings such as this conference make a significant contribution to this. She reminded those present that environmental protection is the responsibility of society, but of each individual as well.

„Our new production lines, which have been operating for two years, already have brought immediate improvements in environmental protection and energy efficiency. Thanks to the Blast Furnace Gas Holder, we are now fully returning BF gas to production, the new Walking Beam Furnace at the Hot Strip Mill uses it in 100%, and the improvements brought by the operation of the New Sinter Line can also be seen at the Automatic Measuring Station in Radinac, which we donated to the Environmental Protection Agency in order to have quality monitoring. We have continuous meters on eight emitters in the factory, and we have installed alarms on them that warn the operators in the event that the half-hour limit values of the emission may be exceeded. With this and other measures we took in the factory, such as road maintenance, control of the unloading of raw materials and ores, the quality of the ambient air was significantly improved, and the annual reduction of dust expressed in kilograms per ton is drastic. Last year, the annual value of PM 10 particles was for the first time below the legal limit of up to 50 micrograms per cubic meter, amounting to 36.85 micrograms/m3. For the project of installing alarms on continuous meters, we received support and an award from UNDP. Also our company obtained an integrated permit for the Smederevo location since August 2022,” said Ljubica Drake and concluded: “I invite you all to visit our factory, to see for yourselves how its modernization contributes to the environment, and to present you with our future plans. HBIS Serbia is proud of its role in improving environmental standards and working on sustainable solutions that will contribute to a better and healthier future for everyone.”

On behalf of the Organizing Committee, Prof. Dr. Ana Radojević presented Ljubica Drake with a Certificate of appreciation for the contribution and participation of HBIS Serbia at the 31st, EcoTER’24 conference.

The students and organizers of the meeting were also greeted by Prof. Dr. Dejan Tanikić, Dean of the Technical Faculty in Bor. He emphasized that he is very proud of the long tradition of this conference, its academic level and the valuable exchange of experiences contributed by all the participants and donors of the EcoTER conference.

ZELENI ČELIK – CILJ KOMPANIJE HBIS SERBIA I CBAM DIREKTIVA

ZELENI ČELIK – CILJ KOMPANIJE HBIS SERBIA I CBAM DIREKTIVA

 

5. jun 2024.

U Smederevu je, 5. juna, održana treća sednica Sekcije za metaloprerađivačku delatnost Regionalne privredne komore Braničevskog i Podunavskog upravnog okruga, na kojoj je Ljubica Drejk, generalna menadžerka Zaštite životne sredine u HBIS Serbia govorila o tome šta je urađeno na temu zelenog čelika, emisija sa efektom staklene bašte, o početku izveštavanja naše kompanije po CBAM-u i brojnim izazovima.

Ljubica Drejk je naglasila da u vezi sa CBAM-om (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism) – mehanizmom prekograničnog usklađivanja cene ugljenika, različite industrije moraju da sarađuju i rade zajednički na problemima, jer „ako agresivno pravimo planove, koje je nemoguće ostvariti, bojim se da će industrija naše zemlje stati”. Naglasila je potrebu da se preko Privredne komore utiče na nadležna ministarstva i državu da prepoznaju probleme koje kompanije u Srbiji imaju u radu povodom CBAM izveštavanja, kao i generalno sa emisijama sa efektom staklene bašte.

„HBIS je opredeljen za zelenu tranziciju, mi radimo na tome, ali sve to može da bude mnogo lakše uz podršku nadležnih organa. Kina je izuzetno napredna u proizvodnji zelenog čelika u odnosu na ostatak sveta. Da bismo mi ovde mogli da uđemo u kolosek razvijenih železara u Evropi, Kini, Americi, neophodno je da imamo vreme i razumevanje da bismo to sproveli. Podrška se mora ogledati u sagledavanju realne situacije gde se nalazimo, postavljanju realnih ciljeva i rokova za njihovo dostignuće, kao i finansijske podrške. Tako se radi u Evropskoj uniji i isti model treba da se primeni i ovde“, rekla je Drejk.

„U HBIS Serbia smo već uradili investicije koje su dovele do smanjenja količine emitovanog ugljenika. Nova aglolinija, zatim Koračna peć, koja je zamenila rad jedne potisne peći na Toploj valjaonici, koriste isključivo visokopećni gas u svom radu, a taj gas se skladišti u Rezervoaru za visokopećni gas i odatle izuzima. Ove tri investicije su koštale 300 miliona evra. Poboljšali smo uticaj na životnu sredinu, odnosno na emisije gasova sa efektom staklene bašte. U 2022. količina po toni proizvedene toplovaljane trake i table je bila 2,8 tona CO2, a 2023. godine je pala na 2,3 tone CO2 po toni proizvedene toplovaljane trake i table“, ilustrovala je Ljubica postignuta poboljšanja.

Govorila je zatim o merama za smanjenje ugljenika u procesima proizvodnje i rekla da je za realizaciju srednjoročnih i dugoročnih mera neophodna strategija razvoja i podrška države. „Uveli smo kratkoročne mere, koje ne zahtevaju velika ulaganja. Od januara postoji tim za unapređenje energetske efikasnosti, koji smo oformili da radi na iskorišćenju energenata i sirovina. I već na Visokoj peći imamo 18 kg koksa po toni gvožđa manje, samo zahvaljujući praksama upravljanja. Mnoge investicije su nam i u planu. Krenuli smo u razvoj srednjoročnih mera za smanjnje gasova sa efektom staklene bašte. To su kapitalni projekti na već postojećim postrojenjima, recimo zamena konvertora u Čeličani savremenijim. Dugoročne mere bi bile uvođenje novih tehnologija za proizvodnju niskokaloričnih ugljenika za proizvodnju čelika. Nadamo se da će Srbija podržati tu zelenu tranziciju“, rekla je Drejk i na kraju je prisutne upoznala sa novim tehnologijama koje postoje u Kini.

O aktuelnoj temi CBAM-a sveobuhvatne informacije dala je Ana Raičević iz Privredne komore Srbije, sekretar Udruženja za metaloprerađivačku industriju, a potom je odgovorila na brojna pitanja. Kompanije iz metalskog sektora su među prvima pogođene potrebom izveštavanja, kao i njihovi dobavljači.
Patrik Van Mensel, predsednik Sekcije za metaloprerađivačku delatnost Regionalne privredne komore za Braničevski i Podunavski okrug je ocenio da je dosta izazova pred nama zbog kojih ova sekcija može da utiče na Privrednu komoru Srbije da se napravi strategija kako da se problemi ovih industrija rešavaju i prevaziđu. „Izvesno je da će CBAM poskupeti cenu naših proizvoda, a treba naći način kako da ostanemo konkurentni u poređenju sa firmama koje su već u EU”, zaključio je Mensel.

GREEN STEEL – THE GOAL OF HBIS SERBIA AND THE CBAM DIRECTIVE

GREEN STEEL – THE GOAL OF HBIS SERBIA AND THE CBAM DIRECTIVE

 

June 5, 2024

The third session of the Metal Processing Section of the Regional Chamber of Commerce for the Braničevo and Podunavlje administrative districts was held in Smederevo on June 5. Ljubica Drake, the General Manager of Environmental Protection at HBIS Serbia, spoke about the company’s efforts on green steel, greenhouse gas emissions, the initiation of the company’s reporting under CBAM, and numerous challenges.

Ljubica Drejk emphasized that regarding CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism), different industries must collaborate and work together on these issues, stating, “If we make plans aggressively, for which we know wont be able to achive, I fear that our country’s industry will come to a halt.” She stressed the need to influence relevant ministries and the government through the Chamber of Commerce to recognize the problems that companies in Serbia face concerning CBAM reporting and GHG emission in general.

“HBIS Serbia is committed to green transition; we are working on it, but all this can be much easier with the support of the relevant authorities. China is extremely advanced in green steel production compared to the rest of the world. For us to be able to catch up with the developed steel industries in Europe, China, and America, we need time and understanding to implement this. Support has to be in realisticly analised the situation where we are currently, set the realistic goals and dead line for achiving them, as well financial support. That is the princip in EU and same model should be implemented here as well” Drake said.

“At HBIS Serbia, we have already made investments that have led to a reduction in carbon emissions. The New Sinter Line and the Walking Beam Furnace, which replaced a push furnace at the Hot Strip Mill, use exclusively blast furnace gas, stored in the Blast Furnace Gas Tank and withdrawn from there. These three investments cost 300 million euros. We have improved our environmental impact, particularly on greenhouse gas emissions. In 2022, the amount of CO2 per ton of hot-rolled coil and sheet produced was 2.8 tons, and in 2023 it dropped to 2.3 tons of CO2 per ton,” Ljubica illustrated the improvements achieved.

She also mentioned carbon reduction measures in production processes, stating that a development strategy and state support are necessary for implementing medium and long-term measures. “We have introduced short-term measures that do not require significant investments. Since January, we have had a team for improving energy efficiency, which we formed to work on the utilization of energy and raw materials. At the Blast Furnace, we already have 18 kg less coke per ton of iron, thanks only to management practices. We also have many investments planned. We have started developing medium-term measures to reduce greenhouse gases, such as capital projects on existing facilities, like replacing the converter at the Steel Mill with a more modern one. Long-term measures would involve introducing new technologies for the production of low-carbon steel. We hope that Serbia will support this green transition,” Drake said, concluding by informing attendees about the new technologies available in China.

Ana Raičević from the Chamber of Commerce of Serbia, the secretary of the Association for the Metal Processing Industry, provided comprehensive information on the current CBAM topic and then answered numerous questions. Companies in the metal sector are among the first affected by the need for reporting, as are their suppliers.
Patrick Van Menssel, president of the Metal Processing Section of the Chamber of Commerce for the Braničevo and Podunavlje districts, assessed that there are many challenges ahead, which this section can influence through the Chamber of Commerce to create a strategy on how to solve and overcome these industry’s problems. “It is certain that CBAM will increase the cost of our products, and we need to find a way to remain competitive compared to companies already in the EU,” concluded Menssel.

GREEN STEEL – THE GOAL OF HBIS SERBIA AND THE CBAM DIRECTIVE

 

June 5, 2024

The third session of the Metal Processing Section of the Regional Chamber of Commerce for the Braničevo and Podunavlje administrative districts was held in Smederevo on June 5. Ljubica Drake, the General Manager of Environmental Protection at HBIS Serbia, spoke about the company’s efforts on green steel, greenhouse gas emissions, the initiation of the company’s reporting under CBAM, and numerous challenges.

Ljubica Drejk emphasized that regarding CBAM (Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism), different industries must collaborate and work together on these issues, stating, “If we make plans aggressively, for which we know wont be able to achive, I fear that our country’s industry will come to a halt.” She stressed the need to influence relevant ministries and the government through the Chamber of Commerce to recognize the problems that companies in Serbia face concerning CBAM reporting and GHG emission in general.

“HBIS Serbia is committed to green transition; we are working on it, but all this can be much easier with the support of the relevant authorities. China is extremely advanced in green steel production compared to the rest of the world. For us to be able to catch up with the developed steel industries in Europe, China, and America, we need time and understanding to implement this. Support has to be in realisticly analised the situation where we are currently, set the realistic goals and dead line for achiving them, as well financial support. That is the princip in EU and same model should be implemented here as well” Drake said.

“At HBIS Serbia, we have already made investments that have led to a reduction in carbon emissions. The New Sinter Line and the Walking Beam Furnace, which replaced a push furnace at the Hot Strip Mill, use exclusively blast furnace gas, stored in the Blast Furnace Gas Tank and withdrawn from there. These three investments cost 300 million euros. We have improved our environmental impact, particularly on greenhouse gas emissions. In 2022, the amount of CO2 per ton of hot-rolled coil and sheet produced was 2.8 tons, and in 2023 it dropped to 2.3 tons of CO2 per ton,” Ljubica illustrated the improvements achieved.

She also mentioned carbon reduction measures in production processes, stating that a development strategy and state support are necessary for implementing medium and long-term measures. “We have introduced short-term measures that do not require significant investments. Since January, we have had a team for improving energy efficiency, which we formed to work on the utilization of energy and raw materials. At the Blast Furnace, we already have 18 kg less coke per ton of iron, thanks only to management practices. We also have many investments planned. We have started developing medium-term measures to reduce greenhouse gases, such as capital projects on existing facilities, like replacing the converter at the Steel Mill with a more modern one. Long-term measures would involve introducing new technologies for the production of low-carbon steel. We hope that Serbia will support this green transition,” Drake said, concluding by informing attendees about the new technologies available in China.

Ana Raičević from the Chamber of Commerce of Serbia, the secretary of the Association for the Metal Processing Industry, provided comprehensive information on the current CBAM topic and then answered numerous questions. Companies in the metal sector are among the first affected by the need for reporting, as are their suppliers.
Patrick Van Menssel, president of the Metal Processing Section of the Chamber of Commerce for the Braničevo and Podunavlje districts, assessed that there are many challenges ahead, which this section can influence through the Chamber of Commerce to create a strategy on how to solve and overcome these industry’s problems. “It is certain that CBAM will increase the cost of our products, and we need to find a way to remain competitive compared to companies already in the EU,” concluded Menssel.

PROGRESS IN THE FIELDS OF EDUCATION AND ECONOMY

PROGRESS IN THE FIELDS OF EDUCATION AND ECONOMY

 

May 8, 2024

During the visit of the high delegation of the People’s Republic of China led by President Xi Jinping, a significant step forward was made in the fields of education and economy when a Memorandum of Understanding between HBIS Serbia and the Office for dual education and the National framework of qualifications was signed in the Government of the Republic of Serbia, on May 8.

The memorandum was signed by Prof. Dr. Gabrijela Grujić, the director of the Office for dual education and Song Sihai, director of the HBIS Serbia. This document represents the foundation of future cooperation and joint work on the creation of innovative educational programs in the field of metallurgy, both at the secondary and higher education levels.

“Today we took a big step towards strengthening cooperation between Serbia and China, as well as between education and business, with the belief that this memorandum will contribute to this company becoming a leader in innovation and development of the metallurgical industry. Our common vision is that the educational system of Serbia responds to the needs of the economy by creating personnel ready to face the challenges of modern industry,” said director Song.

Prof. Dr. Gabrijela Grujić emphasized that the initiative of joint friendship and future cooperation will be reflected in the creation of modern programs at the level of secondary and higher education in the field of metallurgy, for young people who will choose HBIS Serbia and make it strong and innovative for the future.

PROGRESS IN THE FIELDS OF EDUCATION AND ECONOMY

 

May 8, 2024

During the visit of the high delegation of the People’s Republic of China led by President Xi Jinping, a significant step forward was made in the fields of education and economy when a Memorandum of Understanding between HBIS Serbia and the Office for dual education and the National framework of qualifications was signed in the Government of the Republic of Serbia, on May 8.

The memorandum was signed by Prof. Dr. Gabrijela Grujić, the director of the Office for dual education and Song Sihai, director of the HBIS Serbia. This document represents the foundation of future cooperation and joint work on the creation of innovative educational programs in the field of metallurgy, both at the secondary and higher education levels.

“Today we took a big step towards strengthening cooperation between Serbia and China, as well as between education and business, with the belief that this memorandum will contribute to this company becoming a leader in innovation and development of the metallurgical industry. Our common vision is that the educational system of Serbia responds to the needs of the economy by creating personnel ready to face the challenges of modern industry,” said director Song.

Prof. Dr. Gabrijela Grujić emphasized that the initiative of joint friendship and future cooperation will be reflected in the creation of modern programs at the level of secondary and higher education in the field of metallurgy, for young people who will choose HBIS Serbia and make it strong and innovative for the future.

HBIS GLOBAL COOPERATION CONFERENCE ON GREEN & INTELLIGENT SUPPLY CHAIN

HBIS GLOBAL COOPERATION CONFERENCE ON GREEN & INTELLIGENT SUPPLY CHAIN

 

April 16, 2024

On April 16, 2024, in Belgrade, the HBIS (Serbia) Global cooperation conference on green & intelligent supply chain was held. With a more open approach, HBIS (Serbia) discussed the future development path of steel with global partners. The conference was inaugurated by Yu Yong, the chairman of the HBIS Group, and Jelena Begović, the Minister of Science and Technology of the Republic of Serbia.

The conference attracted global companies such as Siemens, Haier Group, Jianfa Group, Primetals, Danieli, Hasco, and Tenovo, reflecting the increasing investment appeal of Serbia. Serbia fully recognizes the important role that similar international conferences play in promoting dialogue among industry leaders and establishing strategic partnerships. We believe that this conference will become a valuable platform for achieving win-win cooperation.

President Yu Yong expressed his gratitude to global strategic partners for their great trust and long-term support to HBIS in his opening speech. He highlighted that the current technological revolution is accelerating the restructuring of global supply chains, and green and smart themes have become main topics of global industrial development. “Today, we are focused on deepening cooperation in the supply chain with green intelligence in Serbia. This is a living practice of promoting industrial integration and development through technological innovations, promoting global industrial green transformation and intelligent upgrading. Globalization maximizes the access of different countries, regions, and companies to the best resources and cooperation methods. HBIS Group has full confidence in global cooperation, and the restructuring of the global supply chain taking into account green, smart, and low carbon emissions has brought us new opportunities for cooperation in all aspects. HBIS is willing to explore better ways of cooperation and achieving stronger strategic synergy with global partners in Europe and Serbia, while contributing wisdom and strength to promote a greener, low-carbon, and smarter global industry,” said Yu Yong.

Jelena Begović, representing the Ministry of Science and Technology of Serbia, noted that the conference is a significant step for the steel industry in promoting advanced green and intelligent solutions, intelligent supply chains, and green transformation, and that it fits well into the “Belt and Road” initiative. “The theme ‘Meeting with Serbia, joining in building a green and intelligent supply chain’ reflects the desire of the scientific and industrial community to explore and develop innovative solutions and best practices, making the industry more efficient and contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals. The production of green steel can reduce the carbon footprint and negative impact on the environment. HBIS recognizes the importance of responsible production and strives to make its production process greener through the application of science, knowledge innovations, and other means. With green solutions, we can reduce pollution, ultimately benefiting all citizens of our planet,” said Begović. The Minister expressed hope that everyone could strengthen cooperation and work together towards the goal of sustainable development in the future.

Daniel Rui Felicio spoke about empowering digital and sustainable transformation and introduced the core business of Siemens Avende and Siemens Serbia. “The application of digital and intelligent new technologies is at the heart of addressing the challenges of supply chain transformation. We hope that the cooperation between Siemens and HBIS can inspire everyone to further accelerate transformation and change, jointly address the huge challenges we face, and contribute more to the collective creation of green and intelligent supply chains,” said Felicio.

President of the Republic of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, in a congratulatory message to the president of HBIS, noted that the HBIS (Serbia) Conference with the theme “Meet in Serbia, build green & intelligent supply chain together” is a commendable event that understands the future of Serbia.

The conference was jointly organized by HBIS and Siemens with the goal of promoting top-tier, intelligent, and green development of the manufacturing industry and fostering the construction of global green and intelligent supply chains.

The conference was attended by directors of the HBIS Group, representatives from the Department of Technological Innovations, HBIS Institute for Iron and Steel, HBIS Serbia, Dahe Metal, and HBIS Duferco, representative of the Belgrade Belt and Road Institute, as well as representatives of Haier, Primetals, Danieli, Tenovo, Jianfa Group, Ministry of Science and Technology, Harsco, and the University of Belgrade.

HBIS GLOBAL COOPERATION CONFERENCE ON GREEN & INTELLIGENT SUPPLY CHAIN

 

April 16, 2024

On April 16, 2024, in Belgrade, the HBIS (Serbia) Global cooperation conference on green & intelligent supply chain was held. With a more open approach, HBIS (Serbia) discussed the future development path of steel with global partners. The conference was inaugurated by Yu Yong, the chairman of the HBIS Group, and Jelena Begović, the Minister of Science and Technology of the Republic of Serbia.

The conference attracted global companies such as Siemens, Haier Group, Jianfa Group, Primetals, Danieli, Hasco, and Tenovo, reflecting the increasing investment appeal of Serbia. Serbia fully recognizes the important role that similar international conferences play in promoting dialogue among industry leaders and establishing strategic partnerships. We believe that this conference will become a valuable platform for achieving win-win cooperation.

President Yu Yong expressed his gratitude to global strategic partners for their great trust and long-term support to HBIS in his opening speech. He highlighted that the current technological revolution is accelerating the restructuring of global supply chains, and green and smart themes have become main topics of global industrial development. “Today, we are focused on deepening cooperation in the supply chain with green intelligence in Serbia. This is a living practice of promoting industrial integration and development through technological innovations, promoting global industrial green transformation and intelligent upgrading. Globalization maximizes the access of different countries, regions, and companies to the best resources and cooperation methods. HBIS Group has full confidence in global cooperation, and the restructuring of the global supply chain taking into account green, smart, and low carbon emissions has brought us new opportunities for cooperation in all aspects. HBIS is willing to explore better ways of cooperation and achieving stronger strategic synergy with global partners in Europe and Serbia, while contributing wisdom and strength to promote a greener, low-carbon, and smarter global industry,” said Yu Yong.

Jelena Begović, representing the Ministry of Science and Technology of Serbia, noted that the conference is a significant step for the steel industry in promoting advanced green and intelligent solutions, intelligent supply chains, and green transformation, and that it fits well into the “Belt and Road” initiative. “The theme ‘Meeting with Serbia, joining in building a green and intelligent supply chain’ reflects the desire of the scientific and industrial community to explore and develop innovative solutions and best practices, making the industry more efficient and contributing to the achievement of sustainable development goals. The production of green steel can reduce the carbon footprint and negative impact on the environment. HBIS recognizes the importance of responsible production and strives to make its production process greener through the application of science, knowledge innovations, and other means. With green solutions, we can reduce pollution, ultimately benefiting all citizens of our planet,” said Begović. The Minister expressed hope that everyone could strengthen cooperation and work together towards the goal of sustainable development in the future.

Daniel Rui Felicio spoke about empowering digital and sustainable transformation and introduced the core business of Siemens Avende and Siemens Serbia. “The application of digital and intelligent new technologies is at the heart of addressing the challenges of supply chain transformation. We hope that the cooperation between Siemens and HBIS can inspire everyone to further accelerate transformation and change, jointly address the huge challenges we face, and contribute more to the collective creation of green and intelligent supply chains,” said Felicio.

President of the Republic of Serbia, Aleksandar Vučić, in a congratulatory message to the president of HBIS, noted that the HBIS (Serbia) Conference with the theme “Meet in Serbia, build green & intelligent supply chain together” is a commendable event that understands the future of Serbia.

The conference was jointly organized by HBIS and Siemens with the goal of promoting top-tier, intelligent, and green development of the manufacturing industry and fostering the construction of global green and intelligent supply chains.

The conference was attended by directors of the HBIS Group, representatives from the Department of Technological Innovations, HBIS Institute for Iron and Steel, HBIS Serbia, Dahe Metal, and HBIS Duferco, representative of the Belgrade Belt and Road Institute, as well as representatives of Haier, Primetals, Danieli, Tenovo, Jianfa Group, Ministry of Science and Technology, Harsco, and the University of Belgrade.

JOINT TREE PLANTING – A GREEN STEP TOWARDS A BETTER FUTURE

JOINT TREE PLANTING – A GREEN STEP TOWARDS A BETTER FUTURE

 

March 27, 2024

In the spirit of a joint contribution to environmental preservation and the development of ecological awareness among young people, representatives of HBIS Serbia together with students and teachers organized in the City Student Parliament of Smederevo’s primary and secondary schools, successfully carried out an action of planting 26 coniferous and ornamental deciduous tree saplings today in the courtyard of the Primary School “Ivo Andrić” in Radinac.

This activity, part of the broader “Development of Young People’s Ecological Culture” project, is aimed at promoting ecological values through joint work and team synergy. Geography professor and coordinator of the City Student Parliament, Boris Zdravković, highlighted the importance of cooperation with HBIS Serbia, which enabled the realization of this valuable initiative through the donation of saplings. He mentioned that this was the second joint activity within the project framework and reminded of the beginning of cooperation that started with discussions with experts from the steel plant: “In a lecture held two months ago, facts dispelled our prejudices. We realized that there are multiple polluters, and their practice is very educational and beneficial. We are glad that the initiative of students led to the realization of today’s event.”

Ljubica Drejk, General Manager for Environmental Protection, stated that this practical afforestation action contributes to the improvement of air quality and the aesthetic arrangement of the school courtyard space. Recalling the air quality measurement results, she mentioned that environmental improvement is the result of the direct impact of the work of the New Sinter Line. “The measuring station in Radinac showed much better results in 2023 compared to 2022. Comparing two key parameters – the number of days with PM10 values greater than 50 micrograms per cubic meter and the average annual value of PM10 particles in 2022 and 2023, an improvement is clearly visible. This automatic measuring station recorded 123 days with PM10 particle values greater than 50 µg/m3 in 2022, while in 2023, that number of days was 65. Looking at the average annual value for PM10, in 2022 it was 46.4 µg/m3, while in 2023, for the first time, it was below the legal limit of 40 micrograms per cubic meter! We are not stopping there, we continue to work further, this is just the beginning of the company’s transformation into a green factory,” Drejk emphasized.

Representatives of the City Parliament and hosts from the school in Radinac expressed great satisfaction at the end of the action that they had moved from theory to practice in enhancing environmental protection

HBIS Serbia and project participants hope that this activity will serve as inspiration and incentive for similar initiatives and contribute to the development of ecological awareness and sustainable development practices in the local community.

JOINT TREE PLANTING – A GREEN STEP TOWARDS A BETTER FUTURE

 

March 27, 2024

In the spirit of a joint contribution to environmental preservation and the development of ecological awareness among young people, representatives of HBIS Serbia together with students and teachers organized in the City Student Parliament of Smederevo’s primary and secondary schools, successfully carried out an action of planting 26 coniferous and ornamental deciduous tree saplings today in the courtyard of the Primary School “Ivo Andrić” in Radinac.

This activity, part of the broader “Development of Young People’s Ecological Culture” project, is aimed at promoting ecological values through joint work and team synergy. Geography professor and coordinator of the City Student Parliament, Boris Zdravković, highlighted the importance of cooperation with HBIS Serbia, which enabled the realization of this valuable initiative through the donation of saplings. He mentioned that this was the second joint activity within the project framework and reminded of the beginning of cooperation that started with discussions with experts from the steel plant: “In a lecture held two months ago, facts dispelled our prejudices. We realized that there are multiple polluters, and their practice is very educational and beneficial. We are glad that the initiative of students led to the realization of today’s event.”

Ljubica Drejk, General Manager for Environmental Protection, stated that this practical afforestation action contributes to the improvement of air quality and the aesthetic arrangement of the school courtyard space. Recalling the air quality measurement results, she mentioned that environmental improvement is the result of the direct impact of the work of the New Sinter Line. “The measuring station in Radinac showed much better results in 2023 compared to 2022. Comparing two key parameters – the number of days with PM10 values greater than 50 micrograms per cubic meter and the average annual value of PM10 particles in 2022 and 2023, an improvement is clearly visible. This automatic measuring station recorded 123 days with PM10 particle values greater than 50 µg/m3 in 2022, while in 2023, that number of days was 65. Looking at the average annual value for PM10, in 2022 it was 46.4 µg/m3, while in 2023, for the first time, it was below the legal limit of 40 micrograms per cubic meter! We are not stopping there, we continue to work further, this is just the beginning of the company’s transformation into a green factory,” Drejk emphasized.

Representatives of the City Parliament and hosts from the school in Radinac expressed great satisfaction at the end of the action that they had moved from theory to practice in enhancing environmental protection

HBIS Serbia and project participants hope that this activity will serve as inspiration and incentive for similar initiatives and contribute to the development of ecological awareness and sustainable development practices in the local community.

TRANSPARENCY IN OPERATIONS AND OPEN DIALOGUE WITH NEIGHBORS

TRANSPARENCY IN OPERATIONS AND OPEN DIALOGUE WITH NEIGHBORS

 

February 5, 2024

The management of HBIS SERBIA met today with representatives of the local communities Vranovo, Radinac, and Ralja to present the results achieved in the field of environmental protection and plans for the coming period.

Deputy General Director Lianxi Wang emphasized that environmental protection remains a priority in the company’s operations. “We continuously work on improvements, as confirmed by capital investments launched in 2022, which have already led to the best historical results last year. The average value of PM10 particles was below the EU standards for the first time, and the number of days has never been below 100, but we reached 65. This does not mean that we are satisfied and that we will stop, because there is always room for improvement. We are strategically focused on using the latest available technologies in the field of environmental protection, because our plans are long-term and we will not fail our promises,” Wang highlighted.

The Environmental Protection General Manager, Ljubica Drake, presented the improvements achieved in 2023 through other investments, including continuous monitoring and alarm systems that allow operators to halt production in case of increased emission values. “Such initiatives raise awareness and responsibility among our employees, and open communication with the community allows for a quick response to potential challenges,” said Drake.

Representatives of the local communities expressed their gratitude for the regular meetings and visible improvements in the environment. They emphasized the importance of open dialogue and transparency in the operations of HBIS SERBIA, which contributes to building mutual trust.

At the end of the meeting, the management of HBIS SERBIA committed to continuous investments in environmental protection technologies and regular public updates on progress and plans. It was also agreed that meetings with community representatives would be held regularly, to better inform the community about further steps and achievements.

TRANSPARENCY IN OPERATIONS AND OPEN DIALOGUE WITH NEIGHBORS

 

February 5, 2024

The management of HBIS SERBIA met today with representatives of the local communities Vranovo, Radinac, and Ralja to present the results achieved in the field of environmental protection and plans for the coming period.

Deputy General Director Lianxi Wang emphasized that environmental protection remains a priority in the company’s operations. “We continuously work on improvements, as confirmed by capital investments launched in 2022, which have already led to the best historical results last year. The average value of PM10 particles was below the EU standards for the first time, and the number of days has never been below 100, but we reached 65. This does not mean that we are satisfied and that we will stop, because there is always room for improvement. We are strategically focused on using the latest available technologies in the field of environmental protection, because our plans are long-term and we will not fail our promises,” Wang highlighted.

The Environmental Protection General Manager, Ljubica Drake, presented the improvements achieved in 2023 through other investments, including continuous monitoring and alarm systems that allow operators to halt production in case of increased emission values. “Such initiatives raise awareness and responsibility among our employees, and open communication with the community allows for a quick response to potential challenges,” said Drake.

Representatives of the local communities expressed their gratitude for the regular meetings and visible improvements in the environment. They emphasized the importance of open dialogue and transparency in the operations of HBIS SERBIA, which contributes to building mutual trust.

At the end of the meeting, the management of HBIS SERBIA committed to continuous investments in environmental protection technologies and regular public updates on progress and plans. It was also agreed that meetings with community representatives would be held regularly, to better inform the community about further steps and achievements.

CONSTANT EFFORTS OF THE COMPANY TO IMPROVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

CONSTANT EFFORTS OF THE COMPANY TO IMPROVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

 

Thursday 01.02.2024

On February 1, 2024, a session of the City Student Parliament of Smederevo’s primary and secondary schools was held at the Primary School Dr. Jovan Cvijić, where, as part of the “Development of Young People’s Ecological Culture” project, what HBIS Serbia Steel Mill is doing in the field of environmental protection was presented. Ljubica Drejk, the company’s general manager of Environmental, presented what has been done so far, the results, goals, and future projects for improving environmental impact and energy efficiency. In an interactive conversation, members of the City Parliament learned mostly about the impact of the steel mill on air, as one of the three main media in this area, besides water and soil. It was stated that the steel mill has 40 emitters with filters from different periods of operation, and the new facilities like the New Sinter Plant are equipped with the best available technologies.

“We constantly strive to reduce the environmental impact to a minimum and, as we do, to comply with the legally prescribed limits that are becoming stricter, and we take measures and investments to continuously improve that impact. The filters we aim for are with dry de-dusting, like we have at the New Sinter Plant, where we actually have a triple de-dusting system. Thanks to this, we emit less than 2 miligrams per cubic meter of dust, while the limits for our heavy industry are 50 mg per cubic meter, so the results are far better than the EU standards. We also have alarms on continuous monitors that warn us if emissions may approach the upper permissible limits in some situations, and they serve to halt production in those cases,” said Ljubica Drejk and mentioned that the factory’s impact on the environment is certainly not the only one, especially during the heating period.

She then emphasized how important it is for the company to follow the results of our facilities’ operations. For this reason, the company bought and donated an automatic measuring station to the Environmental Protection Agency, which is located in Radinac. “We did this, even though it was not our legal obligation. When we built and started the operation of the New Sinter Plant, the measuring station in Radinac immediately showed improvement,” Drejk said, emphasizing that environmental protection is the task of every individual, both employees and those living in the city.

“We constantly invest efforts, which has led to the result that in 2023, for the first time in the history of the factory, the average annual concentration of PM10 particles was less than 40 micrograms per cubic meter – it was 36.85 micrograms per cubic meter,” Drejk highlighted.

Members of the City Student Parliament showed great interest and had numerous questions on this topic, and many answers were provided during the presentation. They were visibly surprised that, contrary to the stories circulated in public, the steel mill invests significant efforts daily in improving its operations and in applying new technologies, which also contributes to the improvement of the environment.

CONSTANT EFFORTS OF THE COMPANY TO IMPROVE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

 

Thursday 01.02.2024

On February 1, 2024, a session of the City Student Parliament of Smederevo’s primary and secondary schools was held at the Primary School Dr. Jovan Cvijić, where, as part of the “Development of Young People’s Ecological Culture” project, what HBIS Serbia Steel Mill is doing in the field of environmental protection was presented. Ljubica Drejk, the company’s general manager of Environmental, presented what has been done so far, the results, goals, and future projects for improving environmental impact and energy efficiency. In an interactive conversation, members of the City Parliament learned mostly about the impact of the steel mill on air, as one of the three main media in this area, besides water and soil. It was stated that the steel mill has 40 emitters with filters from different periods of operation, and the new facilities like the New Sinter Plant are equipped with the best available technologies.

“We constantly strive to reduce the environmental impact to a minimum and, as we do, to comply with the legally prescribed limits that are becoming stricter, and we take measures and investments to continuously improve that impact. The filters we aim for are with dry de-dusting, like we have at the New Sinter Plant, where we actually have a triple de-dusting system. Thanks to this, we emit less than 2 miligrams per cubic meter of dust, while the limits for our heavy industry are 50 mg per cubic meter, so the results are far better than the EU standards. We also have alarms on continuous monitors that warn us if emissions may approach the upper permissible limits in some situations, and they serve to halt production in those cases,” said Ljubica Drejk and mentioned that the factory’s impact on the environment is certainly not the only one, especially during the heating period.

She then emphasized how important it is for the company to follow the results of our facilities’ operations. For this reason, the company bought and donated an automatic measuring station to the Environmental Protection Agency, which is located in Radinac. “We did this, even though it was not our legal obligation. When we built and started the operation of the New Sinter Plant, the measuring station in Radinac immediately showed improvement,” Drejk said, emphasizing that environmental protection is the task of every individual, both employees and those living in the city.

“We constantly invest efforts, which has led to the result that in 2023, for the first time in the history of the factory, the average annual concentration of PM10 particles was less than 40 micrograms per cubic meter – it was 36.85 micrograms per cubic meter,” Drejk highlighted.

Members of the City Student Parliament showed great interest and had numerous questions on this topic, and many answers were provided during the presentation. They were visibly surprised that, contrary to the stories circulated in public, the steel mill invests significant efforts daily in improving its operations and in applying new technologies, which also contributes to the improvement of the environment.

MIHAILOVIĆ: THE STEEL PLANT IN SMEDEREVO IS CONSTRUCTING FACILITIES TO REDUCE POLLUTION

MIHAILOVIĆ: THE STEEL PLANT IN SMEDEREVO IS CONSTRUCTING FACILITIES TO REDUCE POLLUTION

 

Friday 12.01.2024

Executive Director of Operations at HBIS Serbia Vladan Mihailović, stated on RTS that, given the disruptions in the global, especially European metal market, steel production at HBIS Serbia is slightly over 1.1 million tons of cast slabs. However, Blast Furnace No. 1 was idled in mid-2023.

“We continued production with Blast Furnace No. 2, and about 35% of our products are placed in the domestic market. We exported around 10% to former Yugoslav countries, while the rest went to Central and Southeastern European countries – Germany, Italy, Austria, Poland, and France,” said Mihailović.

He mentioned that the company is ready to restart Blast Furnace No. 1 if the steel market and customer needs require it, reminding that many competitors have also partially idled production due to market difficulties.

In March 2022, HBIS Serbia opened a new environmentally friendly facility, and Mihailović emphasized that the new Sinter Plant was built using the most advanced sinter production technology, contributing to improved ecological standards.

“The new Sinter Plant exclusively uses blast furnace gas instead of natural gas and is equipped with state-of-the-art gas purification facilities. We are fully dedicated to improving environmental quality. The IPPC permit we obtained obliges us to adapt our processes to meet the strict requirements of the EU. This year, we will build a protective wall around the open raw material storage, enabling a reduction in emissions of finer ore fractions during unloading. We committed to this during discussions with representatives of local communities, and we will complete it. We will also build Converter No. 4, which will have so-called ‘dry’ purification of converter gases, and we will construct a facility for storing converter gas, which will serve as fuel for other facilities. In the previous investment cycle, we invested over 300 million euros, and the next investment cycle for improving environmental quality and energy efficiency will be significantly larger,” emphasized Mihailović.

He also discussed the achieved improvements in environmental quality in 2023, highlighting measurements from the Automatic Measuring Station in Radinac, near the factory. Mihailović cited a key parameter – the average daily concentration of PM10 particles, emphasizing that in 2022, there were 123 days with an average daily concentration above 50 micrograms. Mihailović emphasized that in 2023, the station recorded nearly double the improvement – 65 days with an average daily concentration exceeding 50 micrograms. “Also, based on transparent results from the automatic measuring station, the average annual concentration of PM10 particles was 48.4 micrograms per cubic meter in 2022, while in 2023, the average concentration decreased to 36.84,” concluded Executive Director of Operations at HBIS Serbia, Vladan Mihailović.

MIHAILOVIĆ: THE STEEL PLANT IN SMEDEREVO IS CONSTRUCTING FACILITIES TO REDUCE POLLUTION

 

Friday 12.01.2024

Executive Director of Operations at HBIS Serbia Vladan Mihailović, stated on RTS that, given the disruptions in the global, especially European metal market, steel production at HBIS Serbia is slightly over 1.1 million tons of cast slabs. However, Blast Furnace No. 1 was idled in mid-2023.

“We continued production with Blast Furnace No. 2, and about 35% of our products are placed in the domestic market. We exported around 10% to former Yugoslav countries, while the rest went to Central and Southeastern European countries – Germany, Italy, Austria, Poland, and France,” said Mihailović.

He mentioned that the company is ready to restart Blast Furnace No. 1 if the steel market and customer needs require it, reminding that many competitors have also partially idled production due to market difficulties.

In March 2022, HBIS Serbia opened a new environmentally friendly facility, and Mihailović emphasized that the new Sinter Plant was built using the most advanced sinter production technology, contributing to improved ecological standards.

“The new Sinter Plant exclusively uses blast furnace gas instead of natural gas and is equipped with state-of-the-art gas purification facilities. We are fully dedicated to improving environmental quality. The IPPC permit we obtained obliges us to adapt our processes to meet the strict requirements of the EU. This year, we will build a protective wall around the open raw material storage, enabling a reduction in emissions of finer ore fractions during unloading. We committed to this during discussions with representatives of local communities, and we will complete it. We will also build Converter No. 4, which will have so-called ‘dry’ purification of converter gases, and we will construct a facility for storing converter gas, which will serve as fuel for other facilities. In the previous investment cycle, we invested over 300 million euros, and the next investment cycle for improving environmental quality and energy efficiency will be significantly larger,” emphasized Mihailović.

He also discussed the achieved improvements in environmental quality in 2023, highlighting measurements from the Automatic Measuring Station in Radinac, near the factory. Mihailović cited a key parameter – the average daily concentration of PM10 particles, emphasizing that in 2022, there were 123 days with an average daily concentration above 50 micrograms. Mihailović emphasized that in 2023, the station recorded nearly double the improvement – 65 days with an average daily concentration exceeding 50 micrograms. “Also, based on transparent results from the automatic measuring station, the average annual concentration of PM10 particles was 48.4 micrograms per cubic meter in 2022, while in 2023, the average concentration decreased to 36.84,” concluded Executive Director of Operations at HBIS Serbia, Vladan Mihailović.