We believe that sustainability starts in our immediate surroundings. We are committed every day to reducing our impact on the environment and being a good neighbor. We do this through targeted investments, innovative solutions, and open dialogue with the community. From reducing dust and noise, to a neighborhood magazine and organizing environmental moments: together we are building a liveable and sustainable future, close to home.
Investing in a better environment
ArcelorMittal Belgium is one of the leaders in environmental performance within the European steel industry. Every year, approximately 10% of our investment budget goes to environmental projects. Our approach has already been recognized with various awards and the Voka charter for sustainable entrepreneurship. We see this as both recognition and an incentive to continue on our sustainable path.
Dust control: a top priority
Thanks to years of investment, our dust emissions today are 94% lower than in the early 1990s. Some key measures:
- New harbor cranes equipped with sprinkler systems and windshields
- Applying a coating of paper cellulose to raw material stockpiles and dust screens to prevent wind erosion
- Renewal and expansion of filters and extraction systems in the blast furnaces and sinter plants
- Barriers (windshields) along the Ghent-Terneuzen canal and Kennedylaan to limit dust emissions
- Intensive sweeping program for dust-free roads
- Warning system tailored to weather conditions
Noise reduction: a silent investment
We make every effort to limit the impact of noise on our surroundings and continuously develop solutions that contribute to a peaceful living environment. For every new project, we calculate the noise level in advance and implement measures to reduce noise from existing sources. Some examples:
- Noise Monitoring Network
We continuously monitor noise levels using fixed measuring points on our site and at some neighbors' locations. This enables us to quickly identify the causes of any noise peaks and take appropriate action. - Noise Barriers
Along the central scrap zone, a 500-meter-long and 9-meter-high noise barrier stands. It is complemented by embankments and containers to keep noise contained within the premises. - Silencers and enclosures
Large noise sources such as fans and cooling installations are equipped with silencers and sound-insulating enclosures. This technology significantly reduces continuous noise and increases the comfort of our neighbors.
In dialogue with our neighbors
We believe in open communication. That is why we regularly organize environmental moments: informal meetings to explain our efforts for the environment, our environmental investments, and a look behind the scenes of innovative projects.
In addition:
- Neighborhood magazine 'Staal in je buurt' (Steel in your neighborhood): delivered to your postbox and available online once or twice a year
- Neighbor survey: to better respond to expectations
- News reports: notifications for neighbors via a subscription to our news reports
- Social media: follow us on Facebook and Instagram
Where can you turn as a neighbor if you have questions or concerns?
Via the contact form
This allows neighbors to easily submit a question or complaint, anonymously if they wish.
By telephone
Residents of the Ghent Canal Zone can report complaints 24/7 about port and industrial activities by calling the free number +32 (0)800 92 999.
Contact number per site:
- Ghent Site T +32 (0)9 347 31 11
- Liège Site T +32 (0)479 99 80 80
- Geel Site T +32 (0)14 56 30 50
- Genk Site T +32 (0)89 30 18 05
