The National Association of Manufacturers in the U.S. released its Manufacturers’ Outlook Survey for the fourth quarter of 2021, showing that manufacturers remain mostly optimistic in their economic outlook (86.8%, down from 87.5% in Q3) but are significantly concerned with issues such as inflation, hiring and potential tax increases targeting manufacturers.

Don’t miss the December 2021/January 2022 issue of International Sheet Metal Review on https://joom.ag/MTBI

Steel production could be achieved with almost no carbon emissions via US$ 278 billion of extra investment by 2050, according to a new report from research firm BloombergNEF. Hydrogen and recycling are likely to play a central role in reducing emissions from steel production. Steel is responsible for around 7% of man-made greenhouse gas emissions every year and is one of the world’s most polluting industries.

With COP26 taking place recently, the actions needed to mitigate climate change are now becoming a priority for world leaders. Now is therefore the time for companies to recognise that prioritising sustainable manufacturing operations will be critical to their future success and public reputation.

Image caption above: Dr. Wilfried Schäfer, Executive Director, VDW (German Machine Tool Builders’ Association).

Along with the 8th Schweisstec international trade fair for joining technology, the 15th Blechexpo international trade fair for sheet metal working took place from 26-29 October 2021. As a key meeting point for the industry during a difficult year of COVID-19 disruption and lockdowns, the mood was upbeat as exhibitors and visitors were able to network face to face.