Key Environmental and Water Conservation Efforts by Esfahan Steel Company
Seyed Ardeshir Afzali, CEO of Esfahan Steel Company (Zob Ahan), appeared on the Zendeh Rood program on Isfahan TV to mark the anniversary of the company’s founding and shared insights into its latest achievements and current conditions.
He began by congratulating all the hardworking individuals in the country’s industrial sector, especially those in the steel industry, on the occasion of January 13th—the founding day of Esfahan Steel Company. He expressed deep appreciation for the dedication of the steelworkers who tirelessly serve the nation’s production efforts, as well as for the miners who work with full effort deep within the earth to support this industry.
Afzali noted, “The contract to establish the company was signed on January 13, 1966. Construction began in 1967, and by 1971, the first steel was produced. Since its inception, the company has produced over 88.5 million tons of various steel products, which have been used in construction, national infrastructure projects, and railway transportation.”
He added, “The quality of Esfahan Steel Company’s products is not only unrivaled in Iran but is also recognized as top-tier in the Middle East and, in some cases, globally. This high quality has led to exports to countries like the UK and Germany.”
The CEO continued, “As the first steel producer in Iran, this major industrial complex has greatly contributed to the industry. Currently, it directly employs around 18,000 people, and indirectly supports jobs for more than 80,000 individuals across the country, including in various mines.”
In response to a question about the company’s environmental record, Afzali said, “No industrial activity comes without some environmental impact, but what’s important is taking all necessary actions to minimize it. Thanks to our efforts, we currently have no pollution issues in the areas of water and soil. However, we are facing some air pollution problems, specifically related to the steelmaking converter section.”
He emphasized, “We’ve already taken major steps to address this issue, and so far, we’ve reduced air pollution in that section by more than 40%. If we had a live feed of the steel plant, viewers would clearly see the difference. Our efforts will continue until this issue is fully resolved.”
Regarding water consumption, Afzali said, “Thanks to various measures taken in recent years, we’ve managed to reduce water usage by 50%. Our wastewater treatment project is now in its final stages, and we are also participating in the Persian Gulf water transfer project. Altogether, with these efforts combined, water extraction from the Zayandeh Rood River will be minimized.”
He concluded with hope, saying, “With collaboration, unity, and the use of modern knowledge and technology, we can be good stewards for future generations and help elevate this vital industry to its rightful place.”