Ways to create net-zero foundries (CASTWELL)

Purpose and goal

The aim is to demonstrate through a comprehensive system demonstrator project how the Swedish foundry industry can achieve significantly reduced CO₂ emissions and increased circularity. The goal is to test and verify low-emission iron, circular sand, recycled refractories and sustainable binders in real foundry environments and to develop common guidelines and an industry-wide strategy for net zero.

Expected effects and result

The project is expected to demonstrate that foundries can significantly reduce their climate impact through low-emission iron, circular material flows and sustainable binders demonstrated in real-world operations. The results include verified technical solutions, new business models and industry-wide guidelines for net zero. The effects will be increased resource efficiency, reduced CO₂ emissions, strengthened competitiveness and a clear transition path for the entire foundry sector.

Planned approach and implementation

The project is implemented as a system demonstrator integrating technical testing, analysis and business models. The work is organized into parts for low-emission iron, circular sand, circular refractories and sustainable binders. Each area conducts iterative lab tests, pilot trials and full-scale demonstrations in operational foundries. In parallel, system and scenario analyses, logistics studies and business model development are carried out to ensure practical feasibility and scalability.