"Few Canadians realize the significant transformation that steel has undergone," Watkins added. "It's one of the most important and progressive industries in Canada, and throughout the world. We hope Canadians will come to recognize just how essential steel is to the Canadian economy now and for future generations."
The New Steel campaign aims to close the gap between outdated perceptions of the industry and the reality that Canada's new steel industry has made tremendous achievements in product quality, productivity and environmental responsibility.
Hamilton area Member of Parliament David Sweet, Chair of the Parliamentary Steel Caucus was named a "Man of Steel" by the CSPA for his personal efforts in supporting and promoting Canada's new steel industry.
"This is an industry that employs thousands of highly skilled Canadians, that creates four spin off jobs for every single job in steel, and generates approximately $14 billion in annual sales," said Sweet.
Canadian steel industry innovation continues to generate new advanced grades of steel, many of which are thinner, lighter and stronger. New steels have helped to reduce the weight of vehicles by 25%, thereby improving fuel efficiency and therefore reducing emissions. NewsSteel also plays an important role in Canada's construction and energy sectors, and is an essential material in renewable energy sources such as wind turbines, solar thermal- panels, and tidal energy devices.
"New steel is important to Canada's future. It stands for brains and backbone. It's the best material for so many applications," added Watkins. "It's an industry that has been transformed in Canada and around the world. Steel is a vital, progressive industry that plays an essential role in the lives of all Canadians."
The Canadian Steel Producers Association is the voice of Canada's new steel producers. The member companies of the CSPA produced over 15 million metric tons of steel in 2008 from 13 facilities in five provinces.