Global recycled steel usage hit a record 630 million metric tons in 2023, preventing 950 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions. Turkey remained the top importer at 21 million metric tons despite economic challenges. Advanced technologies like AI-powered sorting systems now achieve 98% accuracy, enabling recycled steel to meet specifications previously possible only through primary production. The sector generated $320 billion in economic activity while supporting 1.6 million direct jobs, with analysts projecting usage to reach 750 million metric tons by 2030.