Schnitzer Steel and Microsoft Named to TIME100 List

Congratulations to ISRI members Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc. and Microsoft on being named to TIME’s third-annual TIME100 Most Influential Companies list. The ranking highlights 100 companies that are making an extraordinary impact around the world.

“We are honored to be a part of TIME‘s list of the 100 Most Influential Companies,” said Tamara Lundgren, Chairman and CEO of Schnitzer. “The use of recycled metals is an important strategic solution for companies, industries, and governments focused on carbon reduction, and our work and our purpose have never been more relevant than they are today. As a 117-year-old Company with roots in the “old economy,” this recognition is a great example of how sustainability principles can be successfully applied to industrial companies.”

TIME solicited nominations from its global network of contributors and correspondents as well as from outside experts. TIME editors evaluated each on key factors, including impact, innovation, ambition, and success.

“Schnitzer Steel Industries, which also makes finished products, is blazing a better path,” said Alison Van Houten, TIME magazine writer. “Schnitzer’s facilities are run by net-carbon-­free electricity, and it has reduced greenhouse-gas emissions by 24% since 2019. Last year it introduced net-zero-carbon GRN Steel products — carbon offsets and renewable-­energy credits address manufacturing emissions — proving that sustainable steel can be feasible and profitable.”

This achievement comes hot on the heels of Schnitzer being named the Most Sustainable Company in the World by Corporate Knights and being recognized by Ethisphere as one of the World’s Most Ethical Companies for the ninth consecutive year.

Microsoft has earned a spot on the list since 2021. Their ability to adapt and scale during the pandemic, their growing video game division and most recently their investments and advancements in AI have kept them a strong contender. “Billion-­dollar investments in OpenAI—which uses Microsoft super­computers to power its breakout chatbot ChatGPT—positioned the company at the fore of the AI revolution, prompting competitors like Google to respond,” said Billy Perrigo, TIME magazine writer.