Starting from its natural state, the shaping and transformation of iron leads to diverse and exceptional end products. Let’s face it, the omnipresence of this material in the essential tools of our daily lives makes it an indispensable element. This key role of iron is confirmed by the multidimensional issues it raises. So, without further ado, let’s dive into this blog and learn some of the things you need to know about the iron industry in France.
1. Geological origin
Iron is a natural material extracted from rocks called ores. Indeed, iron ore is a chemical substance that results from a rather slow geological process. Worldwide, the major producers of iron ore are Australia, Brazil, China, India, Russia and South Africa.
However, it should be noted that until the end of the 20th century, several iron ore mines were located in France. The most important mines were in Lorraine. To this day, iron mine museums bear witness to the existence of these large French deposits. Today, for environmental protection reasons, these deposits are no longer exploited.
2. Economic issues
Iron plays a significant role in the French economy. Indeed, thousands of jobs are created directly or indirectly. In France, many households live from the production, transformation, shaping and use of iron. The sectors most affected are the steel companies and the major car manufacturers. In addition, there is significant involvement of certain sectors that use iron, such as carpentry, high technology and the construction of buildings and public works (roads, ports, railways, bridges, etc.). For private individuals, this material is very present in bathroom, kitchen and bedroom fittings. In short, it affects almost all economic sectors.
3. Tourist attraction
The selection of the Iron Lady as one of the wonders of the world is a major tourist attraction. Indeed, the history and architecture of this monument attract many tourists from all over the world every year. For information, the Eiffel Tower is a metal tower with a square base, 324 metres high and weighing 10,100 tonnes. The worldwide race to visit this architectural monument has a remarkable economic impact on all sectors closely or remotely related to tourism (travel agencies, hotels, restaurants).
4. Ecological advantage
Iron is not a biodegradable material. Despite this fact, its ecological advantage lies in its ability to be 100% recyclable indefinitely. The most interesting thing is that after recycling, the quality of the recycled iron remains the same. This being the case, 40% of the ores will be preserved through recycling. This is an essential asset for sustainable development.
To this end, any natural or legal person in possession of scrap metal waste or deposits should contact a specialist scrap metal dealer to obtain an appropriate price for the purchase of the iron and metal they have.
However, the realization of this recycling is dependent on the civic education of the population and is the responsibility of all actors (administration, communities, companies, inhabitants). It has the added benefit of ridding companies and individuals of the clutter of this waste for the benefit of better exploitation of the spaces in the flat.
5. A sanitary weapon
Apart from the need for daily hydration, having a sufficient supply of iron in the human body is a vital parameter. Indeed, this trace element is essential for the health of muscles, cells and red blood cells. In this respect, some French pharmaceutical companies have developed several iron-based medicines. These are used for preventive or curative purposes both in France and throughout the world. This medical exploitation of iron is the pride of our country.
Sound off in the comments section below, and tell us what you want to read next and if you want to read more about the iron industry.
