In addition to being affordable and reliable, steel is a top choice among many "green" manufacturers. Steel used as a building material helps slow down deforestation. In addition, the steel portion is made of recycled materials - some buildings contain up to 60% recycled materials, and nearly 100% of steel structure buildings are recyclable. Traditionally, brick and wood structures are eventually demolished in a landfill. Steel, on the other hand, can be recycled and reused to minimize waste from the dump. Steel is also far more durable than some of its peers. It can withstand the harsh climate and the continuous reduction of temperature maintenance, save more construction waste and cost, and improve the living environment. There are also heating and cooling problems. Steel is excellent insulation - which means they use less energy and they are more water-saving.

In fact, studies have shown that buildings with steel metal roofs can save "up to 40% energy efficiency" - thereby reducing air conditioning and heating costs. More importantly, steel buildings can easily accommodate solar roofs and rainwater harvesting equipment, providing another level of environmental (and cost) efficiency. Natural materials can decompose quickly, leading to mold development - which can lead to disease, discomfort and expensive maintenance. Steel structure buildings tend to have better air quality due to the fact that mold development cannot be part of it. Air tends to flow through steel structures, which are better at cleaning and fresh air. In addition to the inherent environmentally friendly nature of the material, the steel industry has been striving to reduce its carbon footprint and maximize the environmental benefits of steel. According to iron and steel network, China steel structure steel industry is "recognized as having the largest decline in total emissions of the manufacturing industry in the nine EPA industry performance reports in 2008."