What the Project Is: Essential Chemistry in Action
Essential Chemistry has been making progress possible for generations. Since its inception in 1863, Solvay – a pioneering chemical company with a legacy rooted in founder Ernest Solvay’s pivotal innovations in the soda ash process – has delivered essential solutions globally. The company’s initiatives range from transforming business travel emissions into local benefits through the Travel Carbon Fund to reducing the raw material footprint at its Linne Herten plant through lower-carbon sourcing in collaboration with BASF. This dynamic approach to process innovation and product know‐how continues to set the pace in addressing the world’s most essential needs… purifying the air, water, and even safeguarding food supplies.
Main Benefits and Key Figures
Key figures and facts reflect the strong performance and commitment demonstrated by Solvay:
- 50% increase in biodiversity conservation scores at the Paulínia program via the WHC gold certification.
- Over 50% reduction in raw material footprint at Linne Herten plant.
- Commitment to achieve a 30% reduction in CO2 emissions from sites by 2030 (compared to 2021) and carbon neutrality by 2050.
- Projects tackling non-sustainable industrial waste deployed at over 20 plants across the world.
- A workforce of around 9,000 employees driving innovative, sustainable solutions.
Commitment to Sustainability
Solvay’s robust approach to sustainability weaves through its core initiatives. The company cares deeply about our planet and takes active steps to reduce its environmental footprint, combat climate change, and protect biodiversity. Whether it is reviewing and reducing emissions across all operations or ensuring that 30% of its permeable land near biodiversity-sensitive areas undergoes restoration by 2030, the strategy is clear and impactful. There is an enthusiastic energy about building a legacy that is both responsible and inspiring… a future that honors nature.
Innovative Collaborations
The spirit of innovation is further fueled by strategic collaborations. Solvay, in partnership with BASF, has been at the forefront of reducing Scope 3 emissions in hydrogen peroxide production – an effort that has led to significant raw material footprint reductions. Then there’s the innovative unit inaugurated with Veolia in Meurthe-et-Moselle, France, marking a bold step towards a circular industry by recycling industrial flue gas treatment residues. These partnerships are a testament to how companies can exchange expertise and drive progress together.
Ethics and Social Responsibility
Ethical conduct remains a core element of the company’s strategy. Solvay’s commitment to ethical business practices is evident in its proactive approach to product stewardship and its review of substances of concern. Workplace diversity and respect, as seen in its dedication to human rights and the creation of an inclusive environment, support not just a robust business model but also foster a sense of belonging. Ethical and compliant behavior underpins every initiative, ensuring that progress is achieved in a fair and responsible manner… a quality that resonates deeply in its projects.
Impact on Global Sustainable Goals
- SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
- SDG 12 – Responsible Consumption and Production
- SDG 13 – Climate Action
- SDG 15 – Life on Land
- SDG 8 – Decent Work and Economic Growth
Looking Ahead: A Legacy for Generations
“For generations” signifies more than a tagline; it echoes the commitment of Solvay to act responsibly today, ensuring a positive legacy for tomorrow. The company’s journey, marked by milestones like the official wildlife haven designation of an industrial facility in Brazil and the inspiring outcomes from the 2025 shareholders’ meeting, illustrates a blend of financial excellence and sustainability performance even amid global uncertainties. By harnessing process expertise and engaging seamlessly with sustainability trends such as the circular economy and energy transition, Solvay reaffirms its promise of a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Through initiatives like the Travel Carbon Fund, the transformation of industrial waste management, and continuous improvement of both operational and environmental strategies, Solvay is steering the chemical industry toward a future where advancements are made responsibly. It is not just about producing essential chemicals but about doing so in a way that respects our atmosphere, waterways, food supplies, and overall health and well-being. This natural progression, complete with bold initiatives and collaborative efforts, creates an environment where every breakthrough contributes to a greater good… ensuring the positive impact echoes across generations.
