Solvay reduces emissions in soda ash/bicarbonate production in France

Chemical firm Solvay has taken a new step to reduce scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions by incorporating biogenic C02, provided by Air Products, into its soda ash and bicarbonate production plant in Dombasle, France. The initiative is expected to result in a reduction of 4,000 tonnes/year of CO2 emissions.

Air Products is supporting Solvay’s shift toward a more sustainable and reliable CO2 supply. With traditional ammonia-based sources becoming more challenging due to energy market fluctuations and decarbonisation efforts, the move to biogenic alternatives offers both environmental benefits and improved supply reliability.

About half of the Dombasle plant’s purchased CO2 needs are now met by regionally sourced, renewable CO2, derived from bioethanol fermentation byproducts. This transition not only supports Solvay’s climate objectives but also strengthens supply security by diversifying sourcing away from ammonia-linked production.

The Dombasle initiative follows the successful implementation of biogenic CO2 sourcing at Solvay’s La Rochelle plant and is now being extended to the Rosignano site in Italy. These efforts reflect Solvay’s broader strategy to decarbonize its operations.

This partnership contributes to Solvay’s ambition to reduce scope 3 emissions by 20% by 2030 and highlights the role of strategic sourcing in advancing sustainable industrial practices.