Solvay selects BASF as partner in reducing Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions

Chemical firms Solvay and BASF announced to jointly focus on a reduction in scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions within the hydrogen peroxide supply chain. Solvay has selected BASF as the primary supplier of aluminium chloride for its Linne Herten plant in the Netherlands, a key input in the production of anthraquinone, which is essential for manufacturing hydrogen peroxide.

BASF was chosen for its ability to provide aluminium chloride with a significantly lower carbon footprint compared to Solvay’s previous sourcing, it adds.

The shift from sourcing aluminium chloride from India to BASF in Germany is projected to decrease the carbon footprint associated with this raw material by over 50%. While acknowledging that broader industry change requires many such initiatives, this partnership demonstrates a concrete step towards more sustainable chemical production.

“This collaboration with BASF is a tangible step forward in achieving our sustainability objectives,” said Carlos Silveira, President of Solvay Peroxides. “By prioritising partners with more environmentally sound practices, we are making our supply chain more efficient and reducing our emissions.”

“We are committed to supporting our customers in their efforts to reduce CO2 emissions and to further explore their markets with low-carbon products,” said Michael Wind, Vice President Inorganic Chemicals at BASF. “Our Aluminium Chloride LowPCF (Product Carbon Footprint) based on renewable instead of fossil-based energy shows our focus on developing more sustainable products to enable the green transformation of our customers.”

The Solvay Linne Herten plant produces key chemicals, including those used in disinfectants. In 2020, the site underwent the installation of a solar farm that provides around 40% of its electricity, contributing to a reduction in yearly CO2 emissions of approximately 17%.

Both Solvay and BASF are participants in the “Together for Sustainability” initiative, which promotes sustainable practices within the chemical supply chain. This collaboration aligns with Solvay’s broader commitment to reduce its Scope 3 emissions by 20% by 2030 and highlights the role of strategic sourcing in reducing the environmental footprint of the chemical industry.