Solvay and BASF have joined forces to significantly reduce Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions in the production of hydrogen peroxide, marking a key step toward a more sustainable chemical industry. The collaboration focuses on improving the environmental performance of the supply chain for Solvay’s Linne Herten plant in the Netherlands.

Solvay has selected BASF as its primary supplier of aluminum chloride—a critical component in the manufacture of anthraquinone, which is used to produce hydrogen peroxide. BASF’s aluminum chloride is produced with a substantially lower carbon footprint compared to Solvay’s previous source in India. By shifting procurement to BASF's German operations, Solvay expects to cut emissions from this raw material by more than 50%.

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

Michael Wind, vice president of Inorganic Chemicals at BASF, echoed the commitment: “We are committed to supporting our customers in their efforts to reduce CO2 emissions and to further explore their markets with low-carbon products. Our Aluminum Chloride LowPCF, based on renewable rather than fossil-based energy, underscores our focus on sustainable innovation and helping enable our customers’ green transformation.”

The Linne Herten site, which plays a key role in producing chemicals used in disinfectants, has already taken steps to improve its sustainability profile. In 2020, the site installed a solar farm that now supplies about 40% of its electricity, resulting in an annual CO2 reduction of approximately 17%.

Both companies are active participants in the “Together for Sustainability” initiative, which promotes responsible and sustainable practices throughout the chemical supply chain. This partnership reflects a shared commitment to reduce environmental impact and highlights how collaboration and strategic sourcing can accelerate sustainability goals.

Solvay has set a target to reduce its Scope 3 emissions by 20% by 2030. The partnership with BASF represents one of many actions needed across the sector to meet this ambition and serves as a model for integrating sustainability into core business operations.

By working together, Solvay and BASF are not only improving their own environmental performance but also setting a precedent for broader industry transformation.

Solvay, a leading global chemical company, traces its origins to 1863 and the groundbreaking innovations of its founder, Ernest Solvay, in the soda ash process. With a team of more than 9,000 employees, the company delivers vital solutions worldwide that address some of the planet’s most pressing challenges. Solvay uses the power of chemistry to develop sustainable technologies that help purify air and water, preserve food, improve health and well-being, enable eco-conscious apparel, enhance vehicle tire sustainability, and ensure cleaner, safer homes.