Solvay Commits $15M to Soda Ash Plant ProjectSolvay Commits $15M to Soda Ash Plant Project

Materials and chemicals supplier Solvay revealed plans this week to invest €15 million (about $14.9 million) in an action plan to cut the amount of limestone residue released into the sea from soda ash manufacturing activities at its Rosignano, Italy facility.

The company will deploy new technical and process solutions, as well as targeted measures at different points in the production process, to lower the maximum volume of discharge by 20%, as mandated by the site’s IPPC permit. Solvay will also focus on the optimization of the limestone granulometry and quality.

“We are committed to constantly improving the sustainability of our processes and focused on ensuring that our Rosignano facility will continue to play an important role in providing essential materials for society,” Philippe Kehren, president of Solvay’s Soda Ash & Derivatives division, said in a release. “Our determination to keep raising the bar and our willingness to make additional investments further demonstrates our commitment to continuously improve our operations.”

Solvay aims to cut the discharge of limestone at the site by 40% compared to its IPPC permit by 2040 by investing in research and innovation and collaborating with relevant stakeholders.

The Solvay Chimica Italia plant in Rosignano started production of soda ash and sodium bicarbonate in 1912. Products made at the location are used in various applications, including glass production, air pollution control systems, and healthcare.