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New investments at Paulínia aim to reduce the site’s GHG emissions by 40% and water input by 10% annually versus 2021.
Solvay announced two energy transition and efficiency projects at its Paulínia site, in the presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Astrid of Belgium, Representative of His Majesty the King. The new projects are designed to reduce Paulínia site’s greenhouse gas emissions by 40% annually by 2027 and decrease annual water intake by 10% by 2025, versus a 2021 baseline.
Paulínia was the first stop of a seven-day Belgian Economic Mission to Brazil. Solvay, which has operated in the country under the Rhodia brand since 1919, has increasingly focused on sustainable practices in recent years. At its Paulínia site, one of the company’s largest global production centers, Solvay has made significant efforts to develop green chemical technologies, including bio-based solvents and polymers, while actively promoting biodiversity. The site has become a focal point for renewable chemical innovation and local ecosystem conservation initiatives.
The unveiled initiatives address pressing climate and water challenges through practical solutions. Installing biomass-fired boilers, fueled primarily by sugarcane bagasse, will reduce the site’s reliance on fossil fuels, thus lowering greenhouse gas emissions while supporting renewable energy adoption. Additionally, implementing a closed-loop cooling system is expected to save 4.2 million cubic meters of water per year, reducing dependency on local water reserves.
"These projects are a tangible step forward in meeting our environmental objectives,” said Philippe Kehren, Solvay CEO. “They illustrate our ongoing commitment to reducing our footprint and supporting our local communities. By investing in sustainable practices, we aim to contribute meaningfully to regional water conservation and carbon reduction goals in Brazil, while strengthening our responsible market leadership and our low-carbon, circular solutions.”
Daniela Manique, President of Solvay Coatis business and CEO Latin America, emphasized that Paulínia stands as a model for sustainability in Brazil, “Since decades, Solvay has invested in the region, pioneering sustainable practices, renewable materials and water conservation efforts. Our sites have introduced renewable-source products such as bio-based solvents and polyamide yarns from plant materials, providing sustainable alternatives for industries including automotive, textiles, and coatings.”
Paulínia is notable not only for its industrial contributions but also for its biodiversity conservation efforts. Spanning over 16 million square meters, the site dedicates only 15% to industrial use, with a robust restoration and conservation program in place to preserve the native Atlantic Forest biome.
These efforts have supported the reintroduction and protection of over 270 species, including endangered animals like the maned wolf, puma and giant anteater. Paulínia has earned Gold certification from the Wildlife Habitat Council (WHC), a recognition of its extensive biodiversity and reforestation programs that aim to protect local fauna and flora.
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Solvay, a pioneering chemical company with a legacy rooted in founder Ernest Solvay's pivotal innovations in the soda ash process, is dedicated to delivering essential solutions globally through its workforce of over 9,000 employees. Since 1863, Solvay harnesses the power of chemistry to create innovative, sustainable solutions that answer the world’s most essential needs such as purifying the air we breathe and the water we use, preserving our food supplies, protecting our health and well-being, creating eco-friendly clothing, making the tires of our cars more sustainable and cleaning and protecting our homes. Solvay’s unwavering commitment drives the transition to a carbon-neutral future by 2050, underscoring its dedication to sustainability and a fair and just transition. As a world-leading company with €4.9 billion in net sales in 2023, Solvay is listed on Euronext Brussels and Paris (SOLB). For more information about Solvay, please visit solvay.com or follow Solvay on Linkedin.
Solvay has a longstanding presence in Latin America, where it operates six sites and employs 16% of its global workforce. Brazil contributes to 13% of the Group’s net sales and Solvay is a leader in sustainable chemical solutions, committed to advancing energy transition, decarbonization, and biodiversity protection. The Paulínia complex exemplifies Solvay’s philosophy that industry and nature can coexist, and supports global sustainability goals, including the Paris Agreement and Brazilian targets for emissions reduction and natural resource preservation.