Solvay objects to the manner in which the information was presented in the ZDF program ‘Die Spur’ and condemns the one-sided, deliberately biased portrayal. However, we take the public attention seriously and wish to provide a factual perspective on the situation at the Bad Wimpfen site.
Solvay complies with all applicable laws and regulations and places great importance on the responsible management of industrial emissions. The operation of the Bad Wimpfen site is subject to strict legal requirements and is regularly inspected by the competent local authorities. Our on-site wastewater treatment plant is continuously monitored and meets all requirements for environmental and health protection.
It is important to note that Solvay does not produce TFA (trifluoroacetic acid) at the Bad Wimpfen site. TFA is used as a raw material for the manufacture of products, primarily for the agrochemical and pharmaceutical industries.
Solvay has made significant investments and has implemented comprehensive measures to substantially reduce the environmental impact of TFA. As a result, we have reduced emissions by around 90% since 2016. A key measure was the installation of a specially designed treatment unit in which TFA is converted into a stable salt form (trifluoroacetate) and neutralized. The resulting wastewater is further treated in the wastewater treatment plant, where it is neutralized and cleared of solids before being discharged into the Neckar in compliance with strict legal standards. Thanks to these measures, the site consistently operates below the binding emission limits laid down by the law.
As reported in the ZDF “Die Spur” feature, it is important to note that TFA is widespread and ubiquitous in Germany. As in other regions of Germany, the majority of TFA loads are likely due to the use of various crop protection products in agriculture.
On September 18, 2025, we announced the gradual phase-out of selected product lines in Bad Wimpfen, including TFA-based organics. As a result of this realignment, Solvay will have stopped the production of TFA and all of its derivatives across the Group by early 2026. This decision is based on economic considerations, as organic fluorides based on TFA are no longer competitive to produce in Germany.
With the discontinuation of TFA-based organics, no further industrial emissions from this production will be discharged into the Neckar as of early 2026.
Beyond environmental protection, the safety and health of our employees remain a top priority. At the Bad Wimpfen site, we strictly implement the occupational safety regulations applicable in Germany – for example, thorough training in the handling of hazardous substances, the employment of certified occupational safety experts, and access to occupational health care. In addition, we pursue a continuous prevention approach. This includes regular medical check-ups, which enable us to monitor the health of our employees, minimize occupational risks, and ensure safe working conditions.