Solvay has announced a three-year partnership with the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) to enhance its biodiversity efforts and contribute to global conservation goals. This collaboration aligns with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KM-GBF) adopted at COP15, which emphasizes urgent action to halt and reverse biodiversity loss by 2030. Together, Solvay and IUCN aim to drive best practices for nature conservation across the chemical industry.

As part of its commitment, Solvay will allocate 30% of permeable land near biodiversity-sensitive areas for conservation and restoration by 2030. These initiatives are endorsed by Act4Nature International and support Solvay’s broader sustainability strategy. The company has already implemented measurable actions to protect biodiversity and is now strengthening these efforts through expert guidance from IUCN.

Under this partnership, IUCN will assess Solvay’s biodiversity programs at key manufacturing sites located near ecologically sensitive regions. The organization will provide science-based recommendations, tools, and indicators to enhance conservation efforts. Site-specific evaluations will include ecological inventories, habitat restoration projects, and collaborations with environmental organizations, local communities, and research institutions. Advanced tools such as the Integrated Biodiversity Assessment Tool (IBAT) and IUCN’s Species Threat Abatement and Restoration (STAR) metric will be used to identify areas for conservation and restoration.

Susanne Pedersen, Director of IUCN’s Centre for Science and Knowledge, expressed enthusiasm for the collaboration, stating, “IUCN is pleased to work with Solvay and apply our expertise to transform sustainability ambitions into concrete business actions. By integrating IUCN’s standards and scientific approaches—such as our methodology for measuring Nature Positive—this partnership can demonstrate how sustainable production practices can deliver real benefits for the planet, people, and the economy.”

Jean-Charles Djelalian, Solvay’s Chief Sustainability Officer, emphasized the importance of collective action in addressing biodiversity challenges. “At Solvay, we recognize that protecting nature requires collaboration, and we are grateful for this partnership with IUCN. Building on our existing biodiversity initiatives in Brazil, Italy, and Spain, we aim to contribute meaningfully to the Global Biodiversity Framework. Through this commitment, we are determined to drive tangible positive impacts for nature by leveraging expert knowledge and implementing best practices.”

This partnership underscores Solvay’s dedication to integrating biodiversity conservation into its business operations. By working closely with IUCN, Solvay aims to set a new standard for sustainability in the chemical industry, demonstrating how companies can align with global environmental goals while maintaining responsible production practices.

Solvay, a leading chemical company founded in 1863 by Ernest Solvay, is built on a legacy of innovation, starting with his groundbreaking advancements in the soda ash process. With a global workforce of over 9,000 employees, Solvay is committed to developing innovative and sustainable solutions that address the world’s most critical needs. The company’s chemistry-driven innovations contribute to cleaner air and water, food preservation, health and well-being, eco-friendly textiles, sustainable automotive tires, and safer, more efficient household products.