Solvay launches IUCN RHINO pilot at its soda ash and sodium bicarbonate plant in France
Solvay is taking a foundational step to translate global biodiversity goals into verifiable, local actions by launching a pilot of the IUCN RHINO (Rapid, High-Integrity, Nature-positive Outcomes) approach at its soda ash and sodium bicarbonate manufacturing site in Dombasle, France. This initiative is a direct outcome of Solvay's partnership with IUCN (International Union for the Conservation of Nature).
Solvay is one of six pioneers testing this rigorous, science-based framework, which aims to develop a replicable blueprint for effective biodiversity actions across global operations. The IUCN RHINO approach, by integrating the Species Threat Abatement and Restoration (STAR) metric, helps Solvay systematically screen site impacts, set evidence-based targets, and accurately measure contributions to species survival and ecosystem health.
The Dombasle site was selected for this pilot due to its existing biodiversity roadmap. This provides a crucial real-world laboratory to test and refine the IUCN RHINO approach. Furthermore, the site is undergoing a major sustainability transformation, including a significant energy transition project, the piloting of the e. Solvay process to reduce natural resource and energy consumption, cut CO2 emissions, and eliminate residues, as well as targeted water initiatives - making it the ideal hub for testing a comprehensive, replicable blueprint for biodiversity actions across Solvay’s wider network, particularly those sites associated with soda ash production.
Jean-Charles Djelalian, Solvay’s Chief Sustainability Officer, commented on the importance of this measured approach: "As a science-based company, we value expert insights that help us move from ambition to action. We are honored to pilot the RHINO approach and STAR metric in Dombasle, establishing a foundation of credible indicators and shared criteria to deliver tangible positive impacts for nature across our global operations. Our partnership with IUCN brings our strategy to the next level, in line with our commitment to allocate 30% of our land located near biodiversity-sensitive areas to support nature conservation and restoration by 2030."
The Dombasle roadmap details targeted, high-impact actions. These include defining SMART1 objectives for biodiversity gains, implementing compensatory measures like establishing ecological corridors, and prioritizing proactive management by eliminating ecological traps and potential environmental hazards. The plan involves comprehensive ecological inventories, a critical review of site initiatives that extend restoration efforts beyond regulations, the initiation of regional connectivity programs including invasive species management and actively exploring options to reduce the impact of discharged water.
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