Solvay has progressed its sustainability efforts with the start of waste sand-based precipitated silica production across two Asia production plants. In its 2025 annual results, the Belgian supplier said production using ISCC+ certified waste sand has begun at its Qingdao, China and Gunsan, South Korea plants
. This follows the launch of its first bio-circular silica unit in Livorno, Italy, which uses rice husk ash-
. The group reported silica sales of €515 million for 2025, down 5.1% year-on-year, reflecting "slightly lower" tire volumes-
.
Key takeaway for customers: The global transition to circular raw materials in silica production is accelerating - with Asia now playing a central role. This creates new sourcing options for customers seeking sustainable silica solutions.
Source: European Rubber Journal, July 2, 2026
