On 19 October 2026, JSC Rustavi Azot (part of the Indorama Corporation) held an official inauguration ceremony for the modernised catalytic abatement reactor at its nitric acid production unit. The project was implemented with financial support from the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) via the Nitric Acid Climate Action Group (NACAG) and represents a significant step forward in the plant’s environmental modernisation and sustainable development.
The event was attended by Davit Songulashvili, Minister of Environmental Protection and Agriculture of Georgia; Nino Latsabidze, Mayor of Rustavi; Anna-Maria Schneider, Head of Development Cooperation for Georgia and Azerbaijan at the German Embassy; as well as representatives of the Government of Georgia, the German Embassy, GIZ, international financial institutions, local authorities and partner organisations.
The project involved the complete modernisation of the catalytic abatement reactor for nitrogen oxides (NOx) and nitrous oxide (N₂O). A next-generation catalyst was installed, the reactor’s internal components were fully replaced, and a Continuous Emissions Monitoring System (CEMS) was introduced to ensure continuous monitoring and control of emissions released into the atmosphere.
The modernised reactor now removes 432,000 tonnes CO2 equivalent of the nitrous oxide (N₂O) formed in nitric acid production – this is 95% of N2O emissions. Compared with the plant’s emission level in 2019, this means an annual reduction of an additional 120,000 tonnes of CO₂e. N2O is a greenhouse gas harmful to the climate and environment alike, it damages the ozone layer and stays in the atmosphere longer than CO2 does. Moreover, the filtration of NOx (nitrogen oxides) significantly improves local ambient air quality and therefore is an improvement for the people of Rustavi, too.
This achievement significantly reduces the plant’s environmental and climate impact and contributes to cleaner and more environmentally responsible production.
The total project cost amounted to €5.26 million, of which €2.26 million was financed by GIZ and €3 million was invested by JSC Rustavi Azot.
This investment reflects Indorama Corporation’s vision of responsible industrial growth, combining business development with care for society and the environment. As part of this commitment, JSC Rustavi Azot continues to modernise its operations, adopt cleaner technologies and reduce its overall emissions. These efforts support a more sustainable future for the company while contributing to the well-being of local communities and Georgia’s broader environmental goals.
