The risks of soil pollution related to our operations come mainly from accidental spills. To prevent and contain this pollution, we take action throughout the life of our sites.

As early as the project phase, we analyze soil conditions through environmental studies (site surveys and impact assessments). We also check soil conditions when making acquisitions.

During operations, we implement measures to identify risks, prevent pollution and monitor the environment. If contamination occurs, we roll out specific pollution management measures.

When a site ceases operations, we define the procedures for managing the impact on the soil and groundwater in line with regulatory obligations, local issues for redeveloping the Company’s activities (solar power, reforestation, etc.), or the preservation of biodiversity.

Soil pollution is carefully managed by dedicated teams in accordance with applicable regulations and procedures. The Company has set up specialized entities to oversee the remediation of such pollution.

Find out how we are protecting the soil

TotalEnergies takes soil-related issues into account when developing its renewable electricity projects. We ensure that the quality of the soil is fit for purpose, while maintaining the soil’s ecological uses and functions, and limiting soil sealing.

When developing solar power projects, the Company deploys the following actions as early as the prospecting stages:

• preference for building on fallow land or land of low soil or ecological value with the aim of minimizing the environmental impact and especially avoiding competition with other land uses (agricultural, forestry, natural, etc.); and
• feasibility studies for shared-value projects, such as agrivoltaic solar projects, where permitted by technical and economic conditions.

The environmental studies for our projects give due consideration to soil quality and the biodiversity that it supports.

We align our actions with the “Zero Net Deforestation” target that we set in 2022 for each of our projects in new locations.

Our actions in terms of land use

A growing number of TotalEnergies’ activities rely on agricultural activities, especially producing the resources to supply its refineries, producing biofuels, spreading the digestate from its anaerobic digestion activities, and producing biogas. This is why we pay special attention to the direct and indirect impacts of our bioproduct production activities and to the development of the circular economy.

Therefore, to limit the use of inputs from agricultural production and reduce its dependence on arable land, TotalEnergies began increasing the proportion of raw materials from waste and residues (such as used cooking oils and animal fats) to over 75% in its biofuel production processes⁽¹⁾ from 2024.

Similarly, as part of the ambition to transform our Grandpuits refinery into a zero-crude platform, we are planning to supply the biofuel production plant mainly with waste and residues, which will be supplemented by rapeseed-type vegetable oils, while prioritizing local supply chains.

Find out how we are promoting circular resource management

⁽¹⁾ This does not concern the bio-inputs purchased by TOTSA for incorporation. Only operated production is concerned. ↑