Evolving Chemical

Research and development in chemical industries characterized much of the 20th century. Many European countries, with the financial support of the EIB, put efforts into in construction of large petrochemical complex and on the exploitation of certain minerals. Nevertheless, the ecological impact of such projects does not stop when the construction of these industrial complexes ends: as we can see in the pictures, such petrochemical modernization impacts the environment for decades, reshaping the ecology of soils, waters, and airs in the surrounding areas, and also affecting the bodies of those who work or live nearby.

Gilberto Mazzoli

Progil-Bayer: 25 December / 6 July 1970

Project Progil-Bayer, a result of Franco-German cooperation, involved a European Investment Bank loan for constructing a chemical factory in Pont-de-Claix, France. Spanning over a decade, this collaboration aimed to establish a chemical facility, significantly impacting the industrial landscape. The financial support facilitated the realization of this venture, fostering economic development and cross-border cooperation. The chemical factory in Pont-de-Claix stands as a tangible outcome of this strategic partnership, highlighting the influence of international collaboration in industrial development. The timeframe from 25 December, 1959, to 6 July, 1970, encapsulates the enduring efforts and outcomes achieved through Project Progil-Bayer.

Mercure: 18 June 1958 / 22 February 1974

Project Mercure marked a historic milestone as one of the first three projects to benefit from the inaugural European Investment Bank (EIB) loan approval. Executed from 18 June, 1958, to 22 February, 1974, this initiative focused on the exploitation of a lignite field for the construction of a thermoelectric power plant in Lucania, located in Calabria, Southern Italy. The EIB's financial support played a pivotal role in realizing this project, showcasing the bank's commitment to advancing energy infrastructure in the region. Project Mercure, spanning nearly two decades, stands as a testament to the transformative impact of EIB funding, contributing to the development of energy resources and infrastructure in Southern Italy.

Celene: 14 November 1958 / 1 February 1970

Projects Celene, one of the initial recipients of an EIB loan, significantly contributed to enhancing ethylene and chemical derivatives production at Sicily's Augusta-Priolo petrochemical complex. Executed from 14 November 1958 to 1 February 1970, this initiative left a lasting impact on the petrochemical sector, underscoring the EIB's early dedication to regional industrial development. The Augusta-Priolo complex, enriched by Projects Celene, emerged as a symbol of diversified chemical production, illustrating the transformative effects of well-planned investments. The timeframe of Projects Celene highlights collaborative efforts between the EIB and pioneering companies, contributing significantly to Sicily's industrial advancement.