I'm not so sure the idea against using solvents is more environmental than mechanical.

Removal of the chain inevitably will weaken the link where the rivet pops in/out because it flares ever so slightly the holes in the side plates. Of course, with a Powerlink or similar, that problem is not so important.

Alkali and acid based detergents are pretty dangerous and are used, I think, by automotive mechanics to clean parts. Again, more likely to cover backsides environmentally and injury-wise rather than for any mechanical reason. But I might be wrong in the absence of policy information by the two companies on use of solvents.