BASF Publishes Its First Responsible Sourcing Report for Its Care Chemicals Division

BASF, a pioneer in sustainable practices, has released its inaugural Responsible Sourcing Report (RSR) for its Care Chemicals division. Building on the foundation of the annually published Palm Progress Report since 2016, the new RSR expands its scope to encompass not only palm (kernel) but also coconut oil, castor oil, and bio-based active ingredients.

BASF Publishes Its First Responsible Sourcing Report for Its Care Chemicals Division

The report provides a comprehensive overview of BASF's advancements and accomplishments in responsible sourcing, emphasizing its commitment to safeguarding natural resources and empowering communities. In 2022 alone, BASF procured 1.2 million metric tons of renewable raw materials, a significant stride towards reducing greenhouse gas emissions by transitioning from fossil to bio-based starting materials.

While recognizing the positive environmental impact of bio-based materials, BASF remains vigilant about responsible sourcing. The company acknowledges the potential risks to biodiversity, land use, and working conditions if sourcing practices are not conducted responsibly. In line with its dedication to sustainability across the value chain, BASF collaborates with trusted partners to extend its certified-sustainable offerings beyond the palm oil supply chain to other crops.

The Responsible Sourcing Report made its debut during the Sustainable Beauty Days 2023, providing customers and the public with insights into BASF's commitment to environmentally and socially responsible practices. This move underscores the company's transparency in addressing sustainability concerns and its ongoing efforts to foster positive change in the industry.

BASF's sustainable sourcing journey spans nearly two decades, offering certified-sustainably sourced palm (kernel) oil and, more recently, expanding to include other raw materials like coconut oil and castor oil through respective sustainable sourcing certification schemes.

BASF actively engages with stakeholders along the value chain to champion diversity and equity, particularly supporting women and smallholder farmers. A notable example is the recently announced partnership with Kaleka, aimed at assisting Indonesian smallholders in cultivating sustainable palm.

The certified-sustainable oils and active ingredients featured in the report exemplify BASF Care Chemicals division's commitment to addressing future challenges. The division's strategic pillars—sustainability, digitalization, innovation, and collaborative approaches—are encapsulated in Care 360°– Solutions for Sustainable Life. As BASF continues to pave the way in responsible sourcing, its Care Chemicals division sets a benchmark for holistic and sustainable solutions in the cosmetics industry.