Nonwovens, plastic films and chemicals
Nonwoven materials, plastic films, and chemicals are important raw materials used in products such as incontinence products, baby diapers, wound care solutions, cleaning wipes, dispensers, and packaging.
Main countries of origin
Most of these materials are sourced from suppliers in Western Europe and North America.
Sustainability risks
Most of these materials are currently derived from fossil-based feedstocks, although Essity continues to explore and increase the use of alternative and renewable sources to reduce the product carbon footprint. Manufacturing processes are generally highly automated and capital-intensive, which reduces the likelihood of significant human rights risks further upstream in the supply chain.
Beyond the climate impact associated with fossil-based materials, the primary risks in this category relate to occupational health and safety and labor conditions.
Risk mitigation
To manage these risks, Essity uses careful supplier selection, ongoing supplier engagement, Sedex self-assessments, and risk-based ethical audits. These activities help promote responsible business practices and continuous improvement throughout the supply chain.
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