Recycled materials
Essity is one of the world's largest buyers of recovered fiber for tissue production, and Essity also sources materials containing recycled plastics and recycled cotton fibers. See “Fiber sourcing” for more details.
Origin
Recycled materials are typically sourced locally or regionally. For tissue production, recovered fibers are primarily collected near Essity's recycling-based tissue mills in Northern Europe, the United States, and Mexico.
Sustainability risks
Recycled materials can deliver significant environmental benefits but may also present social and human rights challenges if supply chains are not properly managed. Traceability can be challenging because fragmented supply chains involve many suppliers and intermediaries, often extending several tiers upstream.
The main risks are generally found beyond Essity's direct suppliers and may include health and safety concerns, labor conditions, wages and benefits, and freedom of association. In some regions and material streams, risks related to corruption, organized crime, and human rights violations may also exist.
Risk mitigation
Essity addresses these risks through supplier due diligence, audits, training, industry collaboration, and engagement with relevant stakeholders and organizations. The company also works with suppliers to improve transparency, strengthen responsible sourcing practices, and promote continuous improvement throughout the value chain.
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