At Sensient Beauty, the essence of sustainability lies in our dedication to natural and biodegradable colors. It’s not just a buzzword; it’s a fundamental part of our identity and vision for a better, greener world. Our commitment to sustainability spans across various dimensions. This commitment is woven into every aspect of our business, from the products we develop to the processes we employ. Let’s delve deeper into Sensient Beauty’s holistic sustainability vision and initiatives that center around natural and biodegradable ingredients.
Biodegradability: A Core Focus
In our journey toward sustainability, biodegradability is a fundamental focus. However, there are several myths and misconceptions surrounding this concept that need to be addressed:
Myth 1: Biodegradable Ingredients Biodegrades Quickly
One common misconception is that all biodegradable materials break down rapidly. In reality, the rate of biodegradation depends on various factors, including material type and environmental conditions. Biodegradability involves not only whether a substance can biodegrade but also how quickly it does so. While it’s essential to determine if a substance can biodegrade, the speed of the process is equally crucial. According to OECD norms, substances classified as “readily biodegradable” undergo at least a 60 percent degradation within 28 days under conditions simulating water treatment plants. In contrast, persistent substances can remain virtually unchanged for longer periods of time.
Myth 2: Biodegradable Means It’s Natural and Safe
Another myth is that biodegradable products are automatically safe for the environment. While they may break down over time, some biodegradable materials can release harmful byproducts during degradation. Contrary to common belief, some natural polymers can be surprisingly stable and take longer to biodegrade than synthetic counterparts. In the realm of cosmetic ingredients, natural polymers like cellulose are frequently subjected to chemical modifications to enhance their performance or suitability for various formulations. Paradoxically, these modifications can significantly reduce their biodegradability.
Myth 3: All Biodegradable Products Are Equal
Not all biodegradable products are created equal. The term “biodegradable” can be used loosely, and there are varying degrees of biodegradability. Some materials break down more readily than others, and the specific conditions required for degradation can differ. Some might biodegrade in aerobic conditions in aquatic environments and other in anaerobic conditions in soils frequently referred as compostability.
Sensient’s Response to Biodegradability Misconceptions
At Sensient Beauty, we are committed to setting the record straight when it comes to biodegradability. Our vision includes setting stringent targets for our products to be both readily and ultimately biodegradable. Our aim is clear: to achieve more than 60% Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) or over 70% Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) degradation in a ready biodegradation test after 28 days. Additionally, we strive for greater than 70% inherent biodegradation in inherent biodegradation tests.
These commitments are a part of our broader sustainability vision, designed to address the myths and misconceptions surrounding biodegradability in the cosmetics and personal care industry. Our approach is about providing transparent, environmentally responsible solutions that not only meet regulatory standards but also contribute to a healthier planet.
Natpure® Range Extracts: Embracing Sustainability and Natural Beauty
The Natpure® Range of Extracts embody our commitment to both natural solutions and eco-friendliness. Botanically sourced, Natpure® range of extracts offer a sustainable and responsible alternative to traditional synthetic ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products.
With properties like water solubility and dispersibility in oil, they’re versatile for various formulations in skincare, makeup, hair care, and personal care. In addition to their sustainable attributes, These extracts are inherently colorful, providing a genuine aesthetic from vegetable juices. This way, brands can ensure their products contain antioxidant-rich active ingredients without preservatives, delivering a safer, more eco-conscious choice for consumers.
Innovations Addressing Technical Challenges
Sensient is not only committed to sustainability but also to addressing technical challenges in established markets. Our innovations, including PhytoClean™ clean extraction process, spray-dry technology, and upcycled ingredients like Natpure® Xco Choco CC864, exemplify our dedication to sustainability and natural ingredients in cosmetics and personal care products.
Seed to Shelf Agronomy Program: A Commitment to Quality and Sustainability
Our Seed to Shelf agronomy program is a testament to our commitment to quality, safety, and authenticity. This initiative ensures that Sensient colors derived from natural sources meet the most rigorous requirements. We take direct involvement in every stage of our natural raw materials’ journey, from planting the seeds to growing, harvesting, and processing. By doing so, we maintain a strong commitment to socially responsible procurement and ensure sustainable farming methods.
Reducing Our Carbon Footprint: A Pledge to Zero Carbon Emissions
As part of our sustainability vision, we have set ambitious targets for reducing our carbon footprint. We’re following a linear model of a 2.67% decrease per year, building on a 2020 baseline emissions level. These reduction targets are designed to help us reach our first milestone on the path to achieving zero carbon emissions by 2050. We understand that our responsibility extends beyond the products we create; it includes minimizing our impact on the environment.
Sustainable Processes: A Daily Commitment
Sensient Beauty recognizes that true sustainability should encompass all aspects of the business. We are continually evaluating new ways to drive sustainability in our daily operations. This includes reducing energy consumption, conserving water resources, and minimizing waste generation. By making sustainable choices in our processes, we are contributing to a healthier planet.
Contact us today to have a conversation on sustainability and find out more about natural and biodegradable ingredients.
