To establish responsible sourcing practices for raw materials is more important than ever. The effects of Climate change and various recent political crises have reinforced this conviction. As an industry leader, Symrise leads the way yet again.
Symrise has been pursuing ambitious sustainability goals for many years. The company has often achieved this much earlier than planned. The underlying initiatives have made Symrise a pioneer in the fragrance and flavor industry. In that spirit, driven by a commitment to sustainability and innovation, Symrise has been establishing a new benchmark for responsible sourcing.
The company's approach prioritizes environmental and social well-being alongside economic viability, ensuring long-term access to high-quality raw materials essential for its continued success. By considering aspects like biodiversity, Symrise aims to protect the natural resources vital for its production processes, ensuring their availability for future generations.
The shift towards responsible sourcing is not merely a response to environmental challenges but also a strategic move to address the complexities of modern supply chains. It is also the result of a shift in perspective and a steady process. As the impacts of climate change become more apparent, responsible sourcing has evolved, prompting Symrise to refine its practices to meet new regulatory standards, such as those outlined in the German Supply Chain Act.
A prime example of Symrise's innovative approach is its collaboration with Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ), Union For Ethical Biotrade (UEBT) and the Due Diligence Fund (DDF). This initiative explores new methods of conducting due diligence in supply chains, focusing on the very start of the sourcing chain. By involving producers, farmers, local authorities, and other stakeholders, the initiative fosters open discussions about environmental and social issues, paving the way for industry-wide improvements.
Symrise's partnership with UEBT is a cornerstone of its responsible sourcing strategy. This collaboration has led to the development of a blueprint for industry-wide approaches to sustainable sourcing, now being applied to other projects, such as guaiac wood cultivation in Paraguay. By fostering collaboration across the industry, Symrise is driving a more harmonized approach to sustainable sourcing, ensuring that supply chains are strengthened collectively rather than through isolated efforts.
Another standout project is the mint sourcing program in India. Symrise, alongside GIZ and Haleon, is implementing climate-smart agriculture practices, such as solar-powered irrigation as part of their DeveloPPP program under Symrise’s “Bridging the Gap” umbrella. The project focuses on improving soil health and pesticide usage while addressing social challenges in one of India's poorest regions, supporting livelihoods through entrepreneurship models.
Symrise's work in Madagascar is another prime example of its long-term commitment to sustainability. Since 2007, when they became the first flavor and fragrance to have its own operations on the East African island, the company has established projects that enhance access to education and create new career opportunities for local communities. These initiatives demonstrate the impact of responsible sourcing, transforming outcomes into lasting positive changes.
The company's strategy aligns with the European Due Diligence Directive, extending beyond traditional supply chain regulations. Recognizing the complexity of systemic challenges, it is understood that no single company can tackle these issues in isolation. Consequently, Symrise emphasizes collaboration with local authorities and farmers, fostering partnerships that address deep-rooted problems.
At the core of these initiatives: a long-term perspective, aiming to enhance purchasing conditions across the board and create sustainable solutions that benefit all stakeholders involved. It marks a crucial shift in perspective not just for Symrise but for the industry at large.
As Symrise continues to innovate and lead in responsible sourcing, its commitment to sustainability is clear. By prioritizing environmental and social well-being, Symrise is not only securing its future but also setting a benchmark for the industry, demonstrating that responsible sourcing is not just a necessity but a catalyst for innovation and positive change.