NIVEA is committed to utilizing natural resources in its skincare formulations and packaging materials, marking a significant step towards a sustainable future. By focusing on renewable materials, the company aims to move away from a fossil fuel-based economy. However, the cultivation of these plant-based ingredients and packaging materials is critical. NIVEA strives to treat nature with respect, aiming to contribute to ecological agricultural practices, prevent deforestation, and support the communities and regions where its ingredients are sourced.
Sustainable Sourcing Targets NIVEA aims to prevent any negative environmental impacts through the responsible use of natural resources. The company has set a target to source 100 percent of its renewable ingredients sustainably by 2025, thereby supporting ecological agricultural practices. NIVEA has committed to a sustainable palm (kernel) oil economy that does not support rainforest deforestation. Since the end of 2020, all palm (kernel) oil-based ingredients used in NIVEA products worldwide come from sustainably certified sources.
In addition, NIVEA uses paper and cardboard for packaging materials, ensuring these materials are sourced responsibly. Since 2019, 100 percent of the company’s folding boxes have been made from Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)-certified material, guaranteeing that wood-based products come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits.
Supporting Local Communities The sourcing of ingredients is crucial to the people in their regions of origin. Often, the cultivation of naturally derived ingredients is managed by small-scale, family-owned businesses, known as smallholder farms. NIVEA, in collaboration with local non-profit partners, works directly with these smallholders to promote sustainable cultivation without further deforestation. This initiative not only helps protect the environment but also contributes to improving the living standards and economic situations of the local communities.
Shea Butter from West Africa NIVEA sources high-quality shea butter from West Africa and, as a member of the Global Shea Alliance, promotes sustainable shea sourcing while caring for those involved in its production. For instance, NIVEA’s smallholder project in Ghana and Burkina Faso empowers 10,000 female shea collectors over five years by providing training, clean cooking stoves and tree planting initiatives.
Argan Oil from Morocco Argan oil, known for its outstanding skincare properties, is another important ingredient in several NIVEA products. The argan oil trade in Morocco provides rural populations with stable incomes and jobs, helping prevent rural depopulation. Argan trees also play a crucial role in preventing desertification, as their deep roots act as water reservoirs, allowing communities to recultivate previously arid land. NIVEA sources its argan oil from a local supplier in southwest Morocco, supporting social, economic, and environmental projects and benefiting the local rural population.
Organic Ingredients NIVEA also emphasizes the use of organic skincare ingredients, such as burdock fruit extract from Germany. Organic agriculture is in balance with natural processes and limits the use of synthetic substances. Research has shown that burdock fruit extract boosts collagen production in the skin, helping to reduce the appearance of wrinkles. NIVEA sources this special variety of organic burdock, called nuda, from Saxony-Anhalt in eastern Germany.
By focusing on responsible material sourcing, NIVEA is making significant strides towards sustainability, ensuring that its use of natural resources supports both the environment and local communities.
