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(English) Best Practices

Sector
Products – Cleaning and laundry

Keywords
Sustainability Eco –friendly Circular Economy Cruelty Free

From which SME is it?
Ecover

Location
Belgium

Format
Physical, electronic

Years of implementation
Since 1979

Website

Abstract

ECOVER is a company that specializes in producing environmentally friendly and sustainable cleaning and household products. Founded by Frans Bogaerts and Gunther Gobert with a vision to create cleaning products that are effective, biodegradable, and kind to the environment.

The story of ECOVER began with the development of its first product, phosphate-free washing powder, which aimed to reduce the environmental impact of laundry detergents. This innovative product gained popularity, and ECOVER expanded its product range to include various cleaning solutions such as dishwashing liquids, surface cleaners, and personal care products.


Relevance

ECOVER's commitment to sustainability extends beyond its product formulations. The company places a strong emphasis on using renewable resources and minimizing waste throughout its operations. It actively seeks alternative ingredients that are derived from plant-based sources and ensures that its packaging is made from recycled and recyclable materials.


Concepts addressed within ESG

Environmental sustainability, pollution, social responsibility, transparency, waste management


Impact & Achieved Results
  • Environmental Impact: ECOVER has contributed to reducing the environmental footprint of cleaning products. By formulating products with biodegradable ingredients and avoiding harmful substances like phosphates, the company has helped minimize water pollution and harm to aquatic ecosystems. ECOVER's use of renewable resources and sustainable packaging materials has also helped decrease the consumption of non-renewable resources and reduce waste.
  • Circular Economy Initiatives: ECOVER has embraced the principles of the circular economy. The company has implemented recycling programs and initiatives to promote the reuse and recycling of its packaging materials. It has also explored innovative ways to reduce packaging waste, such as developing refillable systems and using recycled plastic in its bottles.
  • Sustainable Sourcing: ECOVER has worked towards ensuring the responsible sourcing of raw materials. The company actively seeks out plant-based ingredients that are grown and harvested sustainably. This approach helps support agricultural practices that protect biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem resilience.
  • Influence on the Industry: ECOVER's pioneering work in developing environmentally friendly cleaning products has had a significant impact on the industry. The company has inspired other brands and manufacturers to adopt more sustainable practices and develop their own eco-friendly product lines. ECOVER's success has helped drive the mainstream acceptance and demand for sustainable alternatives in the cleaning and household products market.

Indicators of performance and success
  • Environmental Metrics: Reduction in carbon emissions, water consumption, waste reduction, use of renewable resources
  • Product Sustainability: Biodegradability, chemical transparency, sustainable packaging
  • Social Impact: Employee well-being, community engagement, supplier relationships
  • Market Performance: Sales growth, Customer satisfaction, Market share

Certifications
  • Ecocert
  • Leaping Bunny
  • Cradle to Cradle
  • EU Ecolabel
  • Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)
  • Vegan Society

Challenges and recommendations
  • According to Supply chain transparency: Ensuring transparency and traceability across the supply chain can be challenging, especially when sourcing raw materials from multiple suppliers or regions. ECOVER can address this challenge by working closely with its suppliers, implementing robust supplier engagement and verification processes, and promoting responsible sourcing practices.
  • Packaging waste: While ECOVER has made efforts to use sustainable packaging materials, reducing packaging waste altogether can be a challenge. ECOVER can explore innovative packaging solutions, such as refillable or reusable containers, and continue to invest in research and development to find more sustainable packaging options.
  • Energy and resource efficiency: Achieving optimal energy and resource efficiency throughout the production process is a continuous challenge. ECOVER can invest in energy-efficient technologies, implement waste reduction measures, and regularly monitor and optimize its resource consumption to minimize environmental impact.

Bibliography