Weleda has obtained B-Corp (Certified Benefit Corporation) certification, enabling it to join an international movement of companies with high values and standards anchored in their statutes. While 80 points are required to obtain B-Corp certification, Weleda achieved 106.9 points.
B-Corp certification is awarded by the non-profit organization B Lab, and assesses companies' actions, global approach and impact. The focus is on their social, societal and environmental contributions, reconciling economic activity with the collective interest. This certification attests to the company's commitment to the environment, biodiversity, species and climate protection, human rights, employees and customers. "A force for good" is how B Lab sums up its approach. The global B-Corp movement was born in the United States, with the aim of making the world a better place.
"Working for health and beauty in harmony with people and nature" is Weleda's mission. The company has been guided by this principle since its foundation in 1921, and has always placed sustainability above profit. Serving the environment and the common good is also anchored in the company's articles of association. Becoming a certified B-Corp is a new step for Weleda. B-Corps meet the highest certified standards of social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability. By renewing its certification every three years, Weleda is committed to a process that aims for ever-higher standards and continuous improvement", says the company.
Promoting a global paradigm shift
Worldwide, more than 4,000 B Corp-certified companies from over 150 sectors and 74 countries now stand up for a more inclusive, sustainable economy. Well-known examples include Patgonia, Fairphone and Ben & Jerry's. To obtain certification, Weleda had to answer numerous questions and provide documentation on all aspects of the company.
Over 100 employees were involved in the process. B Lab recognizes Weleda's commitment to sustainable living, for example in its certified natural cosmetics and its fair dealings with partners for the sourcing of plant-based raw materials worldwide.
Consumers are increasingly aware of the impact of consumption on our planet and our society, and are demanding that companies take action. As a pioneer of certified natural cosmetics and homeopathic medicines based on anthroposophically oriented medicine, Weleda takes this responsibility seriously: "Sustainability is at the heart of our business and is anchored in our corporate purpose. Being in harmony with nature and people is only possible if we are a responsible and sustainable company. B-Corp certification helps us to communicate our high standards and philosophy worldwide. In our core markets, Weleda is already recognized as one of the leading responsible natural cosmetics brands. We want to achieve further recognition in other countries, as well as for our pharmaceutical business," says Michael Brenner, member of Weleda's Executive Board and Head of Sustainability.
A Sustainable Beauty Award
During the Sustainable Cosmetics Summit 2021, Laboratoires Weleda was recognized for its environmental commitments. They won the "Sustainable Beauty Award" in two categories: Sustainable Leadership and Sustainable Pioneer. Since 2012, this award has recognized companies around the world working for sustainable development in the cosmetics industry.
The jury also showed interest in Weleda's "unpacking" project, which, for a defined number of organic supermarkets, involved the installation of a device allowing access to body products without packaging. Customers could then fill a reusable container. This project earned Weleda a place in the top 5 finalists in the "Sustainable Packaging" category.
