Beiersdorf
Redesigning formulations to manage wastewater and regulatory risk
Climate and nature-related risk: Persistent ingredients and aquatic pollution creating regulatory, compliance and potential financial exposure
Solution pathway: Ingredient assessment; formulation redesign; substitution with biodegradable alternatives
Business type: Large consumer goods companyÂ
Sector: Beauty, skincare and personal careÂ
Geography: Germany; European consumer-product portfolio Â
In practice
The company targeted exclusive use of biodegradable polymers in European consumer-product formulations by the end of 2025. It reported using 77% fewer non-biodegradable polymers than in 2018, but did not meet the full target because some applications still required them to maintain product performance.Â
The revised EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive strengthens the business relevance of this work by introducing producer responsibility for micropollutant treatment, with contributions linked to the quantity and hazardousness of substances. Formulation changes can therefore support both pollution prevention and regulatory preparedness. Any reduction in future treatment liabilities will depend on the substances concerned and how the rules apply.Â
Why this example was selected
The company targeted exclusive use of biodegradable polymers in European consumer-product formulations by the end of 2025. It reported using 77% fewer non-biodegradable polymers than in 2018, but did not meet the full target because some applications still required them to maintain product performance.Â
The revised EU Urban Wastewater Treatment Directive strengthens the business relevance of this work by introducing producer responsibility for micropollutant treatment, with contributions linked to the quantity and hazardousness of substances. Formulation changes can therefore support both pollution prevention and regulatory preparedness. Any reduction in future treatment liabilities will depend on the substances concerned and how the rules apply.Â
