Our raw materials
The ethical sourcing of raw materials for our products is particularly important to us. Therefore, we have been a member of the Union for Ethical Biotrade since 2011.
Our supply chain is sustainable and equitable
When you purchase our natural skin care products, you contribute to a world in which both people and biodiversity can thrive. Not only do we ensure that our natural raw materials are grown organically or biodynamically, but also that the people who grow and harvest them are treated fairly and with respect. We also want to be able to trace our natural raw materials back to their source. As a member of the Union for Ethical BioTrade (UEBT), we adhere to the strict social, economic and ecological criteria set by the organisation. The values it defines are for the benefit of both people and planet.
Our commitment to sustainable sourcing
Over 80 percent of our certifiable raw materials are sourced from certified organic farming and, wherever possible, from biodynamic farming. We are working to increase this percentage every year. Through new partnerships with certified organic producers and new organic and biodynamic cultivation projects. We also place great emphasis on the quality of our ingredients. Many of the plants we use for our natural cosmetics and medicines are grown in our own gardens. We also source raw materials through long-standing partners.
Our Vision is to be a benchmark company on ethical and sustainable sourcing within our industry.
Ethical sourcing is a top priority
We want you to know exactly what you are getting from us. Weleda has been a full member of the Union for Ethical BioTrade (UEBT) since 2011. The non-profit organization aims to contribute to a world where people and biodiversity thrive. It is committed to the regeneration of nature and a better future for people through the ethical sourcing of raw materials from biodiversity. The non-profit organization was established as an initiative of the United Nations. It maintains close partnerships with UN organizations, such as the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
The 7 principles of the UEBT standard
- Conservation of biodiversity
- Sustainable use of biodiversity
- Fair and equitable sharing of benefits derived from the use of biodiversity
- Socio-economic sustainability (productive, financial and market management)
- Compliance with national and international legislation
- Respect for the rights of actors involved in BioTrade activities
- Clarity about land tenure, right of use and access to natural resources
Our goal is to preserve and sustainably use biodiversity to the greatest extent possible during the cultivation, harvest, and further processing of the plants. To treat all cultivation partners fairly, uphold human and labor rights, and promote community development.
Discover the source of our raw materials
In agricultural management, our focus is not only on sourcing raw materials but also on taking responsibility. A significant portion of our plant-based raw materials comes from agricultural production, and at the same time, global agriculture is affected by the climate crisis like no other sector. Those who purchase Weleda products also expect commitment along the supply chain, extending beyond procurement. On issues such as soil health, biodiversity, and social engagement, Weleda becomes an active participant on the ground and can implement sustainability goals.
Damask roses from Morocco
We source the ‘Rose Absolue’, a precious fragrance extracted from the blossoms of Damask roses, from Morocco. The rose petals are harvested exclusively by hand. We collaborate with a women's cooperative and, together with our Moroccan partner, have established a facility where the women have access to basic infrastructure, including washrooms, toilets, and break rooms during working hours, and where their children are cared for.
Fragrant lavender from Bulgaria
The quality of the soil where the lavender grows is important to us. For years, we have closely supported our lavender oil producer in Bulgaria, assisting them in transitioning to regenerative agriculture and Demeter farming. Together with the local community, we have developed and financed a circular economy: the plant material left after distillation is processed into compost, serving as natural fertilizer for the fields.
Arnica Wild Plant Collection
The Romanian Carpathian Mountains are home to perhaps the largest arnica population in Europe. Weleda helps preserve arnica there and supports the local community. A meadow often doesn't yield much for a farmer, but if arnica grows there, it provides an additional source of income, incentivizing the owner to maintain it in its natural state. The sustainable and quality harvesting and processing of wild plants are strictly regulated. Our supplier adheres to jointly developed standards, which include the methods for drying the arnica flowers.
