Symrise Enters Into Strategic Partnership to Preserve Biodiversity

23 May 2014 --- Global supplier of fragrances and flavorings, Symrise, has announced its strategic partnership with the Global Nature Fund (GNF) and the Union for Ethical BioTrade (UEBT). Together they will work to preserve biodiversity around the world.

The non-profit organizations will support Symrise with the implementation of its recently issued biodiversity concept, which is based on three pillars: The sustainable sourcing of natural raw materials, the eco-conscious design of Symrise’s sites and raising awareness among employees on preserving biodiversity. Symrise has set itself specific goals that it aims to reach by 2020.

“Biological diversity helps secure the long-term success of the company, as we depend on natural raw materials,” said Dr. Felix Schuppert, a member of the Symrise Sustainability Board and head of sustainable purchasing. “Intact ecosystems and the diversity of nature are an irreplaceable source of raw materials and inspiration for flavors, fragrances, cosmetic and functional ingredients.”

“There is another important aspect to our commitment to biodiversity besides ensuring raw materials supplies,” added Dr. Helmut Frieden, Head of the Symrise Sustainability Board and responsible for compliance. “We also want to take advantage of entrepreneurial opportunities.”
It is for this reason that Symrise had GNF and the corporate consulting firm Dokeo perform a biodiversity check in 2012 to analyze both entrepreneurial risks stemming from a loss of biodiversity as well as possible business opportunities arising from effective commitment to maintaining biological diversity. Sustainability is a central element of the corporate strategy. Economic success and corporate responsibility are therefore inextricably linked at Symrise.

Biodiversity in flora and fauna is dramatically decreasing around the world: Species are 1,000 times more likely to go extinct due to human influence than through the result of natural conditions. Many ecosystems that supply important natural resources are in danger. With the International Day of Biological Diversity, the United Nations hope to raise public awareness about this issue.