Henkel began to consider environmental and social issues and to take public expectations seriously at a very early stage. Throughout its 130-years history, the company has demonstrated its commitment to protect the environment as well as the health and safety of its consumers and employees. For example, the Company introduced regular ecological testing of detergents and household cleaners as long ago as 1959. In 1991, Henkel was one of the first companies to sign the Business Charter for Sustainable Development of the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC).
In its Vision & Values, Henkel has declared its dedication to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. Recognizing the need to harmonize economic, ecological and social goals, Henkel actively accepts responsibility within its sphere of influence and thus contributes to the global implementation of sustainable solutions.
Products and technologies that make people's lives easier, better and more beautiful are the basis of the Company's business. Acting responsibly throughout the value chain is a key factor in conducting this business.
As a visible sign of its commitment, in July 2003 Henkel declared its participation in the United Nations' Global Compact.
Environmental protection, safety, health, and quality aspects have been given a top priority at Henkel for decades. Continuous improvement in these areas is an integral part of our Vision & Values. Henkel has therefore drawn up binding standards and requirements which are implemented at every site all over the world. Their implementation is regularly checked by means of internal audits and external certifications.
Outstanding quality of our products means more than convenience and high performance. It includes all-encompassing product safety and ecological compatibility. Customers and consumers alike can depend upon the fact that Henkel products and technologies have been tested thoroughly to ensure that, when used as intended, they are safe for health and the environment.
Potential risks that may be associated with new products are systematically assessed as early as the research and development phases. The principles of sustainability and corporate social responsibility are taken into consideration from the outset in our research projects and product development.
The solvent-free Pritt Stick celebrated its 35th anniversary in 2004. An environmental and economic success: more than one billion units sold. Henkel obviously places particularly high priority on its ecological compatibility and product safety, especially as it is often used by children. The Pritt Stick is solvent-free, PVC-free and certified to comply with stringent EU child safety legislation.
The Pritt Stick shows how Henkel replaced mineral oil based raw materials by suitable renewable raw materials at an early stage. In 1991, Henkel started to develop alternatives to a variety of raw materials. The prospect of finding a substitute raw material that would reduce dependence on mineral oil based polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) was also economically interesting, as the great demand for PVP was met by just a few suppliers. The quality of the glue stick produced with an alternative raw material had to be at least equal to that of the existing product. Starch ether was identified as a potential alternative raw material, as starch has good adhesive properties when it is appropriately chemically modified. After a development period and a test phase of two years, consumer tests were successfully concluded and the first generation of the starch-based Pritt Stick was produced. In 2000, PVP was finally completely replaced. Worldwide, Henkel is the only supplier of starch-based glue sticks.
The compatibility of Henkel products and technologies with health and the environment is assessed in detail. This involves evaluating the properties of the individual ingredients, their concentrations in the product, and the conditions under which the product is to be used. If, despite appropriately designed packaging and detailed instructions, products are used incorrectly or mishaps occur, Henkel customers and consumers can always contact its advice services as well as special hotlines for emergencies.
Consumer Advice: E-Mail
How is a Pritt Stick made? Find out here. Or visit the Henkel Pritt Stick factory in Düsseldorf, Germany!
