Ontex advances sustainability with new bio-based diaper technology
This initiative showcases Ontex’s leadership in combining innovation and sustainability, reinforcing its mission to deliver effective personal care products that are kind to the planet.
BELGIUM – Ontex has launched a groundbreaking bio-based superabsorbent polymer (bioSAP) technology for its diapers, marking a significant advancement in the company’s sustainability journey.
This innovation replaces the conventional virgin fossil-based plastic SAP, an essential absorbent material known for its high carbon footprint, with a bio-based alternative that reduces the carbon emissions associated with diaper production by 15% to 25%, without compromising on performance or comfort.
The bioSAP technology is currently being integrated into select products within Ontex’s Moltex Pure and Nature brands.
This breakthrough aligns with the company’s broader commitment to sharply reduce its Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions, primarily driven by raw materials like SAP, by 25% by 2030, an objective validated by the Science-Based Targets initiative.
Annick De Poorter, Chief Innovation & Sustainability Officer at Ontex, emphasized the importance of balancing environmental ambition with practicality, stating, “Every step forward must strike the right balance between environmental ambition and practical solutions.”
“That means moving fast where we can, keeping products affordable, and making choices that are smart in design and more sustainable by default.”
The company plans a gradual rollout of bioSAP across its product lines, working closely with retail partners to scale sustainable manufacturing without compromising quality.
Beyond immediate environmental benefits, Ontex is also exploring future developments in biodegradable SAP materials to support the principles of a circular economy further.
Laurent Nielly, President of the Europe division, said, “By taking this step now, we’re laying the groundwork for future breakthroughs.”
“We invite our partners to collaborate with us in scaling up bioSAP and other sustainable innovations, so together we can meet market demands and drive sustainable growth, living up to our promise to be ‘Here for you. Here for the better.”
With this launch, Ontex continues to demonstrate its commitment to developing environmentally responsible hygiene solutions that meet consumer needs while significantly reducing their ecological impact.
Meanwhile, Ontex recently transformed baby diaper technology with its 360° anti-leak protection, a design that provides comprehensive coverage from front to back and side to side, ensuring superior comfort and dryness.
According to the company, this innovation ensures that babies remain secure and protected throughout the day, addressing leak prevention, which is one of the most pressing concerns for parents.
The anti-leak barriers, integrated into Ontex’s smallest diaper sizes, offer protection in all key areas, including a built-in navel cutout that safeguards the umbilical region during early development.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.
