Evonik has launched a sustainable baobab oil sourced from the Sahel region of Ghana as the latest product in its ECOHANCE program.

ECOHANCE Soft Baobab is refined from the non-edible seeds of the baobab fruit and can be used in a wide range of natural cosmetic formulations such as hand creams, hair conditioners and body butters.

In cooperation with the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD), Evonik is supporting the Great Green Wall Initiative, which ensures that the sourcing of the baobab oil protects the local ecosystem and supports social and economic projects in the region. ECOHANCE® Soft Baobab was recently certified by the FairWild™ Foundation.

“Sustainability drives us and collaboration defines us! ECOHANCE® Soft Baobab is a perfect example of how we uphold our core values of environmental and social responsibility. We've partnered with strong allies to build a brand-new supply chain, which allows our cosmetic customers to meet the growing demand for sustainable, high-performing natural products,” said Yann d'Hervé, head of Evonik's Care Solutions business line.

The FairWild Foundation certifies companies and products according to 11 principles and 29 criteria that address ecological, social and economic requirements for sustainable wild collection. By being FairWild certified, ECOHANCE Soft Baobab demonstrates traceable and transparent supply chains. FairWild certification requires annual onsite visits by authorised certification bodies.

Baobab trees grow on poor soil, and tolerate heat and drought, making them essential vegetation for the Sahel and helping to prevent desertification. The wild harvest baobab fruits are traceable down to the collector.

Evonik’s ECOHANCE program was started in 2019 to provide circular solutions for the cosmetic industry.