We are involved in networks within the nonwovens, cosmetics, and chemical industries, as well as in initiatives concerning critical raw materials and climate protection. This exchange supports us in implementing our sustainability strategy.
Our association work is independent: we pay exclusively the prescribed membership fees. Donations to political parties or elected officials are prohibited at Nölken.
the European Disposables and Nonwovens Association (edana) is an international association of manufacturers of nonwovens and related products. The association's goals are the active provision of information and an open dialogue with its members. We participate in the development of industry standards, particularly in the working groups for Wet Wipes, Absorbent Hygiene Products, Circular Economy for Personal & Healthcare, and Sustainability for Personal & Healthcare. We contribute to the development of industry standards, e.g., regarding environmental claims and EU legislation on viscose wet wipes.
As a manufacturer of care and cleaning products, we are a member of the German Cosmetic, Toiletry, Perfumery and Detergent Association (Industrieverband Körperpflege- und Waschmittel e. V. -IKW) on. The IKW supports its members by providing advice and assistance in their business activities, thereby promoting the economic development of its members. We use this platform as an early source of information regarding national and European legislative changes in the cosmetics sector.
German Chemical Industry Association (VCI) represents the interests of the chemical industry in politics, business, science, and the media. Nölken uses its VCI membership to stay informed at an early stage about topics such as REACH, energy and climate policy, research and innovation, and sustainability in the chemical industry.
The Palm Oil Forum (FONAP, with the aim of making 100 % certified palm oil available in the DACH region. Bringing together representatives from industry, trade, politics, and NGOs, FONAP develops solutions for socially and environmentally responsible palm and palm kernel oil. Nölken has been actively involved in various working groups and task forces since 2013, and also supports Wild Asia's field project in Malaysia through FONAP. This helps transform the journey of palm oil from the field to the consumer by demonstrating how palm oil regions can become transparent, regenerative supply centers. Further information on the FONAP project can be found here.
The Alliance for Development and Climate Foundation (SAEK) combines long-term development with global climate protection. It relies on voluntary compensation and climate financing for emissions that cannot be avoided or reduced. Nölken has been a member since 2021 because we promote and value expert exchange with other member companies. Nölken measures its emissions (Scopes 1 - 3) annually using the GHG Protocol and publishes them in its current sustainability report. A climate transformation plan with interim targets and measures is in development for 2026.
Nölken has been a co-signatory of the UN Global Compact since 2011 (UNGC) and is committed to the ten principles in the areas of human rights, labor standards, environmental protection, and anti-corruption. These principles form the basis of our business practices. How we implement these principles is reported in our current sustainability report.
As a member of the German Society for Quality (DGQ), Nölken is taking a stand for our understanding of quality and our continuous development. The DGQ stands for the promotion of quality in business and society – an attitude that we share and actively live. Through our membership, we benefit from expert exchange, current impulses from science and practice, as well as a strong network of quality managers from a wide range of industries.
Nölken is also active in associations and initiatives:
