Ready for tomorrow

Our Sustainability Reports

„Sustainability was established at Nölken in 2011 as a department and has always been an integral part of the company’s strategy. Currently, a three-person team is working on the topic of sustainability, which is implemented through resource-saving production, environmentally friendly products, responsible supply chains, and social engagement.

In the annual Sustainability Report, Nölken transparently explains how its own actions impact the economy, the environment, and society. The Sustainability Report illustrates the strategy, goals, and measures, as well as the progress in the three focus areas of products, people, and the environment. The report is aimed at our stakeholders, in particular customers and partners, employees, and the neighborhood.

In April 2026, we published our 15th Sustainability Report in a row. The report covers the period from January to December 2025 and adheres to the requirements of the VSME basic module as well as the additional module. Additionally, with the VSME Plus concept, we report on additional sustainability aspects that cover the specific interests of further stakeholders, and we follow the ten principles of the UNGC.

Highlights of our 2025 Sustainability Report

The current report for the year 2025 sets new standards – both in terms of content and methodology.

  • First Report After Requirements of the VSME basic module and the additional module. In addition, we are reporting on further sustainability aspects with the VSME-Plus concept.
  • 97,5 % the used non-woven fabrics and cellulose fibers, in terms of their mass, were certified according to FSC or PEFC standards
  • 98.5 % % of the composite films used (by weight) were recyclable
  • 99.9 % % of the palm (kernel) oil derivatives used, based on their total weight, were certified according to the RSPO supply chain standard
  • 74 % % of the total procurement volume was purchased in certified quality (RSPO, FSC, PEFC)
  • Nölken is developing one since 2025 Climate Transformation Plan. Concrete intermediate goals, measures, and responsibilities are to be determined, reviewed, and published by the end of 2026.
  • 65.4 % % of the energy consumed was from renewable sources, with 100 % % of the total electricity purchased being renewable electricity
  • Reduction the Waste intensity, the Water intensity and the Energy intensity (Expenses per net sales revenue)

Furthermore, in 2025 we were awarded the ESG Transparency Award awarded, For the German Sustainability Award nominated and have the Won the Ecovadis Gold Medal – a great incentive for our continued commitment. Our understanding of sustainability is based on responsibility, partnership, and openness. It is not just about improving our own performance, but also about working together with customers, suppliers, and partners to promote future-oriented developments.

The next sustainability report will be published in 2027.

This report covers the business activities and impacts of Nölken Hygiene Products GmbH and Noelken Sp. z o.o. The reporting boundaries essentially follow our production boundaries. The publication of the next comprehensive sustainability report is planned for the first half of 2027.

We want to align our company and our products even more sustainably in the future. We can only achieve this through dialogue with you.

Therefore, our request: Tell us your opinions, criticisms, or suggestions. Our online questionnaire can be found here. You are welcome to send us your feedback directly at  write.