Ontex Group, the international manufacturer of absorbent hygiene products (AHPs) headquartered in Aalst, Belgium, is introducing bio-based superabsorbent polymers (bioSAP) into its diapers, with an initial rollout in selected products.

This new material replaces virgin fossil-based plastic SAP in the core absorbent component, helping lower the carbon footprint of the product while maintaining performance.

SAP (superabsorbent polymer) is essential to diaper performance yet is traditionally made from fossil-based plastic. It is also one of the most carbon-intensive components in AHPs. The bioSAP now being introduced has a 15-25% lower carbon footprint than conventional SAP, with a promising outlook as the technology continues to evolve.

“Every step forward must strike the right balance between environmental ambition and practical solutions,” says Annick De Poorter, Ontex chief innovation and sustainability officer. “That means moving fast where we can, keeping products affordable and making choices that are smart in design and more sustainable by default.”

The Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions of Ontex are largely driven by raw materials, which account for approximately 80% of the company’s total footprint across sourcing, production and end-of-life waste treatment. Materials such as SAP and plastic synthetic nonwovens represent about half of these emissions.

The shift to bioSAP is a strategic move towards achieving an SBTi-validated target to reduce Scope 3 emissions by 25% by 2030. While it is initially rolled out to selected products under the Moltex Pure and Nature brand, available from retailers and online across Europe, the development also lays the groundwork for broader applications. This includes future products and offerings for retail partners.

The conventional SAP available in the market is currently not recyclable or industrially compostable. However, Ontex views biodegradable SAP as a key enabler for multiple circular solutions in the future. The company continues to monitor innovation in this area closely, while remaining realistic about current limitations.

“Consumers today want sustainable products that don’t compromise on affordability, quality or comfort,” says Laurent Nielly, Ontex European president. “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.

www.ontex.com