DSM appoints new head of sustainability for personal care

The personal care, home care and fine fragrance supplier has announced the appointment of Gaelle Bathany as director Sustainability for its personal care unit.

Explaining the company’s emphasis on sustainable practices, DSM says: “Sustainability has long been the core value at DSM, with a focus on delivering science-based, scalable solutions.

“The company is committed to meeting sustainability challenges as outlined in the UN Sustainable Development Goals through collaboration with governments, fellow companies, civil society organizations, and consumers.”

In her new position, Bathany will focus on creating value in sustainability for DSM’s Personal Care & Aroma ingredients customers.

‘No longer a choice’

Bathany asserts that her appointment participates in an industry-wide culture shift, that has seen sustainability become an integral part of any business model, rather than an optional extra.

“Sustainability is no longer a choice. It is essential if we are to continue to be viable,” she says.

“We must embed sustainability in our strategy to ensure long-term business relationships with our customers, attract young talents as employees, and help resolve the challenges our planet is facing."

The new Director for sustainability indicates that sustainable practices are varied and can be far-reaching.

Our company is actively taking steps to tackle some of the biggest issues in this industry, such as traceability in sourcing, fair trade and ethical production, especially in the context of growing demand for natural and organic products in personal care,” she says.

“In response to the challenge of rising skin cancer rates globally the business is initiating a number of activities to positively impact public health.

“However, we understand that we are only at the beginning of our journey, and reaching out to our customers to strengthen and align our common sustainability goals is the next logical step.”