Sustainability Report 2016 / 2017

30 Initiative Frosch Cradle to Cradle ® Think: Cycles The Cradle to Cradle ® principle stands in con­ trast to the widespread linear production principle cradle to grave in which materials often flow from their sources to their disposal without conscious consideration given to long-term protection of natural resources. Cradle to Cradle ® , on the other hand, is based on designing products for smooth integration into biological or technical cycles. The objective is to use materials that are suitable for a safe and complete return to the biosphere or for recovery and high-quality reuse. Werner & Mertz has internalized this principle. We design new products and packaging to ensure that the quality of their recycled fractions is improved and recycling levels are maintained or increased. Product ingredients, including pigments and additives, are selected to preclude toxic effects during use or in phases of production, recycling and reuse. Crude oil, which is used once for the production of plastics, remains in a closed loop with products based on the Cradle to Cradle ® principle and is not irretrievably lost through incineration. Whenever possible, energy for recycling – as for other production processes – is obtained from renewable sources in ways that protect the environment. Cradle to Cradle ® Products Biodegradation Biological Nutrients Technical Cycle Production Biological Cycle Recycling Technical Nutrients Plants for Consumer Goods (Packaging) for Consumer Goods (Cleaning chemicals) Use Use