Chemistry

We recognize that our greatest impact on the environment arises from the use of our products. One of our core business strategies is product innovation. Deb leads the market with innovative formulations which are environmentally friendly.

• Product development includes an environmental impact study at the feasibility stage. Every new product must improve upon its predecessor. Simply matching current performance is not enough for Deb.
• Deb pioneered the use of scrubbing agents in heavy duty hand cleansers which are derived from natural ingredients and biodegrade rapidly. Deb holds patents for the use of cornmeal scrubbers, and also uses ground olive stones as scrubbers.
• Deb developed the use of detergents made from plants. We hold patents covering the use of detergents made from sunflower seeds, and also from citrus fruits. We recognize our role in encouraging development of chemicals from sustainable sources.
• We also pioneered the use of foaming soaps, as an alternative to lotion soaps, and again have the patents to prove our leadership in this field. Foam soaps have many environmental benefits, including a lower chemical usage per hand wash, and reduced water consumption because there is no need to lather the soap. Indeed, independent research, commissioned by Deb Group, shows that organisations could use up to 45% less water by switching from lotion soap to Deb’s foam soap.
• Our international scientific network helps ensure that we use research evidence from around the world to determine the environmental impact of the ingredients we select. For example, we phased out the use of nonyl phenols years before they were banned.