The Lenzing Group, the world's largest provider of sustainably produced specialty fibers, welcomes the release of the Single-Use Plastics Directive implementation guidelines (EU) which took effect on June 5, 2019. The EU Commission clarifies in these guidelines that wet wipes and feminine hygiene products are included in the directive's scope.

Starting on July 3, 2021, the Commission's implementing rule for the Single-Use Plastics Directive mandates universal labeling requirements for select single-use plastic items on the packaging or the product itself. They include plastic-containing feminine hygiene products and wet wipes for personal and home care.

Member of the managing board of Lenzing Group, Robert van de Kerkhof, said environmental pollution, particularly marine contamination, is one of the most pressing issues of the day. As a result, they applaud the EU's efforts to eliminate single-use plastics and migrate to closed-loop models.

He added for many years, Lenzing has invested in the development of sustainable and creative solutions for the textile and nonwovens sector, and they will continue to work hard in the future to achieve systemic change toward a circular economy.

The company said that Lenzing’s wood-based, biodegradable cellulosic fibers such as those of the Veocel brand offer a sustainable and creative answer to this man-made problem.

Lenzing is a forerunner in the manufacturing business, particularly in the fiber market, thanks to its sustainability targets. Its significant efforts in creating sustainable solutions and achieving climate goals centered on carbon neutrality not only boost the company's market position and improve shareholder value but also create new employment on a constant basis.

Vice president global nonwovens business at Lenzing, Jürgen Eizinger, the problem of cleanliness is becoming increasingly significant, and it is particularly urgent in light of the current pandemic situation. Consumers may make more informed purchasing decisions thanks to the Single-Use Plastics Directive. That's why they're glad to see these new implementation guidelines, which give more clarity. 

He added Veocel fibers from Lenzing already provide a natural answer to the problem of global plastic waste, and the firm is constantly growing its capacity for wood-based specialty fibers in order to encourage the creation of sustainable wipes and hygiene products.

Lenzing provided consumers with clear information in their purchase selections even before the Single-Use Plastics Directive was implemented. Products having the Veocel brand emblem on their packaging have been manufactured in accordance with strict certification requirements. As a result, consumers may be confident that the goods include biodegradable cellulosic elements.

Lenzing has been supporting a campaign to raise awareness and transparency regarding materials used in wet wipes since the end of 2019 as part of its environmental campaign #ItsInOurHands, in partnership with its partners.