Responsible sourcing

Corbion is committed to safeguarding the overall positive environmental and social impact of our operations and solutions.

As part of this commitment, we are ensuring our raw materials are sourced responsibly.

Our responsible sourcing strategy focuses on our 5 key agricultural raw materials: sugarcane, soy, corn, wheat, and palm oil, which together represent the majority of our agricultural-derived materials by quantity. Our approach integrates supplier policies, risk assessments, questionnaires, supplier engagement, certification, and audits.

Supplier code

We require all of our raw material suppliers to sign our supplier code for confirmation, or to demonstrate commitment to our code by compliance with company policies that embrace the standards included in our code. Our supplier code defines Corbion's expectations in respect of our suppliers meeting our responsible sourcing commitment. The code includes principles and criteria for business ethics, human rights and labor conditions, and environmental practices.

Security of supply risk assessment

We evaluate all of our raw materials and suppliers on potential risks related to sustainability, as part of our annual security of supply risk assessment. Raw materials/supplier combinations are given a risk score of high, medium or low. For high risk items, mitigation plans are developed and implemented. Mitigation actions may include supplier engagement, additional traceability investigation, SMETA audits, or identification of alternative raw materials or suppliers. Mitigation plans are updated annually to ensure continued awareness and preparation for any potential issues.

Cane sugar, palm oil and soy

Sugarcane, oil palm, and soy cultivation has been linked to a number of serious social and environmental sustainability risks. These include forced and child labor, hazardous labor conditions, conflict over land rights, loss of biodiversity, and deforestation. For these three raw materials, we have integrated more stringent sourcing strategies to minimize the impact. 

For further details on our progress and verification approach, please refer to:

Sustainability performance – Annual Report 2024
Statements, codes and policies