BASF, in collaboration with the pioneering castor bean program Pragati, has introduced certified traceability for bio-based solutions in the footwear industry. Pragati was established with the sustainability code SuCCESS (Sustainable Castor Caring for Environmental and Social Standards), setting a benchmark for certified sustainable castor oil production. This initiative ensures that castor oil used in bio-based footwear solutions meets stringent environmental and social standards. The certified traceability not only enhances sustainability in the supply chain but also supports responsible sourcing, benefiting both the environment and local communities involved in castor bean cultivation.

The demand for sustainable footwear solutions has been rising in line with increasing consumer awareness. Footwear brands and manufacturers aim to improve the sustainability of their products without compromising cost, performance, or quality. Bio-based solutions, such as those derived from castor oil, offer significant sustainability benefits by reducing reliance on fossil resources. Castor oil is sourced from the seeds of the non-edible castor oil plant (Ricinus communis), which thrives in arid or semi-arid regions and requires minimal water, and its dried beans have a long shelf life.

BASF's footwear segment is pioneering sustainable practices by introducing certified traceable bio-based polyurethane solutions. These innovative materials ensure that the company can cater to the rising demand for eco-friendly footwear products in the Asian market. Andy Postlethwaite, Senior Vice President of Performance Materials Asia Pacific at BASF, highlights the significance of this development, showcasing the company's dedication to environmental responsibility. This move not only addresses consumer preferences for greener options but also positions BASF as a leader in sustainable solutions, reinforcing their commitment to driving positive environmental impact within the footwear industry.

Mr. Postlethwaite mentioned that BASF aims to expand the application of their bio-based solutions beyond the footwear segment. This indicates the company's intention to integrate these sustainable materials into various other product lines and industries, broadening their impact on sustainability and environmental responsibility across different sectors.

The Pragati initiative, launched in May 2016 in Gujarat, India, where approximately 70% of the world's castor beans are produced, has transformed over 7,000 hectares of semi-arid land to be farmed sustainably under the SuCCESS code. This program has trained, audited, and certified more than 7,000 farmers, resulting in the cultivation of over 74,500 tons of certified castor seeds. Notably, the yield in year seven was 36% higher than local government reports for the region, underscoring the initiative's success in enhancing agricultural productivity and sustainability.