In a remarkable leap forward for sustainability in global supply chains, Nagase Viita Co., Ltd., operating under the umbrella of the NAGASE Group and based in Okayama, Japan, has been awarded the prestigious “Platinum” rating by EcoVadis SAS, a France-based authority in corporate sustainability analysis. This accolade places Nagase Viita at the zenith of environmental stewardship, vaulting it into the top 1% of over 130,000 assessed companies worldwide. The honor is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and exemplary performance across critical metrics of corporate responsibility.

EcoVadis, renowned for its rigorous evaluation framework, scrutinizes companies across 180+ countries and more than 220 industries. The assessment zeros in on four pillars of sustainability: Environment, Labor & Human Rights, Ethics, and Sustainable Procurement. It is worth noting that Nagase Viita’s journey to the top has been both progressive and inspiring. Having secured a Gold rating in 2022 followed by a Silver in 2023, the leap to Platinum in 2024 underscores a significant year-on-year enhancement in the company’s sustainability practices, particularly in environmental policies, labor and human rights initiatives, and sustainable procurement strategies.

A key factor underpinning Nagase Viita’s success in the assessment was its strategic emphasis on using eco-friendly or bio-based input materials. This approach not only signifies the company’s dedication to reducing its ecological footprint but also showcases its innovation in leveraging sustainable resources, aligning closely with the broader global mandate to mitigate environmental impact and foster a sustainable future.

The attainment of the Platinum rating is not merely a recognition of past and current achievements but also a beacon guiding Nagase Viita’s future endeavors. Bolstered by this accolade, the company is set to advance its commitment towards the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and to catalyze change within its industry and beyond, aiming to address wider social issues through its business operations. The recognition from EcoVadis reaffirms Nagase Viita’s position as a leader in the realm of sustainability, inspiring other companies to follow suit in integrating eco-conscious and ethical practices into their business models.

Originating in 1883 as a syrup manufacturer under the name Hayashibara Co., Ltd., Nagase Viita has undergone a remarkable transformation. Today, it stands at the forefront of innovation, specializing in the utilization of microorganisms and enzymes to produce an eclectic range of functional materials. These span across diverse domains, including food, personal care, pharmaceuticals, and the industrial and agricultural sectors. The recent rebranding to Nagase Viita on April 1, 2024, marks a new chapter in the company’s history, symbolizing a unified vision and enhanced synergy within the NAGASE Group to propel innovation and deliver value on a global scale.

As Nagase Viita strides forward, armed with the EcoVadis Platinum rating, it is set to reinforce its mission of fostering a sustainable society, proving that corporate success and ecological responsibility can go hand in hand. This achievement not only elevates the company’s stature but also serves as an industry benchmark, encouraging businesses worldwide to prioritize sustainability at the heart of their operations. For more information on Nagase Viita and its pioneering efforts, visit the company’s website at https://group.nagase.com/viita/en/.