At Smart we are dedicated to sustainability
For over three decades, we have made sustainability a central part of our business. When developing our products, we focus on creating items that can be washed and reused again and again before being recycled. We are convinced that this is the right path forward.
Our microfiber products are designed to enable cleaning with just water—no chemicals needed. We have conducted tests to evaluate the effectiveness of microfiber cleaning, and the results speak for themselves. The analyses show that cleaning with microfiber delivers highly effective results, reducing bacteria more efficiently than traditional cleaning methods—all while remaining completely chemical-free.
Certifications that guide us on our journey toward a sustainable future
Sustainability is central to us and has been for many years. Our products are designed for long-lasting use and minimize the need for chemicals in cleaning. We certify our products with well-known labels such as the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, FSC®, and OEKO-TEX where possible. These certifications are based on strictly defined criteria and third-party audits, ensuring that our products meet high standards for environmental and social responsibility. We do this to ensure the credibility of our sustainability claims.
The Nordic Swan Ecolabel is one of the world’s most trusted ecolabels— a Type 1 label according to ISO 14024. This means that the criteria are set by an independent third party, the Nordic Ecolabelling Board, and are continuously tightened to drive sustainable development forward. The certification is based on a life cycle perspective, ensuring that products and services are assessed holistically—from raw materials and production to use, recycling, and disposal.
FSC® is one of the world’s most respected certifications for responsible forestry. The label ensures that materials such as wood and paper come from sustainably managed forests, where biodiversity is preserved, and social rights are respected. FSC’s requirements are developed through a balanced process involving collaboration between environmental organizations, social stakeholders, and industry. Independent certification bodies verify that companies comply with the standard.
OEKO-TEX 100 is a globally recognized certification that ensures responsible textile production by testing textiles for harmful substances, guaranteeing they are safe for both people and health. The requirements are updated annually based on the latest research and are verified by OEKO-TEX’s own specialized laboratories.
Responsible production with transparent supply chains
Our products are manufactured in Sweden, Europe, and Asia. For us, it is essential to actively map and analyze our supply chains from a sustainability perspective. This includes:
- Internal and third-party inspections of production facilities to ensure compliance with social and environmental requirements.
- Robust quality management and compliance systems that document every step of the supply chain.
- Ongoing dialogue with suppliers and stakeholders to drive continuous improvements.
In 2024, we established a new HREDD policy to guide our efforts in identifying, assessing, and addressing potential shortcomings in the supply chain.
Sustainability efforts aligned with CSRD and ESRS
On our own initiative, we align our sustainability efforts with the EU’s Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the standards outlined in ESRS.
In 2024, we have intensified our efforts by:
- Clarifying policies with measurable targets for environmental impact, social responsibility, and governance.
- Increased supplier requirements with measurable indicators and documented follow-ups.
- Recruitment of a Quality and Sustainability Coordinator to ensure continuous improvement.
- Development of a sustainability strategy based on fact-based and verifiable information.
Measurable results for sustainable development
We have decided not only to meet the requirements set for us but to go beyond them. Our goal is to create long-term sustainability that is both measurable and transparent. By continuously improving our products and processes, we can make a real difference—for the benefit of the environment, our customers, and everyone who uses Smart products.
Linn: Sustainability at Smart Microfiber
Sustainability is, and has long been, an integral part of Smart Microfiber’s business model—long before it became an industry standard. We actively work to reduce our environmental impact, set high standards for our suppliers, and comply with the latest regulations and guidelines. With a clear sustainability strategy and strong commitment, we continue to drive progress forward. Read what our Sustainability Coordinator has to say about our work and vision for the future.
My Background
Sustainability has been my passion for most of my life, and I have always wanted to work with something meaningful—where my job can truly contribute to a better society. That’s why I pursued a degree in Sustainable Development at Linköping University, followed by a master’s in Applied Climate Strategy at Lund University.
After working as a sustainability consultant in the Netherlands, I realized that I wanted to return to Sweden and take on a more internal role where I could closely follow the work, have more creative freedom, and collaborate with all teams. At Smart Microfiber, I found exactly that opportunity. From the very beginning, I was given the freedom to shape my role as Environmental and Quality Coordinator, and it didn’t take long before I felt right at home.
It’s easy to thrive when you don’t have to convince your colleagues that sustainability is both important and profitable. Sharing the same values and standing proudly behind the company makes it a joy to go to work every day.
Sustainability and Smart Microfiber
Sustainability is at the core of Smart Microfiber’s business model, and has been for over 30 years. Cleaning without chemicals, using only microfiber and water, is the heart of our business. The fact that there wasn’t a dedicated sustainability role before was hardly noticeable—sustainability has always been a natural part of the company.
How We Work with Sustainability
We comply with EU and Swedish regulations and draw inspiration from CSRD in our sustainability policy. Transparency is key—we set high standards for our suppliers regarding social and human rights, as well as environmental and climate impact. During the fall and winter, we conducted climate assessments at both the company and product levels to identify and reduce our emissions.
Thanks to on-site staff at our production facilities and third-party inspections, we can ensure compliance with our standards. Additionally, we have fantastic customers who prioritize sustainability, motivating us to continuously evolve and stay at the forefront of our industry.
Our next Step
Sustainability is constantly evolving, with new innovations emerging, and we want to continue leading the way. We have exciting projects underway and remain committed to our sustainability policy—feel free to check it out!
Policies and documentation
In 2024, we have worked intensively to develop our sustainability efforts to align with current and upcoming requirements. If you would like to learn more about our sustainability work, you can access our policies here.
