Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR)

NILO weaves Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) into the fabric of its mission,actively embracing all four pillars of CSR: Environmental Responsibility, Ethical Responsibility, Philanthropic Responsibility and Economic Responsibility. By supporting sustainable development within the local community, NILO combines innovation, environmental awareness, and education to pave the way for a greener and more responsible future.

Environmental Responsibility

NILO is deeply committed to minimizing its environmental impact through innovative practices and proactive initiatives. NILO actively works to reduce its environmental footprint through a combination of internal and external initiatives.

NILO is deeply committed to realizing a Green Circular Economy through internal and external initiatives, focusing on reducing its ecological footprint with innovative practices and proactive efforts.

Within its operations, NILO takes a comprehensive approach to waste management by partnering with approved alternative management systems to ensure the proper disposal, recycling, and utilization of various types of waste. This commitment to environmentally responsible practices extends across multiple waste streams, enabling the company to minimize its environmental impact and contribute to a circular economy. These streams include:

1. Electrical and Electronic Equipment Waste (WEEE):
   • Recycling of electrical and electronic devices and small appliances, light bulbs, toner cartridges, and ink containers, through “Recycling Appliances S.A.”
2. Lubricant Oil Waste (L.O.W.):
   • Processing and regeneration of waste oils generated during the maintenance and repair of electromechanical equipment and company vehicles, through authorized alternative management systems.
3. Portable Batteries and Accumulators:
   • Recycling through the “Recycling of Portable Battery Systems (AFIS).”
4. Used Vehicle Tires:
   • Proper disposal and recycling to reduce waste and environmental hazards, through authorized alternative management systems.
5. Plastic, Paper, and Wood:
   • Managed through the Collective Alternative Management System of the “Hellenic Recycling Company (E.E.A.A.).”

“Through these partnerships and initiatives, NILO demonstrates its dedication to responsible waste management and environmental protection, setting a standard for sustainability within its industry.”

Beyond its own operations, NILO promotes environmental awareness among its customers, suppliers and partners encouraging responsible behaviors that contribute to the preservation of natural resources.

This initiative extends to fostering a culture of sustainability among businesses and individuals, empowering them to adopt eco-friendly practices and make choices that reduce the  environmental footprint.

Packaging innovation is at the heart of NILO’s commitment to sustainability. By rethinking traditional approaches and embracing environmentally conscious practices, the company aims to create solutions that drive meaningful change in reducing environmental impact.

To achieve this, NILO focuses on minimizing virgin plastic usage, incorporating repurposed plastic waste in packaging, and improving material recyclability, in alignment with EU directives on the reduction of virgin plastic and increase of recycled content in everyday packaging. The company also explores alternative sustainable packaging materials that are eco-friendly, energy-efficient, have a lower carbon footprint, and reduce reliance on non-renewable resources.

Collaborating with European partners, NILO has developed a truly innovative packaging made from 100% recycled marine plastic waste, that repurposes fishing nets, trawls and ropes into high quality “Green” plastic for its sustainable Household and Personal Care line “REOCEANUM”. This groundbreaking initiative not only reduces CO2 emissions by up to 18% and energy usage by 89% (compared to virgin plastic) but also contributes greatly to cleaner oceans, actively taking action to protect marine ecosystems and marine biodiversity. 

Building on the sustainable philosophy behind REOCEANUM, NILO furthers its dedication to eco-friendly innovation with “NETS”, a pioneering product line featuring packaging made from recycled agricultural plastic waste, such as plastic nets, strings, and twines. This forward-thinking material transforms agricultural by-products into high-quality “Green” plastic, exemplifying NILO’s commitment to environmentally responsible packaging solutions.

The “NETS” initiative slashes CO2 emissions by an impressive 71% and cuts electricity usage by 88%, compared to virgin plastic. By turning waste into opportunity, NILO not only reduces environmental impact but also champions the circular economy, proving that innovation and sustainability go hand in hand.

By aligning its packaging strategies with EU directives on reducing plastic waste and increasing the use of recycled materials, NILO positions itself as a leader in advancing environmentally friendly solutions. Through these combined strategies, NILO ensures its operations actively contribute to a cleaner, greener future.

As part of its responsible sourcing of raw materials, NILO ensures that palm oil, palm kernel oil, and palm oil derivatives used in its products are sourced exclusively from sustainable cultivation practices. These materials originate from fully traceable plantations that are responsibly managed to actively prevent deforestation, protect biodiversity, and support local communities. All sourcing aligns with the principles and criteria set by the globally recognized Roundtable for Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO), a benchmark for ethical and sustainable palm oil production

NILO prioritizes transparency and accountability in its supply chain, ensuring that every supplier adheres to strict certification standards and environmental stewardship. Customers can trust that the palm oil used in NILO products comes from reputable, certified sources, reflecting the company’s dedication to producing high-quality products with respect for people and the environment.

Ethical Responsibility

NILO upholds high ethical standards in its production and sourcing policies.Its VEGAN Certification underscores a commitment to animal welfare by ensuring that certain products and their components do not include animal-derived ingredients nor undergo animal testing. 

Beyond this, NILO’s ethical approach also extends to the responsible sourcing of raw materials, prioritizing transparency, fairness, and sustainability in its supply chain. These practices promote respect for biodiversity, minimize environmental harm, and align with global standards for ethical and sustainable development, reinforcing trust and integrity in every product.

Ethical sourcing is further demonstrated in NILO’s use of RSPO-certified sustainable palm oil, which ensures traceability and compliance with strict environmental and social criteria. This certification not only protects forests and biodiversity but also promotes social benefits by supporting the livelihoods of workers and local communities involved in palm oil production. RSPO standards uphold fair labor practices, safeguard human rights, and ensure that indigenous communities are respected and consulted in land-use decisions, fostering equitable and sustainable development in palm oil-producing regions.

For NILO, ethical sourcing is essential to ensuring the responsible use of resources, protecting the environment, supporting fair labor practices, and fostering trust and integrity across its entire supply chain.

Philanthropic Responsibility

NILO is committed to supporting and strengthening its local community through meaningful social contributions aimed at addressing the needs of vulnerable populations and ensuring their well-being.

Throughout the years, the company has actively supported many local Social Solidarity Foundations, including the “Volos Orphanage” and the “Ark of the World” (a Child Protection Center). Additionally, NILO has provided donations and sponsorships to the Holy Metropolis of Dimitrias, assisting with various community projects.

In response to the devastating floods that struck Thessaly in September 2023, NILO extended its philanthropic efforts by providing the local municipality with essential cleaning solutions to aid in sanitizing the city. This contribution was crucial in addressing public health concerns arising from the floods, which had left thousands without access to clean water and caused significant environmental damage. By supplying these necessary resources, NILO actively contributed to the recovery and restoration efforts, showcasing its real philanthropic presence in the local community during a time of crisis.

These philanthropic efforts highlight NILO’s dedication to fostering social cohesion, addressing critical community needs, and safeguarding the most vulnerable members of society. Beyond providing financial support, NILO’s actions reflect a deep understanding of the importance of corporate citizenship and its potential to create lasting positive change. By aligning its efforts with core values of compassion and responsibility, NILO actively contributes to the betterment of society, reinforcing its position as a socially responsible and community-focused organization.

Economic Responsibility

NILO’s economic responsibility lies in its dedication to sustainable growth, ethical practices, and value creation for all involved parties. By integrating environmentally friendly practices into its operations, NILO minimizes waste, optimizes resource use, and implements energy-efficient processes that not only reduce costs but also advance environmental objectives. As a leader in private label production and contract manufacturing, NILO supports the growth of partner brands by providing high-quality, innovative, and cost-effective solutions tailored to meet market demands. This approach fosters business success, strengthens partnerships, and contributes to broader economic development.

Beyond its operations, NILO actively engages with its local community by creating jobs, supporting local suppliers, and participating in projects that enhance regional economic resilience. The company’s circular economy initiatives, which focus on recycling, reusing materials, and developing sustainable packaging solutions, exemplify its commitment to reducing environmental impact while driving innovation and economic opportunities in the sustainable materials sector.

Through these efforts, NILO balances profitability with environmental stewardship and social impact, ensuring meaningful progress for its business, partners, and the communities it serves.

Conclusion

By embracing the four pillars of Corporate Social Responsibility—Environmental, Ethical, Philanthropic, and Economic—NILO seamlessly integrates innovation, sustainability, and community engagement into every facet of its operations. This comprehensive commitment not only reinforces the company’s position as a leader in responsible business practices but also drives meaningful progress for the planet, society, and the global economy. Through its forward-thinking approach, NILO delivers impactful solutions that inspire trust, create lasting value, and pave the way for a greener, more equitable future.