Sustainable development

Sustainability in aromatherapy and phytotherapy: a shared responsibility.

In French aromatherapy, the concept of “responsible aromatherapy” is gaining ground. Although the term “responsible” suggests environmental awareness and fair trade, sustainable development encompasses a broader range of considerations.

Identifying the different dimensions of sustainable development makes it possible to make sustainable choices and assess their impact.

Precise terminology also helps us take a position on economic, social and environmental issues at the societal level.

Aromatherapists are part of this discussion. Aromatherapy and phytotherapy have a future only if all stakeholders recognise respect for people and nature as fundamental values.

For example, choosing a natural product does not necessarily constitute a sustainable choice when the entire supply chain is taken into account. If sourcing a natural product depletes resources without regard for their natural regeneration, damages ecosystems, reduces biodiversity or exploits workers under unfair conditions, such trade appears unsustainable in the long term.

1. Commitment and active involvement (of businesses and consumers)
2. Respect for stakeholders
3. Protection of natural resources and ecosystems
4. Sustainable cultivation and harvesting methods
5. Biodiversity and the conservation status of plant species
6. Fair trade
7. Commitment to and support for communities
8. Ethical marketing
9. Quality of products, education, publications and applications in therapeutic or clinical settings
10. Transparency, traceability and authenticity

Explore the transparency framework for essential oils and plant extracts, helping brands document their practices and buyers make informed decisions.

Make informed choices when selecting essential oils, hydrosols, and other plant extracts.

Ethics and sustainable development are inseparable. Acting ethically involves making choices concerning virtually every aspect of aromatherapy and phytotherapy, whether for personal or professional use.

How can consumers and aromatherapists incorporate ethical considerations into their purchasing decisions?

A code of ethics for sustainable aromatherapy could be structured around the following themes:

1. Commitment

Commitment to sustainable aromatherapy and phytotherapy is based on the adoption of ethical principles by businesses and consumers, together with the active involvement of all stakeholders in addressing the challenges facing these disciplines.

2. Respect for stakeholders

Respect for stakeholders is based on three principles: fair trade, ethical marketing, and the health and safety of producers and consumers.

3. Ecology

Ecology encompasses sustainable cultivation and harvesting methods that respect natural resources and ecosystems, environmentally sound agricultural practices, and the protection of biodiversity and ecosystems.

4. Quality

Quality covers products, education, publications and applications in therapeutic settings, as well as transparency throughout the supply chain and product authenticity.