How SMEs Can Achieve ESG Goals: Start by Eliminating Chemicals – Less Waste, Lower Costs, Health Protection

From 2026, regulations will come into force requiring many small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to report on their sustainable development (ESG) activities. This is the result of the EU’s CSRD Directive (2022/2464/EU), which obliges companies to disclose information on the impact of their operations on the environment, society, and corporate governance.

Instead of treating ESG as a cost, treat it as an investment – in operational efficiency, customer loyalty, and team health. One of the simplest and most effective ways to take real ESG action is… eliminating chemicals from the environment.

 Implement today, gain an advantage tomorrow

For many SMEs, preparing for ESG reporting may seem challenging, but thanks to simple solutions – such as eliminating chemicals in favor of Raypath technology – it is possible not only to meet formal requirements but also to genuinely improve the company’s functioning. This is an action that already brings tangible environmental, health, and financial benefits today, and in the long term, builds a competitive advantage and the trust of customers and business partners.

Chemical elimination = concrete data in the ESG report

In the Environmental (E) area, ESG reports cover issues such as water consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, waste management, and chemical pollution. The implementation of alternative cleaning methods, such as Raypath cleaners, allows for the complete elimination of household chemicals.
This means:

• No chemical waste that could end up in sewage or soil,
• Reduced plastic consumption because there is no need for detergent bottles,
• Lower water consumption due to more effective cleaning methods,
• Lower CO2 emissions – due to the lack of need to transport and produce chemicals,
• 100% elimination of chemicals.

Each of these values can be included in the ESG report as a measurable effect. Example: “As a result of withdrawing chemical cleaning agents, the company reduced plastic consumption by 60 kg per year and reduced the risk of surface water pollution.

Sample ESG indicators:

• Number of liters of water saved annually,
• Reduction in the amount of plastic packaging (in kg),
• Number of products subject to regeneration or replacement (in units or %),
• Amount of chemicals avoided (kg or liters).

Employee health and safety

In the Social (S) sphere, ESG reporting concerns, among other things, working conditions and employee health. The elimination of chemicals directly improves occupational health and safety:

• No contact with irritating or toxic substances,
• Reduced risk of allergies, irritations, chemical burns,
• No need to use additional protective equipment (e.g., masks or chemical-resistant gloves).

In the ESG report, this can be presented as preventive measures in the field of health prophylaxis: “Replacing chemicals with a water cleaning system has reduced the number of allergy reports and improved work comfort.”

Safe environment for customers

Many companies serve customers directly – e.g., hotels, restaurants, beauty salons, or shops. For them, it is important not only to maintain a beautiful interior but also to ensure a safe, chemical-free space.

The use of ecological cleaning methods is in line with ESG standards as:

• “Concern for customer health and comfort,”,
• “Minimizing exposure to chemical substances,”
• “Educating customers about safe ecological solutions.”

This is not only report content – it is also a marketing asset! Companies can additionally use this topic in educational campaigns, showcasing their commitment to sustainable development and building customer awareness. This is an excellent opportunity to strengthen the image as a responsible, modern, and environmentally conscious company.

Lower costs = better ESG result

Switching from chemicals to a water cleaning system is not only about health and ecology but also about real savings:

• Fewer purchases of detergents,
• No costs of storing and disposing of chemicals,
• Increased work efficiency.

Example: A company employing 50 people can save over PLN 20,000 per year on chemical, logistics, and occupational health and safety costs – with a full transition to a chemical-free cleaning system.

In the ESG report, cost optimization can be indicated as evidence of the effectiveness of the implemented solutions.

Circular economy

Raypath cleaners operate in a Zero Waste system – they can be regenerated, returned for replacement, and do not generate waste. Each element can be replaced indefinitely for half the original price, and users receive a product designed for 5 years of reliable use, backed by an 18-month warranty. Such a closed-loop economy is an important element of the ESG strategy in the E (environmental) and G (governance) areas:

• “The company has implemented a closed-loop system for cleaning materials, reducing textile waste by 80% annually,”
• “The products used are recycled and recovered in accordance with the zero-waste policy.”

Certificates and attestations

For companies that want to document their activities in ESG reports, having credible, external certificates is crucial. Raypath products have:

• ISO 18184:2019 certificate – confirming antiviral activity, including against the MHV-3 coronavirus,
• EKOLABOS certificate – confirming the absence of irritating and allergenic substances,
• Hygienic Attestation of the National Sanitary Inspection – the products meet rigorous sanitary standards and can be used in places where hygiene is crucial,
• European Union certificates – confirming compliance with European quality and safety standards at every stage of production.

Thanks to these certificates, companies can successfully implement Raypath solutions in particularly sensitive industries: medical, hotel, catering, educational, and cosmetic.

ESG checklist: what can you report thanks to the elimination of chemicals?

✅ Water consumption reduction
✅ Reduction of single-use plastics
✅ No chemicals in wastewater
✅ Better working conditions (health, comfort)
✅ Product regeneration and replacement system
✅ Certified, safe solutions
✅ Lower operating costs

Raypath International is a Polish company that has been creating innovative solutions in the spirit of ecology and sustainable development for over 30 years. As a manufacturer of cleaners that work exclusively with water, Raypath boasts two global patents – for unique fibers and thermally bonded nanosilver. The company implements the principles of the circular economy, offering reusable products covered by an 18-month warranty, a 5-year usage guarantee, and the option of lifetime replacement of each element for half the price. Raypath products have ISO, EKOLABOS, and National Sanitary Inspection attestations and meet high European Union standards.

Summary

The introduction of ecological cleaning methods is one of the simplest and, at the same time, most multidimensional ways to meet ESG requirements – in each of the three pillars. It eliminates chemical waste, protects people’s health, and provides specific, measurable data for the report. This is not just a “green change” but a strategic decision that pays off on many levels.

Let’s remember! – a healthy and safe environment is our shared responsibility. Let’s take care of it together! Check out Raypath products