Cosmetics' Dark Secret: Plastic Waste Crisis

The cosmetics industry has an ugly side: plastic waste. With the rise of consumerism, the cosmetic industry has gained a high level of demand, but this comes with socio-environmental consequences. The global beauty industry produces an estimated 120 billion units of plastic packaging waste annually, 7.9 billion of which are rigid plastic units created just for beauty and personal care products in the US. The industry's plastic footprint has increased by 120 times since 1960, with 70% of that waste ending up in landfills. While some companies are working on better ways to deliver beauty products, such as package-free or no-plastic packaging, the challenge of cutting back on or eliminating plastic packaging is not a small one.

Solid alternatives to liquid products

The global beauty industry produces an estimated 120 million units of packaging annually, with packaging accounting for 70% of the industry's waste. The US alone created 7.9 billion units of rigid plastic for the cosmetics industry. The amount of plastic packaging on US products has increased by over 120 times since 1960, with nearly 70% of that waste ending up in landfills.

To reduce plastic waste, consumers can opt for solid alternatives to liquid products. Solid products are often packaged without plastic, reducing waste. For example, shampoo is typically housed in a plastic bottle, but solid shampoo bars are now available from companies like Lush Cosmetics, J.R. Liggett, and Chagrin Valley. These bars are just as cleansing and moisturising as their liquid counterparts and are often formulated without harsh ingredients. Solid conditioner bars, such as those offered by Ethique, can also be used as shaving bars and in-shower moisturisers.

Solid alternatives are also available for other liquid products, including body wash, which can be replaced by soap bars, and face and body lotion, which can be substituted with moisturising sticks or lotion bars. Face washes, toners, and exfoliating cleansers are also available in solid form, providing mess-free options for skincare routines. Solid toothpaste is another option for cutting down on liquids, although most non-liquid toothpastes lack fluoride, making them more suitable for short-term use.

Non-recyclable plastic packaging

The cosmetics industry generates approximately $341.1 billion annually and 120 billion units of plastic packaging, most of which is non-recyclable. The personal care and beauty industry produces more than 120 billion units of packaging every year globally, with almost 7.9 billion units of rigid plastic being created for beauty and personal care products in the US alone in 2018. This is a significant contributor to the global plastics crisis and is set to get worse as the market grows.

The use of petroleum derivatives in cosmetics, including in packaging, has had negative environmental impacts. Plastic packaging is often single-use, with low recycling rates, and can take up to 450 years to break down in a landfill. In 2018, the recycling rate of PET bottles and jars was 29.1%, and the rate for HDPE natural bottles was 29.3%. However, coloured PET is much harder to recycle, and only 1% of PP, a type of plastic commonly used in cosmetics tubes, is recycled globally. Overall, the amount of recycled plastics is relatively small, with only 9% of the world's plastic recycled since 1950.

The cosmetics industry's contribution to plastic waste is a growing concern, and steps need to be taken to reduce plastic consumption and improve recycling and reuse practices. Some alternatives to non-recyclable plastic packaging include biodegradable materials, which can decompose with the aid of microorganisms, and reusable packaging, which has been shown to significantly reduce environmental impacts. Consumers can also play a role by opting for products with little to no plastic packaging or choosing shops that offer refills for containers.

Microplastics in cosmetics

The use of plastic in the beauty industry has come under scrutiny in recent years, with consumers and companies alike demanding change. The global beauty industry produces an estimated 120 million units of packaging annually, with packaging accounting for 70% of the industry's waste. This has led to a growing awareness of the environmental impact of the cosmetics industry and a desire for more sustainable practices and products.

Microplastics, or microbeads, are small, manufactured plastic particles used in commercial production. They are often added to cosmetics as exfoliators, stabilizers, or to add texture. These microplastics can be found in a variety of products, including facial scrubs, body wash gels, skincare products, and makeup items such as eyeshadow, blush, and lipstick. They are also used in sun protection products and deodorants. While they may be microscopic, they are intentionally added to cosmetics and personal care products as solid particles smaller than 5 mm.

The issue with microplastics is that they are not easily identifiable and can be listed under various names, making it challenging for consumers to avoid them. Additionally, they are difficult to clean up due to their small size, and they accumulate in the environment, posing potential risks to ecosystems and human health.

Some companies are taking steps to reduce or eliminate microplastics in their products. For example, L'Oréal has been working on reformulating its products since 2014, and other companies are reimagining their products as solids to decrease the need for plastic packaging. Consumers are also encouraged to reduce, reuse, recycle, and refuse single-use plastics and to support companies that are committed to sustainability.

Plastic waste in production processes

The cosmetics industry produces a significant amount of plastic waste, with an estimated 120 billion units of plastic packaging generated annually. This waste includes not only the packaging of beauty products but also the waste generated during the production processes. While the exact amount of plastic waste arising from production processes is challenging to ascertain, it is evident that this contributes significantly to the overall environmental footprint of the cosmetics industry.

The production processes in the cosmetics industry involve various stages, from raw material acquisition to manufacturing and distribution. At each stage, there is a potential for plastic waste generation. For instance, during the sourcing of raw materials, plastic containers and packaging may be utilised for transportation and storage. This includes the use of plastic barrels, bottles, or bags to hold liquids, powders, or other cosmetic ingredients.

Manufacturing facilities may also generate plastic waste through the use of plastic equipment, such as pipes, tubes, or storage tanks. The process of mixing, blending, and formulating cosmetic products may involve the use of plastic components that need to be replaced or discarded periodically. Additionally, there may be plastic waste associated with the cleaning and sanitising processes, as disposable plastic materials are often used for hygiene and sanitation purposes.

Furthermore, the distribution and transportation of finished cosmetic products to retailers and consumers also contribute to plastic waste. This includes the use of plastic wrapping, shrink film, and packaging materials to protect the products during shipping. Plastic pallets, crates, or containers may also be used to facilitate the efficient movement of goods. While some of these materials can be recycled, the complexity of the recycling process, coupled with the varying recyclability of different plastics, poses significant challenges.

To address the issue of plastic waste in production processes, the cosmetics industry needs to adopt more sustainable practices. This includes exploring alternative materials, reducing excess packaging, and implementing recycling and reuse initiatives. By working collaboratively across the supply chain, cosmetic brands can drive change and minimise the environmental impact of their operations. Open forums and awareness campaigns can also play a crucial role in educating consumers about the hazards of plastic waste and promoting behavioural changes that support sustainability.

Consumer demand for plastic-free products

The cosmetics industry's plastic waste problem is a significant environmental concern. The global beauty industry generates over 120 billion units of packaging annually, with packaging accounting for 70% of the industry's waste. In the US alone, almost 7.9 billion units of rigid plastic were produced for cosmetic products in 2018. The issue is exacerbated by the fact that only 14% of plastic packaging is recycled, and since 1950, only 9% of the world's plastic has been recycled.

Consumer awareness of the environmental impact of plastic waste from cosmetics is growing, and there is a strong demand for plastic-free alternatives. A 2020 survey by the Plastic Soup Foundation found that 80% of Dutch respondents were worried about the presence of plastic in their cosmetics, and 70% wanted a ban on microplastics in cosmetic products. Consumers are increasingly seeking plastic-free options, and companies are responding to this demand.

The Beat the Microbead app, launched in 2012 by the Plastic Soup Foundation, empowers consumers to make informed choices by scanning product packaging and identifying the presence of microplastics. The app has been downloaded over 245,000 times worldwide and provides a traffic light system to indicate the level of plastic content in products. It also helps users find over 70 plastic-free alternative brands certified by the foundation's 'Zero Plastic Inside' label.

In addition to seeking plastic-free alternatives, consumers are also embracing DIY personal care products to reduce packaging waste. Individuals are increasingly making their own body scrubs, moisturisers, and toothpaste with ingredients purchased in bulk and packaged in paper or glass. This trend encourages a reduction in plastic waste and promotes cost savings for consumers.

Some companies are answering the call for plastic-free options by offering package-free or no-plastic packaging for personal care and cosmetic products. For example, members of the Plastic Pollution Coalition, such as Annmarie Skincare, MADE SAFE, and Plaine Products, are committed to providing sustainable alternatives.

The cosmetics industry is also witnessing a shift towards solid product formulations that eliminate the need for plastic packaging. Companies like Lush Cosmetics are leading the way by offering solid shampoo bars and bath bombs that replace traditional liquid products packaged in plastic bottles.

As consumers continue to demand plastic-free options and support sustainable brands, the cosmetics industry will be compelled to further reduce its reliance on plastic packaging and ingredients.

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