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The problem of sustainability is gaining prominence in contemporary society, impacting not only environmental degradation but also economical and social dimensions (Bom et al., 2019). Cosmetic industries are recognized as one of the major contributors to this problem. Issues within the cosmetic sector such as the usage of excessive packaging, plastic pollution, and the consumption of unsustainable cosmetic resources are resulting in adverse implications towards our planet (Fletcher, 2023). According to statistical data presented by Zero Waste, the global cosmetics industry generates more than 120 billion units of packaging on a yearly basis, in which a significant proportion of this packaging lacks the necessary attributes for recyclability. Considering this fact, cosmetic industries must undergo transformative changes in order to effectively contribute to advancements in sustainability (Moran, 2022).
The concept of the circular economy is currently highly desired as a means to achieve a sustainable future. It is a framework with a closed-loop process that encompasses the whole lifespan of the materials used, from manufacturing to ultimately recycling it (Gwilt, 2020). This approach maximizes the utilization of all available resources associated with the product. Implementing this strategy enables an industry to exhibit minimum to no waste, contribute positively to the climate, and manufacture with reduced environmental impact. Cosmetics firms have the potential to embrace the circular economy solution, in fact a considerable number of them have already adopted this strategy in the production of their goods. Some companies are adopting responsible sourcing techniques, wherein they prioritize organically grown ingredients and materials to craft biodegradable packaging. Some also promote sustainable consumption behaviors, for instance refilling and reusing containers (Sparknews, n.d.).
Among the 17 sustainable development goals, the 12th SDG is particularly important in response to this issue, that is responsible consumption and production. The concept of sustainability does not only refer to how the product is manufactured, but also applies to how the product is utilized during post production. In order to achieve the 12th SDG, beauty industries must shift towards more eco-friendly practices such as creating green cosmetic formulas or creating biodegradable packaging. As consumers, we can also contribute to sustainability efforts by actively selecting products that are sustainable, such as opting for products that provide refillable rather than single use (United Nations, n.d.).
Reference List
Bom, S., Jorge, J., Ribeiro, H.M. and Marto, J. (2019). A step forward on sustainability in the cosmetics industry: A review. Journal of Cleaner Production, 225(0959-6526), pp.270–290. doi:https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jclepro.2019.03.255.
Fletcher, C. (2023). The Environmental and Health Impacts of the Cosmetic Industry. [online] Earth.org. Available at: https://earth.org/environmental-impacts-cosmetic-industry/#:~:text=Plastics%20do%20not%20break%20down.
Gwilt, A. (2020). A Practical Guide to Sustainable Fashion. London: Fairchild Books.
Moran, G. (2022) Drapers, Collaborating for Change: Sustainability Report
Sparknews (n.d.). A Sparknews report in collaboration with Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna. [online] Available at: https://www.sparknews.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/05/CPBO_CIRCULAR_ECONO
United Nations (n.d.). Goal 12: Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. [online] United Nations Sustainable Development. Available at: https://www.un.org/sustainabledevelopment/sustainable-consumption-production/.
Zero Waste. (n.d.). Zero Waste Home Guide. [online] Available at: https://www.zerowaste.com/zero-waste-home-guide/.