Green Packaging: The New Cosmetics Revolution

The year 2024 marks a new era in the cosmetics industry. In addition to product composition, brands are tending to take eco-responsibility one step further. Packaging, as a crucial element of the finished product, is at the heart of this green revolution.
From the raw material to the choice of packaging, Ecocert is committed to working alongside companies that implement more virtuous actions at every stage of product design.

Innovations and emerging materials

Innovations in sustainable packaging are guided by two principles: reducing environmental impact and meeting consumer expectations. Emerging materials such as recycled plastics and glass, and bioplastics based on renewable raw materials, are gaining in popularity. These materials represent a promising alternative to traditional fossil-based plastics, with a potentially reduced carbon footprint.

Focus on recycled and recyclable materials

The transition to recycled and recyclable materials is a central pillar of efforts towards more sustainable packaging. Recycled plastics such as r-PET (polyethylene terephthalate) and r-HDPE (high-density polyethylene) offer a less energy-intensive alternative to the production of new plastics. Glass and cardboard, which are easily recyclable, are also favored for their low environmental impact and their contribution to the circular economy.

Carbon footprint reduction

Reducing our carbon footprint is a hot topic right now. To achieve this, cosmetics brands are innovating by integrating low-carbon manufacturing processes. The choice of suppliers (closer to home), and the weight and size of packaging are all choices that can help brands reduce their GHG footprint.

Minimalist, reusable design

Choose minimalism to be eco-responsible: streamlined packaging uses fewer materials, reducing waste. Reusable and refillable solutions are also on the rise, offering more sustainable alternatives. These new concepts create a new experience for the consumer, who becomes a player in sustainability by actively participating in waste reduction.

And what about certification?

It enables brands to demonstrate their efforts and commitments in this area.

Global Recycled Standard (GRS)

The Global Recycled Standard is an international certification attesting to a product's recycled content. By opting for this label, cosmetics brands demonstrate their commitment to reducing the use of virgin resources and minimizing their ecological footprint. In addition to validating the use of recycled materials, the standard also assesses companies' social and environmental practices throughout the supply chain, including respect for workers' rights and the management of chemical substances.

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

The FSC label is dedicated to promoting responsible forest management. Products bearing this label guarantee that the wood or paper used comes from sustainably managed forests, where harvesting practices comply with the strictest environmental, social and economic standards. In cosmetics, FSC-certified packaging can serve as a point of differentiation, demonstrating the brand's commitment to sustainability.

For more sustainable cosmetics with Ecocert

In cosmetics, from manufacturing to finished product, all players in the supply chain can be involved. Today, brands have the power to demonstrate their commitments at several levels: the choice of ingredients, product manufacturing, relations with stakeholders, packaging... The range of certifications offered by Ecocert can meet all these needs. The objective remains the same: to act, together, for a more sustainable world.