Rethinking Cosmetic Packaging: Turning Regulatory Constraints into Drivers of Circular Innovation

Driven by the PPWR (European Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation), Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) schemes, and upcoming environmental labeling frameworks, cosmetic packaging is entering a new era.

These national and European regulations are reshaping the rules of the game: recyclable packaging must become the norm by 2030, post-consumer recycled materials must be progressively integrated, single-use formats must be reduced, and transparency on environmental impact is becoming mandatory.

Packaging manufacturers must now meet recyclability and traceability requirements, beyond aesthetics and functionality. For them, this shift can become a powerful lever for circular innovation. Cosmetic industry players who rethink their materials and processes in line with recognized standards will build tomorrow’s competitive advantage.

Leveraging Certification to Strengthen Commitment

Far more than compliance tools, the labels offered by Ecocert serve as strategic levers to transform business models, accelerate the transition to a circular economy, and significantly reduce the environmental footprint of packaging.

Ecocert has selected impactful labels, recognized for their environmental rigor:

• RecyClass Recyclability evaluates the compatibility of plastic packaging with the entire waste management chain and the ability of the recycled material to be reused in its original application.

• RecyClass Recycled Plastics Traceability, based on EN15343, evaluates the physical traceability of recycled plastic materials across the entire value chain, while verifying the origin of materials in product declarations.

• GRS (Global Recycled Standard) guarantees the traceability of recycled materials and compliance with environmental and social criteria.

• OBP (Ocean Bound Plastic) valorizes plastic waste found near beaches or rivers before it reaches the ocean, by collecting and recycling it according to strict environmental and social standards.

These certifications enable cosmetic packaging manufacturers to embed sustainability into their offerings while enhancing their credibility with brands.

Support from Diagnosis to Market Recognition

To successfully navigate this transition, companies must combine technical expertise, regulatory compliance, and marketing coherence.

Support from a trusted third party like Ecocert is therefore essential. From initial assessment to certification, Ecocert offers a structured approach:

1. Diagnosis of key issues and identification of improvement levers;

2. Selection of relevant standards based on material type and target markets;

3. Training and operational support to implement best practices;

4. Certification and promotion of initiatives to clients and consumers.

Client Testimonial: Lumson, a Leader in Primary Packaging for Skincare and Makeup

A major player in plastic packaging in Europe shares their experience:

“We manufacture cosmetic packaging […] Our main challenge is to comply with the PPWR regulation on packaging and packaging waste. We began working on this several years ago by increasing the percentage of recycled materials. We are already compliant with the 10% requirement to be met by January 2030 [….] We chose Ecocert because they are highly competent.”

Discover the Lumson x Ecocert Group testimonial

Towards Truly Circular Cosmetic Packaging

Regulations set the framework — but it is innovation that will determine success. By providing solutions to highlight your environmental best practices, Ecocert helps turn obligations into drivers of sustainable competitiveness.

Tomorrow’s packaging will be circular, traceable, and responsible — a strategic asset as much as a collective commitment.