In recent years, sustainability concerns have gained increasing prominence across various industries, and the cosmetics industry is no exception. The beauty sector presents a unique set of sustainability challenges, spanning from the intensive use of chemicals in product formulations to the substantial waste generated from packaging materials. These issues, among others, have underscored the growing need for a critical examination and the development of innovative solutions to enhance the environmental responsibility of the cosmetics industry. In this context, it is imperative to delve deeper into the diverse spectrum of sustainability issues intrinsic to this sector, exploring not only its environmental impacts but also the ongoing efforts aimed at addressing them.
The cosmetics industry encompasses the production, marketing, and sale of various beauty and personal care products, including skincare items, makeup, hair care products, fragrances, toiletries, and other cosmetic preparations. It’s important to note that the cosmetics industry can have several negative environmental impacts. For instance, cosmetics production often requires significant water usage, which can strain local water resources. Many cosmetics contain harmful chemicals that can pollute the air and water when released into the environment. Disposing of unused or expired cosmetics can also be problematic, as they may end up in landfills or the ocean, harming wildlife and ecosystems. Additionally, many cosmetics are packaged in single-use containers, which can contribute to plastic pollution. Moreover, many cosmetic ingredients are derived from fossil fuels, which contribute to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
Recent scientific research has been actively addressing the issue of sustainability within the cosmetics industry. This research encompasses multiple aspects, including the sustainable extraction of raw materials, the development of green solvents, sustainable synthesis methods, the creation of ingredients from renewable resources, and other innovative approaches. By exploring these facets, scientists aim to improve the industry’s environmental performance, minimize resource depletion, reduce waste generation, and decrease the ecological footprint associated with cosmetic production.
For example, Polesso et al. (2022) successfully utilized waste from second-generation ethanol production (i.e., Eucalyptus globulus and bracts of A. angustifolia) to generate sustainable enzymatic cosmetic ingredients for the treatment of skin hyperpigmentation. The resulting enzymatic crude broth extract was used to degrade melanin, and the results demonstrated its effectiveness in breaking down melanin, highlighting its potential for cosmetic applications.
Tzani et al. (2023) provides another example of a scientific endeavor aimed at promoting sustainability in cosmetics manufacturing. This study introduced a more environmentally friendly method for extracting bioactive compounds from Greek propolis, a highly valued natural material widely used in the cosmetics industry to manufacture beneficial extracts. The extraction was accomplished by employing ultrasound-assisted extraction with Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES), a type of solvent derived from readily available and inexpensive natural ingredients like sugars, amino acids, and organic acids. This choice of solvent is preferable over synthetic solvents due to its biodegradability, lower toxicity and volatility, high solvency capacity, and cost-effectiveness. The study demonstrated that this approach yielded extracts with higher amounts of naringenin and apigenin, two vital bioactive flavonoids, compared to the conventional extraction method.
In tandem with ongoing research and technological advances in the sustainability of the cosmetics industry, responsible consumer behaviors play a pivotal role in shaping the cosmetics industry’s sustainability landscape. As consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental and social impacts associated with cosmetic products, their choices and actions have the power to drive positive change.
Bom et al. (2019) suggests that consumers can make informed choices about sustainable cosmetics by considering certifications like the COSMOS standard, which ensures the use of organic and natural ingredients and environmentally friendly practices in product manufacturing. Additionally, consumers can seek out products that prioritize sustainable packaging materials, such as biodegradable or recyclable options. Organizations and academics play a crucial role in fostering consumer awareness and promoting sustainability within the cosmetics industry. They contribute significantly to educating consumers about the importance of sustainability and empowering them to make informed choices. This includes conducting research on sustainable practices and ingredients, developing standards and certifications, advocating for sustainable policies, and actively engaging with consumers to highlight the benefits of using sustainable products.
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References:
Bom, Sara, Joaquín Jorge, Heidi Michalski Ribeiro and J. Marto. “A step forward on sustainability in the cosmetics industry: A review.” Journal of Cleaner Production. 2019: N. PAG.
Polesso, C. B., Fontana, R. C., Costa, C., Fernandes, B., Matamá, T., Cavaco-Paulo, A. M., Rencoret, J., Gutiérrez, A., Schneider, W. D. H., & Camassola, M.. Transforming second-generation ethanol production waste into sustainable enzymatic cosmetic inputs. Industrial Crops & Products. 2022: 188, N.PAG. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.indcrop.2022.115658
Tzani A, Pitterou I, Divani F, Tsiaka T, Sotiroudis G, Zoumpoulakis P, Detsi A. Green Extraction of Greek Propolis Using Natural Deep Eutectic Solvents (NADES) and Incorporation of the NADES-Extracts in Cosmetic Formulation. Sustainable Chemistry. 2023; 4(1): 8-25. https://doi.org/10.3390/suschem4010002
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