Decarbonization in the Beauty Industry

Subject: The reduction of emissions by at least 55% will become a legal obligation of the EU by 2030.

Background

Between 2020 and 2030, with a market of $784 billion and an annual production of 120 billion packages, reducing the carbon footprint is crucial to avoid climate chaos.

Therefore, the EU aims for companies to use at least 40% renewable energy by 2030 due to the environmental damage caused by industries. The cosmetics industry emits 990 million tons of CO2 annually, equivalent to 0.5% of the total.

Despite representing a relatively small fraction of global emissions, their manufacturing, supply, and transportation processes generate a considerable amount of carbon. The complexity of supply chains, consumer expectations for sustainable products, and the additional costs associated with sustainable practices are key points.

Definition

In its simplest form, the concept of carbon neutrality aims to ensure that the amount of carbon dioxide produced is equal to or less than the amount that’s being captured from the environment. 

Beauty Industry

In the beauty industry, decarbonising means moving towards products and business models that emit as little CO2 as possible. In the first place by reducing emissions at the source (consuming less material and energy).

So, how exactly does a brand achieve carbon neutrality? 

First, it must assess its carbon footprint. Carbon emissions must be calculated across the supply chain before companies can determine plans for neutralizing them — for example, by using biodegradable packaging and non-toxic ingredients.

Companies can then use the money obtained from carbon credits to fund various carbon-offset programs, including:

1- Transition to Renewable Energies:

Switching to energy sources like solar, wind, or hydroelectric to reduce emissions during the manufacturing of cosmetics and personal care products.

2- Improving Packaging Efficiency:

Using more sustainable and recyclable packaging materials to reduce waste and emissions associated with packaging.

3- Use of Sustainable Ingredients:

Utilization of ingredients sourced from sustainable sources to limit deforestation and support biodiversity conservation.

4- Investment in Research and Development (R&D):

Supporting research and development to create more sustainable formulations and manufacturing processes with low carbon emissions.

5- Transparency through Sustainability Reports

UKPACK Packaging

At present, UKPACK lauched many sustainable packaging, like mono-material lotion pump, mono-material airless bottle, all-plastic foam pump, PCR packaging, Refillable packaging, Bio-degradable packaging… However, these are only the first step,  we still are eexploring  more greener,recyclable and bio degradeable packaging. If you have any good idea, welcome to discuss further!