For many, sustainability and cosmetics are disconnected. The perception of the two not sitting well together is no surprise given the cosmetic industry’s earliest unethical business practices.

It was a long time ago, however, that the cosmetic and personal care sector stopped seeing sustainability as a trendy corporate buzzword, or optional for that matter. Today, the industry realises a level of sustainability is mandatory, and the success of a company partly depends on how embedded it is in its culture.

Brand owners, suppliers and manufacturers are increasingly feeling the pressure to be innovative with a sustainable approach, and in many cases they’re using it as a strategic differentiator in today’s competitive market. Unfortunately, many brand owners entering the industry have the misconception that sustainable products are about choosing recyclable packaging, produce with natural ingredients or branding their product with a ‘natural’ look.

But sustainability is so much more than that. It encompasses manufacturing practices, supply chain (for all ingredients) and product distribution. It also includes the careful selection of label printing and even regulatory checks on packaging.

When brands insist not only on exceptional quality but also transparent, sustainable production, they demand manufacturers to demonstrate sustainable business practices, and in turn, these manufacturers extend the pressure to their own suppliers – demanding responsible strategies to be in place in order to earn their business. With the supply chain naturally following suit, this movement toward greener practices isn’t just good news for the environment, it offers a number of commercial benefits for those involved.

What’s in it for me?

Going ‘green’ offers a raft of benefits.

Consumers are demanding more from their products – they’re considering their own wellbeing as well as choosing products with a lower impact on the environment. Consumers are also becoming more educated about sustainable practices and ingredients, learning more about side effects caused by chemical-infused products.

Sustainable practices not only offer benefits for the consumer and the environment, but they often lead to more cost-efficient processes, increased sales and new loyal consumers. Another benefit is engaged and passionate employees. And we’re not just talking millennials – employees of all ages and cultural backgrounds care about their employer’s values, and they want to know that the company they work for cares about its environmental impact. It’s important for people to know that as individuals, and as part of a team, they can contribute to a better world.

Things to consider

 Aside from selecting recyclable packaging, a greener ingredients list and choosing a natural look for your product, there are a few other things you can do to make a difference:

1. Select the right suppliers: Make sure your supplier has an ISO 140001 accreditation, which demonstrate their company’s environmental commitment to reduce energy use and waste.
2. Plan for production: It’s common to have multiple product lines, with a range of products in each. Without careful production planning you could end up with significant product loss during a change over, which will also increase the use of water for flush-outs. Careful planning will lower the amount of waste, reduce water usage and lower your product’s carbon footprint.
3. Consider packaging: Consider a biodegradable unit box and label, returnable packaging and fewer materials. And take extra care to ensure you’re getting the right information from the get-go – always consult a regulatory advisor and make sure your claims are suitable for the markets you’re aiming at. Failing to do so, can mean having to dump printed packaging, which increases the cost of your product, and more importantly, causes environmental damage.
4. Work closely with your manufacturer and distributor: Be involve and communicate often to ensure your products are stored and managed appropriately to reduce the risk of damage. Stay on top of stock and strategically plan promotions for slow moving products.
5. Know where your products come from: Natural ingredients are a big part of sustainability, of course, but there’s another (much more important) aspect: the origin of the ingredients. If your manufacturer is responsible for sourcing ingredients, work with them to ensure your ingredients come from RSPO suppliers and always ask for certifications if you claim your product is organic, sustainable or natural.

Ethically and environmentally sustainable practices are changing the way we do things in the cosmetic industry (for the better!). Those who embrace this change will find a more satisfying way of doing business by challenging the status quo, and ultimately leaving a legacy. Beautiful Solutions is on board with sustainable practices and can support you to be a strategic differentiator by creating products that are in harmony with your consumer’s believes and contribute positively to the environment.

Check out our values here, or give us a call on +64 (0)7 544 6393 to find out more.