A SUSTAINABLE COSMETICS INDUSTRY? YES, IT'S POSSIBLE!

Sustainability is becoming an increasingly decisive factor in the cosmetics industry, influencing consumer behaviour, purchasing choices, and corporate strategies, both in terms of the production chain and the final product.

In 2023, sustainably positioned products accounted for 25% of the total cosmetics market, equivalent to over €3.1 billion (Cosmetica Italia data). Moreover, the Observatory on Sustainability in the Italian Cosmetics Industry, launched in the second half of 2024 by Cosmetica Italia and Bocconi University, highlighted how the cosmetics sector is achieving remarkable results in sustainability optimization across products, packaging, and production processes, offering more advanced solutions compared to industries like fashion or food.

However, the need for further interventions and investments in innovation and new technologies is undeniable. Currently, the cosmetics industry accounts for between 0.5% and 1.5% of global greenhouse gas emissions, according to Quantis, and generates over 120 billion plastic packaging units annually, as reported by Forbes.

The upcoming edition of Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna 2025, scheduled for March 20–23, will undoubtedly serve as a key opportunity to explore the latest solutions the beauty sector is set to introduce to the market. All areas of the industry, from the production chain to the final product, are involved because creating a circular and sustainable cosmetics industry requires strategic collaborations and innovations across all players in the sector.

image A SUSTAINABLE COSMETICS INDUSTRY? YES, IT'S POSSIBLE!

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

The search for new materials and raw ingredients is a key focus. Many solutions now incorporate biodegradable, recycled, or renewable materials for packaging. For example, Arca Etichette’s new collections use microplastics recovered from the oceans, while Brivaplast offers innovative packaging made from waste products. Capardoni Beauty Full Pack emphasizes 100% recyclable mono-material solutions, as does Eurovetrocap, which adheres to the protocols outlined in the white paper prepared by Cosmetica Italia and Aliplast in recent months.

The brands that prioritize natural and vegan formulas include Schwan Cosmetics International, with its innovative eyebrow pencil line, GFL Cosmetics, presenting the Itinera collection for body and hair care, and Kaaral, offering the vegan and cruelty-free certified Maraes collection. Lookx Cosmetics leverages plant-based cells for next-generation skincare products, while LaCabine Group, through its new GSkin brand, reuses fruit, vegetable, and flower extracts sourced from the by-products of other industries. Raw materials derived from sugarcane, cassava, corn, or cotton form the basis of Peggy Sage’s nail polish and nail care collections.

Sustainability also extends to cosmetics for our four-legged friends: White Castle, a brand by La Nordica, has not only eliminated animal testing but has also developed solid cosmetics for pets, using natural ingredients derived from fermentation processes.

RESPONSIBLE PRODUCTION

Innovative and forward-thinking companies are guided by key principles such as low-impact production processes, emission reductions, improved waste management, and compliance with international regulations and certifications.

Even manufacturers of machinery and automated solutions for the production chain are adopting new technologies to enhance energy efficiency. For example, OMSO– Macchine serigrafiche, specializing in screen printing machines for glass and plastic packaging, uses LED technology to lower ozone and CO2 emissions. Similarly, Makro Labelling powers its labeling machines using energy produced by its 192 photovoltaic panels.

Among the finished product innovations set to appear at the next Cosmoprof, Integrée, a B-Corp-certified company, follows sustainable agriculture and farming practices, offering solutions that reduce emissions and minimize resource waste.

Throughout its history, L’Erbolario has achieved significant certifications. It selects renewable materials for its packaging, such as sugarcane-derived plastics and recycled PET from water bottles. All paper materials are FSC®-certified to promote responsible forest resource management. Additionally, since 2002, the company has adhered to the UNI EN ISO 14001 environmental management system and exclusively uses renewable energy, much of it self-produced through its solar power plant.

3 Claveles – Buenos Hermanos, a Spanish producer of professional scissors for hairdressers, has transformed its production facility by installing a photovoltaic system and a cutting-edge energy management infrastructure.

CONSUMER EDUCATION AND SOCIAL IMPACT

Sustainability also involves educating consumers on best practices, raising awareness through initiatives supporting vulnerable communities, and fostering circular economy projects.

Zignago Vetro has launched an initiative to engage customers and stakeholders in improving and expanding the glass recycling supply chain. The company collaborates with a network of distributors to collect glass waste (empty, broken, or damaged containers that would otherwise be discarded), which is then transported and processed at Zignago Vetro’s treatment centers.

Many brands aim to raise consumer awareness about the environmental impact of their beauty routines through their collections. Byphasse has introduced a range of eco-refillable 1-liter body washes and cleansers. Benecos and GRN, a brand under Cosmondial, has unveiled a fully refillable and customizable makeup palette. The First has responded to the growing demand for sustainable fragrance solutions. Its Arrogance brand, known for textured plastic cases, now features recyclable glass bottles, encouraging more environmentally conscious consumer choices.

At Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna 2025, numerous companies will showcase their corporate social responsibility projects. The Somerset Toiletry collaborates with the social enterprise BillyChip and renowned graffiti artist Inkie to create a special limited edition of the "Soap of Hope", with all proceeds benefiting the BillyChip Foundation, which supports people in need across the UK.

BEAUHEIT, a holistic brand based in Denmark, stands out for its social responsibility initiatives, employing individuals with physical and mental disabilities and collaborating with local associations and authorities.

Many more sustainable initiatives and innovations will be unveiled at the next Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna. Discover how you can contribute to a cosmetics industry that respects the planet and minimizes its environmental impact: visit Cosmoprof Worldwide Bologna 2025!

BROWSE THE DIGITAL DIRECTORY

2025 EDITION

BOLOGNA, ITALY

FAIR DISTRICT

MARCH 20-22, 2025

MARCH 20-23, 2025

A SUSTAINABLE COSMETICS INDUSTRY? YES, IT'S POSSIBLE!

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

RESPONSIBLE PRODUCTION

CONSUMER EDUCATION AND SOCIAL IMPACT

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A SUSTAINABLE COSMETICS INDUSTRY? YES, IT'S POSSIBLE!

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

RESPONSIBLE PRODUCTION

CONSUMER EDUCATION AND SOCIAL IMPACT

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