Sustainability Lesson 2 - Recycled Packaging

• Hair & Media Make Up
• Further Education (Key Stage 5)

Sustainability Lesson 2 Packaging & Waste

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An Important topic for Makeup Artists is sustainability in the makeup and cosmetics industry. This industry, like many others, has a big environmental impact. From packaging waste to the sourcing of ingredients, the beauty world can sometimes be less than beautiful for the planet. 

But there's good news! More and more companies and individuals are adopting sustainable practices, from using eco-friendly materials to crafting products with natural, renewable ingredients.

What have you already learned about sustainability in the make up and cosmetics industry

In these lessons, we have already looked at how the beauty industry is evolving to become more sustainable. We have already discussed harmful effects of some cosmetics—such as chemical ingredients. Today we will look at PACKAGING & WASTE 

What happens to the packaging after you finish your makeup products?

Do you think the makeup industry contributes to waste? If so, how?

Have you heard of any makeup brands using sustainable packaging or reducing waste?

Environmental Impact of Packaging and Waste:

• Over 120 billion units of packaging are produced by the global cosmetics industry every year.
• Most makeup packaging is made from non-recyclable materials like plastic, contributing to pollution.
• Makeup waste is also a concern—products often contain ingredients that cannot be recycled or are toxic to the environment.

Sustainable Practices in Makeup

• Refillable Products: Some brands (like Fenty Beauty, Dior) offer refillable packaging for makeup products, reducing the need for new packaging.
• Recyclable and Biodegradable Materials: Eco-friendly packaging made from glass, bamboo, or paperboard.
• Zero-Waste Brands: Some brands are adopting the "zero-waste" model where products are designed to leave no waste behind (e.g., Lush Cosmetics with their “naked” products without packaging).

Examples of Makeup Brands and Sustainability Efforts

• Fenty Beauty: Known for some sustainable packaging efforts, but could still improve.
• Lush: Leading the way with minimal or no packaging, and using natural ingredients.
• Estée Lauder: Should be improving packaging efficiency.
• MAC Cosmetics: Offers a recycling program where customers can return empty containers for discounts.

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IN GROUPS 

• How does the brand approach sustainability in packaging?
• Are they involved in any recycling programs or use sustainable ingredients?
• Do they offer refillable or eco-friendly packaging?
• What waste-reduction strategies does the brand have?

Tell us your Brand and what you have found out.

What can Brands do if anything to encourage consumers to buy more sustainably?