In an age of climate change, how do we care for the environment? When we buy cosmetics, we’re not only putting toxins on our bodies, but also adding to the carbon footprint of the planet. Here’s a quick look at the environmental impact of popular cosmetics. You can learn about Carcinogenic ingredients, Microplastics, and Green cosmetics. Then, get started making a difference today by avoiding harmful ingredients and buying products that are made with sustainable methods.
Microplastics
The question remains: how do microplastics in cosmetics affect the environment? While research is ongoing to find ways to reduce the plastics in our products, we don’t yet have an answer for how microplastics affect the environment. In an analysis published in Nature Communications in 2018, Burns and Boxall found that microplastics are present in more than 50 percent of the cosmetics industry. In Asian cities, the highest concentrations of microplastics were found in coastal sediment. This indicates that marine pollution from microplastics is set to increase linearly with the worldwide production of plastics. Therefore, urgent measures are required to curb this problem.
The PCPC is a multi-disciplinary group of scientists who have been charged with defining the ingredients of cosmetics and identifying the most effective strategy to protect them. The members of the task force are lead by Dr. Iain Davies, Senior Environmental Scientist, and Chief Scientist Alex Kowcz, who each have appropriate technical expertise. In their discussions, the group has focused on the use of microplastics in cosmetics.
Plastic packaging
Although many manufacturers of cosmetics use sustainable packaging methods, not all of these can be recycled. The UK has a system in place to determine the best option for packaging waste. Cosmetic companies must use the smallest possible amount of packaging for their products to avoid contributing to landfills. Some products are shipped in biodegradable or recyclable containers but can end up in landfills. Other packaging methods include composting. In the UK, cosmetics packaging accounts for just 1.5% of the total amount of waste that goes to landfill.
While the UK Government’s new plastic packaging tax is slated to be implemented in April 2022, it is hoped that it will help drive change. With increasing eco-awareness in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, people are more aware of their impact on the environment. Furthermore, more FMCG brands are working towards achieving B Corp status. In the future, consumers can expect cosmetics manufacturers to adopt the same standards when it comes to transparency and impact on social and environmental issues.
Carcinogenic ingredients
The ingredients in cosmetics are responsible for the release of chemicals into the air. People use deodorants and shampoo and lotion that wash off, and when these products are washed away, they are in the air as well. Different chemicals react differently when exposed to the environment. Some degrade into harmless products, but others become dangerous and endanger health. Read the Who’s Minding the Store? report to learn more about the ingredients in cosmetics and their effects on the environment.
While most cosmetic chemicals pose very little risk to humans, some are linked to serious health problems. These chemicals enter the body through the skin, inhalation, and even internal use. These chemicals have the same dangers as chemicals found in food and water. Because cosmetic ingredients are changed often, it is impossible to test for the long-term effects of all chemicals in cosmetics. However, there is a growing concern about the possible health risks from cosmetics.
Green cosmetics
The production of green cosmetics requires commitments on several levels. European countries ensure the safety of their ingredients and ensure their quality. European cosmetics are made by companies with higher standards of training and compliance with legislation. France, for example, has a long history in the cosmetics industry and offers specialised training to its workers. This knowledge is passed down through generations. A natural cosmetic line such as Kokanni Cosmetics uses natural ingredients and does not require harsh chemicals.
The findings from the study can help marketers determine the best strategies for targeting green consumers. It reveals that consumers have a high level of concern for the environment. Their attitude towards green cosmetics is also positively impacted by the perceived quality. When they perceive green cosmetics as superior, they tend to purchase them. However, a higher degree of environmental consciousness leads to higher levels of purchasing intention. However, consumers need to be convinced by the benefits of green products before they will make a purchase decision.
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