Transforming Beauty: Japan's Cosmetic Manufacturers Drive Toward Sustainable Solutions and Plastic Reduction

Cosmetics manufacturers in Japan are ramping up their efforts to reduce plastic usage, responding to growing consumer concerns about plastic waste. Kao Corp., a major household goods maker, initiated a demonstration experiment in February to collect used containers of skincare products like toners and lotions for recycling into bottles. The trial, scheduled to run until the end of July, involves 36 sales outlets, including those operated by Aeon Co. in the Kanto region of eastern Japan. The collected containers, from brands like Twany and other Kao cosmetics, will be converted into materials for producing recycled bottles using Jeplan Inc.'s innovative recycling technology. Kao aims to expand the collection program to more outlets in the future.

Fancl Corp., another cosmetics manufacturer, has also increased the number of stores that collect used containers for recycling. Currently, 61 stores, including those in the Tokyo metropolitan area, accept used containers to be repurposed into planters. Additionally, several companies have been offering refill packs for their low-priced product lines available at drugstores. Now, they are extending this approach to their mid- and high-priced product ranges, which emphasize brand image and product quality.

 

Shiseido Co., for example, has been actively promoting refill packs for its Elixir cosmetics brand. Refilling an Elixir skin toner requires approximately 85% less plastic compared to using a new bottled toner. Shiseido has also introduced refill packs for Elixir products in China and Taiwan. The beauty product industry recognizes the rising consumer demand for both luxurious experiences and eco-friendly options, which is why the release of refillable items has been well-received. Customers appreciate these offerings as they alleviate feelings of guilt associated with discarding containers.

Some companies are even exploring ways to make efficient use of cosmetics products that would typically be discarded due to quality or other issues. Kose Corp., for instance, has partnered with Mangata Co., a Tokyo-based company specializing in producing paints from powdered cosmetic products like eyeshadows. Kose supplies Mangata with samples and other products that would otherwise be thrown away. In April, Kao also joined this initiative, contributing to the sustainable use of cosmetics.

 

As the cosmetics industry in Japan strives to reduce plastic waste and meet consumer demands for eco-friendly solutions, the future of sustainable beauty looks promising. Will other countries and industries follow suit, adopting innovative approaches to minimize environmental impact while still delivering on luxury and quality? Embracing refillable options and repurposing discarded products, the beauty industry in Japan paves the way for a more conscious and beautiful world. How will you contribute to the sustainable beauty revolution?

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