Why Can’t Some Beauty Packagings Be Recycled?
According to a report by Euromonitor International, the global beauty and personal care industry generated approximately 142 billion units of packaging waste in 2019. This includes various types of packaging, such as bottles, jars, tubes, compacts, and boxes. The report also estimated that this figure could increase to 162 billion units by 2023, reflecting the continued growth of the industry. However, it is well-known that recycling rates for beauty packaging are generally lower compared to other types of packaging. This is primarily due to the complex composition and design of many beauty products, which often feature mixed materials, small size, and intricate components. These factors make it challenging to effectively separate and recycle these items.
As a beauty packaging supplier with deep knowledge of the industry, Source Tank has summarized below all you need to know about beauty packaging recycling, including why it is challenging and how it can be improved.
Why is beauty packaging recycling challenging?
Material Composition
One primary reason why certain beauty packagings are not recyclable is their complex composition. Many beauty packaging components, such as lipstick casings, mascara tubes, or perfume caps, consist of mixed materials. These combinations often include plastics, metals, or other materials that make it difficult to separate and recycle effectively. Additionally, specific beauty products require specialized materials for functionality or preservation, further complicating the recycling process.
Small Size and Complex Designs
Beauty products are commonly packaged in small, intricate containers, which present challenges at recycling facilities. Items like sample-sized containers, lip balm tubes, or eyeshadow palettes incorporate intricate designs with non-recyclable elements like mirrors or magnets. These complexities increase the difficulty of sorting and separating materials in recycling centers, resulting in lower recycling rates for such items
Labels and Adhesives
The presence of labels and adhesives on beauty packaging also hinders recycling efforts. Labels often have glossy or metallic finishes that are hard to remove during the recycling process. Adhesives used for affixing labels can contaminate recyclable materials or cause issues in recycling facilities. Consequently, even if the primary material is recyclable, the presence of labels and adhesives can render the entire packaging unrecyclable.
Lack of Clear Packaging Recycling Instructions
While the beauty industry has made progress in adopting sustainable practices, there remains a lack of standardized and clear recycling instructions on many packaging items. This confusion can lead consumers to dispose of recyclable packaging in the regular waste stream unintentionally. The absence of explicit instructions contributes to the environmental challenges associated with beauty packaging waste.
Solutions and Future Perspectives of Beauty Packaging Recycling
Material Innovation
The introduction of sugarcane tube packaging marks a positive step towards a more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach to packaging in the beauty industry. With a composition derived from plant-based materials, sugarcane tubes not only help reduce reliance on fossil fuels and minimize the carbon footprint associated with packaging production, but they are also 100% recyclable. Furthermore, thanks to their simple structure, there is no need to disassemble any part before disposing of them.
Simplified Designs
Branding can play a crucial role in promoting recyclability by prioritizing the design of packaging with recyclability in mind. By streamlining the packaging design not only facilitates the recycling process but also increases the likelihood of successful recycling. By taking this proactive approach, brands can contribute to a more sustainable future by minimizing waste and maximizing the potential for packaging materials to be recycled. Talk to us today to find out what your options are.
Label and Adhesive Improvements
With current technology, labels can be made from environmentally conscious materials, such as recycled paper or biodegradable materials. Additionally, there are options for labels that utilize heating dissolved label and are backed with eco-friendly glue. These labels are not only visually appealing but also serve as a testament to your commitment to sustainability and contribute to a more environmentally conscious approach to packaging and branding.
Consumer Education
As a beauty products supplier, we understand the importance of providing clear and standardized recycling symbols and instructions to guide consumers on the correct disposal of beauty packaging. It is our responsibility to educate our consumers about proper recycling practices. By including easily recognizable recycling symbols and concise instructions on our packaging, we aim to empower our customers to contribute to a more sustainable future. Through education and awareness, we can work together to ensure that beauty packaging is disposed of correctly and efficiently recycled, minimizing its impact on the environment.
