Industry Spotlight

Cosmetics

The cosmetics industry is making strides towards sustainability, with more and more companies embracing responsible production methods and ethical sourcing practices. Sustainable beauty refers to creating products that have minimal impact on the environment, are made from natural ingredients, do not require animal cruelty in production and are safe for people to use. With this directory we aim to provide an overview of the products, companies and standards involved in sustainable beauty. To dig in in more detail, search this category within CommonShare. ## ## 2. Benefits of Sustainability in the Cosmetics Industry ### A. Environmental Benefits - Reduced chemical pollution: A leading benefit of sustainable beauty is the reduction in the amount of chemicals released into the environment by eliminating synthetic fragrances, harmful preservatives and dyes used in conventional cosmetics. Sustainable beauty brands also focus on using ethical sourcing practices and high-quality ingredients that have been certified organic or biodynamically grown without the use of pesticides or herbicides. - Reduced packaging waste: Another major benefit of sustainable beauty is a reduction in packaging waste which can be damaging to the environment when it ends up in landfills, oceans and waterways. Sustainable beauty companies focus on creating minimalistic packaging where possible, often using recyclable materials such as glass jars, cardboard boxes and paper labels instead of plastic containers which can take centuries to decompose. These companies often offer refill options for their products so consumers don’t have to buy new packaging every time they need refills, further reducing their overall waste output. ### B. Social Benefits Sustainable beauty has numerous social benefits for both individuals and society. - Improved physical health: By using sustainable beauty products, individuals can protect themselves from the potentially dangerous chemicals found in conventional cosmetics, because they are generally created without harsh chemicals like parabens, phthalates, sulfates, and fragrance which have been linked to increased risk for reproductive issues, hormone disruption, allergies, asthma, endocrine disruption, infertility and cancer. - Animal welfare: Sustainable beauty practices are also beneficial for animal welfare since many organic makeup brands refuse animal testing when formulating their products thus showing respect for animal life worldwide. - Promotion of fair labor standards: Sustainable beauty products are often made with ingredients sourced from fair trade practices and/or organic farming methods. By supporting these types of operations, workers are given a fair wage for their labor and are provided with safe working conditions. In addition to supporting communities and small businesses, by providing them with a valuable source of income that can help reduce poverty levels. ### C. Economic Benefits - Sustainable beauty products are often more cost-effective in the long run, as they do not require frequent replacement. This economic benefit can sometimes benefit the consumer more than the producer. - Sustainable beauty companies can help reduce costs associated with waste management and disposal. - Sustainable standards can lead to increased efficiency and productivity, resulting in lower operational costs for businesses. - Sustainable practices can also lead to better brand recognition and customer loyalty, which can result in higher sales revenues. ## 3. Producing Sustainable Cosmetics ### A. Materials & Inputs Sustainable beauty manufacturers must be aware of the supply chain that supports their product – making sure each ingredient is sourced sustainably and fairly throughout all stages of production. - Organic and natural ingredients: recycled materials, and Fair Trade-certified supplies. Sustainable beauty products typically contain plant-based oils, butters, waxes, and extracts. Avoid animal testing which means choosing materials that are not derived from animals. - Eco-friendly packaging – Sustainable beauty products may also include environmental packaging such as glass bottles or biodegradable containers made from renewable resources like sugar cane or corn starch. - Conscious formulations – meaning they exclude harsh chemicals or synthetics that may cause harm to people or the environment. Emphasize the use of fair trade practices with farmers who cultivate natural raw materials responsibly and ethically. - Reduce waste in production processes, such as using renewable energy sources for manufacturing equipment and reducing water usage during product development. ### B. Innovative Technologies To create sustainable beauty products, a variety of technologies are being used to reduce the environmental impact while still creating high-quality cosmetics, such as: - Bio-plastics: Bio-plastics are made from natural renewable materials instead of petroleum-based plastics, thus allowing them to be biodegradable and compostable. In addition to being eco-friendly, these materials have a much lower carbon footprint than traditional plastics because they do not require any additional energy inputs for production. - Lab-grown ingredients: Lab-grown ingredients are gaining traction in the beauty industry due to their potential to drastically cut down on resources used in conventional ingredient sourcing. By replicating the production process of plant extracts with artificial components, cosmetic companies can now produce their own versions of natural extracts without having to harvest plants or animals in large quantities. This not only eliminates animal cruelty but also reduces the use of herbicides and fertilizers which can pollute waterways and soils when overused in agricultural production. - Waterless ingredients: Waterless ingredients allow brands to eliminate water from their formulations and reduce waste associated with water disposal while still offering quality performance. Waterless products contain mainly active ingredients that provide hydration or skin conditioning benefits instead of relying on fillers like water or alcohols that can disrupt sensitive skin areas if used too frequently. - Post-consumer recycled materials (PCR): Beauty Brands are now utilizing PCR plastics from items such as detergent bottles or food containers to reduce waste while creating something new and beneficial out of something that may have otherwise ended up in landfills or incinerators. Sustainable beauty brands like Kjaer Weis have embraced this trend and are committed to using PCR plastic packaging whenever possible. ## 4. Leading Sustainable Cosmetics Brands - REN - Aveda - Lush - Herbivore - Giorgio Armani - L’Occitane - Clarins - Origins - Weleda - Axiology Natural Organic Lipstick - The Body Shop ## 5. Sustainable Cosmetics Standards - Fairtrade international - Cosmos - Soil Association - ACO Certification - Fair Trade USA - Natrue - ICEA - The Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics

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6,527 Companies

Claimed Company
Arnia - Societa' Cooperativa Sociale Made In Italy

🇮🇹Italy

ARNIA - SOCIETA' COOPERATIVA SOCIALE MADE IN ITALY is a prominent company based in Italy, specializing in social cooperative services. With a strong focus on community welfare and social impact, ARNIA aims to provide essential support and services to individuals in need. The company is known for its dedication to promoting social inclusion and enhancing the quality of life for vulnerable populations in Italy.

ARNIA offers a wide range of social services, including assistance for the elderly, support for individuals with disabilities, and community outreach programs. Their commitment to fostering a more inclusive society sets them apart in the social cooperative sector. By offering personalized care and tailored solutions, ARNIA strives to make a meaningful difference in the lives of those they serve.

The company's mission is to create a more compassionate and supportive society where everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive. Through their innovative programs and collaborative approach, ARNIA is able to address the unique challenges faced by marginalized communities. Their services not only meet the immediate needs of their clients but also empower them to lead more fulfilling and independent lives.

ARNIA's dedication to social responsibility and community engagement makes them a trusted partner for individuals, families, and organizations seeking compassionate and effective support services. Their commitment to excellence and integrity ensures that they deliver high-quality care and assistance to those who need it most. ARNIA - SOCIETA' COOPERATIVA SOCIALE MADE IN ITALY is truly a beacon of hope and support in the Italian social cooperative landscape.

Claimed Company
GSL

🇲🇽Mexico

History
GSL is a leading company in the production of premium denim fabrics with an established history of more than 150 years of textile heritage and craftsmanship tradition.

The company’s beginnings date from 1846 when the company was first founded in Spain, and then expanded its operations to the Western Hemisphere, finding in Mexico its new home. GSL is owned by Grupo Siete Leguas, a renowned Mexican group that produces jeans to the most select brands and retailers in the US Market.

Mission
To offer denim products of the highest quality and innovation, which allows us to increase our participation in the market, quickly adapting to changes in fashion, training and empowering our employees, constantly renewing our technology, and effectively managing our quality systems.

Vision
To be recognized in America’s denim market, as leaders in innovation and quality, always seeking profitability for our shareholders, respecting the environment and the community where we operate.

Quality efforts
Our highest priority is to produce quality products and added value solutions for our customers. We’ve built a robust business model capable of offering a wide array of products to our customers with the peace of mind that these are produced responsibly and with the highest standards, minimizing its environmental impact and improving the life of our employees, their families, and our community. We understand the key role of technology in our operation and focus our research efforts to find the newest equipment and to empower our associates to incorporate best in class industry practices to exceed our customer’s expectations.

Sustainability
Our sustainability efforts start by producing quality products that can hold their value over time, products that are durable and provide ever lasting value for our customers. We aim to do this in the most responsible way, pioneering sustainable manufacturing processes and using the cleanest and safest raw materials and supplies in our processes.

When it comes to sustainability, the conversation gravitates not only about what can be said about a determined process, but on what can be measured and certified. GSL is a proud member of the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), Cotton LEADS, licensee of Cotton USA and the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol. 10% of the cotton content that is used on our fabrics is reclaimed from our internal process. 70% of our factory is powered by wind. 100% of the indigo that is used in our process is Bluesign® certified liquid indigo, which is the cleanest and most sustainable indigo available in the market, which significantly reduces the amount of chemicals used in the manufacturing process, and at our wastewater facilities.

GSL has also invested on advanced finishing technology (Eco-Finish) that allows our finishing process to save 85% of the water used in this process, compared to conventional textile finishing process. Regarding product, we have developed the technology that allows for our fabrics to be more sensitive to be processed with laser (LSD Fabrics).

These products can achieve higher levels of contrast and allows indigo to be removed from the fabric using less energy. In addition, one of the most important contributions of this technology is the elimination of harsh chemicals from the wet processing, such as potassium permanganate, resulting in a cleaner process and a healthier work environment.

Claimed Company
Tandhan Cotton Mills

🇮🇳India

Tandhan Cotton Mills Private Limited is a renowned company based in India, specializing in dyeing, finishing, weaving, and processing of fabrics. With a focus on quality and innovation, they offer a range of products including dyed fabrics, denim fabrics, and organic cotton. Their services cater to a diverse clientele in the textile industry, providing certified products that meet the highest standards.

The company's mission is to deliver sustainable and eco-friendly textile solutions to their customers, ensuring that their products are not only of premium quality but also environmentally conscious. Tandhan Cotton Mills Private Limited is known for their expertise in fabric production, with a strong emphasis on using organic materials and ethical practices in their manufacturing processes.

Their commitment to excellence and customer satisfaction sets them apart in the industry, as they continuously strive to meet the needs of their clients while upholding the values of integrity and transparency. Tandhan Cotton Mills Private Limited's offerings are designed to address the growing demand for sustainable textiles, providing a solution for businesses and individuals looking for environmentally friendly fabric options.

Overall, Tandhan Cotton Mills Private Limited stands out as a leading player in the textile sector, offering a wide range of certified fabric products that not only meet industry standards but also contribute to a more sustainable future. Their dedication to quality, innovation, and environmental responsibility positions them as a trusted partner for businesses and consumers alike.

Claimed Company
Georgios Ioakimidis -Textiles

🇬🇷Greece

GEORGIOS IOAKIMIDIS SA-TEXTILES is a prominent company based in Greece specializing in textile manufacturing. With a strong focus on quality and innovation, the company is known for providing a wide range of textile products to both domestic and international markets. Their product line includes fabrics for apparel, home textiles, and industrial applications, showcasing their expertise in meeting diverse customer needs.

The company's mission is to deliver premium quality textiles that meet the highest industry standards while staying at the forefront of textile innovation. GEORGIOS IOAKIMIDIS SA-TEXTILES prides itself on its commitment to sustainability and ethical practices in the textile industry, ensuring that their products are not only of superior quality but also environmentally friendly.

One of the key strengths of GEORGIOS IOAKIMIDIS SA-TEXTILES lies in their ability to provide customized textile solutions to their clients, catering to specific requirements and preferences. Whether it's designing unique fabric patterns or developing specialized textile blends, the company excels in delivering tailored solutions that meet the needs of their target audience.

Through their diverse range of textile products, GEORGIOS IOAKIMIDIS SA-TEXTILES aims to offer solutions that enhance the functionality and aesthetics of various end products. From fashion designers seeking high-quality fabrics to industrial manufacturers in need of durable materials, the company's offerings are designed to address specific challenges and add value to their customers' businesses.

Claimed Company
Afroze Textile Industries

🇵🇰Pakistan

Afroze Textile Industries is a leading company based in PK specializing in textile manufacturing. With a strong focus on quality and innovation, Afroze Textile Industries is known for providing a wide range of textile products to both local and international markets. Their product line includes fabrics, garments, and home textiles, all crafted with precision and attention to detail.

The company's mission is to be a trusted provider of high-quality textile products that meet the diverse needs of their customers. Afroze Textile Industries prides itself on its state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities and skilled workforce, ensuring that every product meets the highest standards of excellence.

One of the key strengths of Afroze Textile Industries is its ability to offer customized solutions to clients, catering to specific requirements and preferences. Whether it's designing unique fabric patterns or producing tailored garments, the company excels in delivering personalized services that set them apart in the industry.

Afroze Textile Industries' products are designed to not only meet market demands but also to exceed customer expectations. By offering a wide range of textile solutions, the company aims to provide comfort, style, and durability to individuals and businesses alike. Their commitment to quality and customer satisfaction drives their vision of becoming a global leader in the textile industry.

Claimed Company
Teejay India

🇮🇳India

Teejay India Limited is a prominent player in the textile manufacturing industry, recognized for its specialization in knitwear production. Established with a strong foothold in the Indian market, Teejay India has expanded its presence globally, catering to leading brands and retailers worldwide.

The company excels in the manufacturing of knitted fabrics and garments, leveraging state-of-the-art technology and innovative processes to ensure high quality and efficiency. Teejay India's product range includes a variety of knitwear such as t-shirts, polos, sweatshirts, and more, tailored to meet the diverse needs of its global clientele.

In addition to its manufacturing capabilities, Teejay India emphasizes sustainability and ethical practices in its operations. The company adheres to stringent environmental standards and invests in sustainable practices throughout its supply chain, aiming to minimize its ecological footprint.

Teejay India's commitment to excellence extends beyond production; it fosters a culture of continuous improvement and customer satisfaction. Through robust quality control measures and a dedicated workforce, Teejay India maintains its reputation as a reliable partner for brands seeking high-quality knitwear solutions.

Overall, Teejay India Limited stands out for its strong manufacturing expertise, global reach, commitment to sustainability, and dedication to delivering superior knitwear products to its diverse customer base worldwide.

Claimed Company
INDUSTRIAS FATELARES SAS

🇨🇴Colombia

We are one of the main producers of towels in Colombia and the first producer of hammocks for export. We offer a wide portfolio of home clothing that includes: bedspreads, pillows, bathrobes, bedding sets, blankets, tablecloths, among others. With 80 years of permanence in the national market and presence in the international market, we have extensive experience in the manufacture of textile products for the home and institutional use, mainly towels made from a variety of textile fibers, with cotton as the main input.
We attend major fashion events around the world to offer our clients the latest trends in home furnishings. A perfect mix between design and quality.

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