Plastics and Microplastic in the Cosmetic Industry: Aggregating Sustainable Actions Aimed at Alignment and Interaction with UN Sustainable Development Goals

Abstract

Excessive use of petroleum derivatives in cosmetics, whether in compositions or packaging, predominating the use of plastics, parabens, microplastics and other polymers, has had negative environmental impacts. The cosmetics market has gained prominence in recent years and bioeconomy and circular economy policies are putting pressure on the market to use bio-based and biodegradable materials. In this context, the objective of this review article is to provide an overview of how the aggregation of sustainable actions in the cosmetic industry contributes to the fulfillment of the 2030 Agenda and how this can serve as a guide in building a more resilient and sustainable society. For that, the generation of residues during the production processes was examined and the environmental problems generated by the cosmetic industry were addressed. Then, the role of aggregating sustainable actions and innovations with regard to the achievement of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the cosmetic industry were evaluated.

Physico-chemical challenges on the self-assembly of natural and bio-based ingredients on hair surfaces: towards sustainable haircare formulations

“…24,25 Therefore, it can be considered that modern cosmetic industry in its seeking of more sustainable and environmental friendly products tries to accommodate its products and processes to the SDGs. 27…”

“…24,25 Therefore, it can be considered that modern cosmetic industry in its seeking of more sustainable and environmental friendly products tries to accommodate its products and processes to the SDGs. 27 It is worth noting that sustainability is usually used as a synonym of green, organic or natural. However, it is not always true.…”

“…23,24 The alignment of cosmetics industry with UN sustainable development goals (SDGs) requires a comprehensive approach that includes all stages of the product life cycle, including the ingredients used, and follows the principles of green chemistry. [24][25][26][27] The relationships between the main development lines of cosmetics industry and the SDGs is summarized in Fig. 2.…”

Innovative technologies for removal of micro plastic: A review of recent advances

“…However, some investigations have classified MPs as particles measuring less than 1 mm, 2 mm, 2–6 mm, and 10 mm [ 6 ]. All over the world, MPs were discovered in freshwater bodies, the arctic ice, beaches, subtidal and deep-sea sediment, and the water column [ 7 , 8 ]. MPs infiltrate water systems by a variety of routes, including overland flow, wind convection, and WWTP discharge.…”

Development of films based on chitosan, gelatin and collagen extracted from bocachico scales (Prochilodus magdalenae)

“…In this context, biodegradable biopolymers derived from animal kingdom, species or their residues offer a promising avenue for developing environmentally friendly materials. Their abundance and biocompatibility make them sustainable alternatives that align with the SDGs' objectives, particularly those related to responsible consumption and production, biodiversity conservation, and mitigating climate change [ 4 ]. By embracing these biopolymers within legal frameworks, it is possible to actively contribute to achieving the sustainable future envisioned by the United Nations and pave the way for a greener and more resilient planet.…”