Cosmetic recycling within the beauty industry is gaining more and more traction as brands strive to reduce excessive waste and mitigate environmental impact. As consumers become increasingly eco-conscious, the demand for sustainable solutions has never been greater and this collective effort is a huge step in the right direction when it comes to sustainable alternatives. This being said, it’s clear that more brands need to think about their sustainable packaging options in order to make the impact our planet needs.
As a leading wet wipe and filled sachet manufacturer, at Guardpack, we are invested in this green transformation. Here, we discuss the promising developments within the health and beauty sector, considerations for suppliers and how we continue to support this.
The Growing Need for Cosmetic Recycling
Every year, the beauty industry generates millions of tons of plastic waste. In fact, the British Beauty Council reports that only 14% of packaging actually makes it to a recycling plant and the rest heads directly to landfill. From shampoo bottles to lipstick tubes and single-use plastic vessels, the majority of these items end up in landfill or our oceans. Many cosmetic packaging materials, including mixed plastics and multi-layered films, are difficult to recycle using traditional methods. With sustainability at the forefront of global concerns, cosmetic recycling is no longer an option, it’s a necessity.
In 2025, consumers are now more aware of their purchasing decisions and how they affect the environment. The growing zero-waste movement and increasing government regulations surrounding plastic waste are further pushing brands to adopt eco-friendly alternatives. This has led to a surge in initiatives aimed at reducing waste and promoting circularity in the beauty industry.
Brands Leading the Charge
Companies such as L’Oréal, Estée Lauder, and Unilever are investing in refillable packaging, sustainable materials, and take-back schemes to help customers responsibly dispose of, or reuse used products and significantly reduce waste. Large health, beauty and cosmetic providers, such as Boots, provide specialised recycling programs, allowing customers to return empty containers that would otherwise be considered non-recyclable, whilst eco-focused brands like Lush have also been offering incentives for customers to return empty packaging in exchange for product discounts.
A Word on Cosmetic Samples
It’s no secret that cosmetic samples have been highlighted as a major source of single-use packaging, given their small size and mostly non-recyclable nature. At Guardpack, we recognise the challenge posed by sample packaging and have been ahead of the curve by successfully exploring sustainable alternatives.
We offer suppliers and brands fully recyclable laminate sachet packaging, ensuring we deliver products that are sustainable, safe and stable for use. Alongside our recyclable wipe fabrics, this allows us to achieve our commitment to environmental sustainability by producing products to the highest of standards that have minimal impact on our planet. These products are a major breakthrough for our industry, and we hope other manufacturers will follow suit.
Recyclable Packaging and Reducing Waste
Sustainable packaging is transforming the beauty industry, with a strong emphasis on recyclable and recycled materials. While fully biodegradable packaging is not yet viable for liquid or wet tissue sachets due to its potential to break down prematurely, advancements in recyclable packaging continue to offer environmentally friendly alternatives.
With the focus shifting towards responsible consumption, recyclable sachets provide a ‘try before you buy’ approach, reducing waste by allowing consumers to test products in smaller quantities before committing to larger bottles and wasting product.
As sustainability regulations evolve, brands must prioritise materials that are recyclable, reusable, or made from recycled content to align with environmental goals. At Guardpack, we support brands in transitioning towards eco-friendly solutions without compromising quality or convenience.
Looking Ahead
Through embracing cosmetic recycling, investing in biodegradable and recyclable materials, reducing single-use plastic packaging and partnering with reputable manufacturers, the beauty industry has the tools to pave the way for a greener, more responsible future. The brands that adapt now will not only benefit our precious planet but also earn the loyalty of an increasingly eco-conscious customer base.
At Guardpack, we believe that innovation in packaging will play a crucial role in shaping the future of sustainable beauty. As a leading manufacturer, we are dedicated to working alongside brands to develop solutions that meet both consumer demand and environmental responsibility.
For more information about our sustainable contract packaging and sustainable wet wipe and sachet options, get in touch with us today by filling out our contact form, email us at trade@guardpack.co.uk, or speak to one of the team today on 01245 505807.
