The colour cosmetics industry faces a significant challenge: the recyclability of its packaging. Small and cylindrical packaging formats, which are typical for products such as mascara or lipstick, make sorting in recycling plants more difficult. This is shown in a results paper by the Forum Rezyklat, which was compiled by experts from the industry.
A practical test in a German sorting plant illustrates the problem: it showed that, in the vast majority of cases, numerous types of decorative cosmetics packaging cannot be assigned to the correct material streams due to their small dimensions or geometry. Even if there are individual sorting technologies in which size and shape play a subordinate role, these are not currently state of the art and are therefore not relevant for today's recycling reality.
Ecological conflicts of interest
Making the packaging larger or switching to alternative materials such as glass or aluminium could improve sortability. However, this would lead to higher CO₂ emissions and increased material consumption. The experts warn against these ecological conflicts of interest and emphasise the need for practical solutions.
Requirements for the PPWR
Forum Rezyklat is calling for the EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) to set practical requirements that guarantee both recyclability and product safety. This includes realistic lead times for new regulatory requirements and more planning security for investments.
The Forum Rezyklat, an association of over 80 members from the entire value chain, works on strategies to promote the circular economy. The aim is to improve the quality of recycled materials and increase the proportion of recycled materials in packaging. The members are involved in various specialised packages to develop practical solutions and raise awareness of the circular economy.
Source: Forum Recyclate
