As the industry continues to be redefined in regards to sustainability, the Cosmetics industry is being asked to redefine their packaging choices. In skincare brands to the luxury makeup lines, businesses are beginning to understand that beauty does not have to be at the cost of the planet.

One of the simplest changes that can be undertaken in this regard is, perhaps, changing to compostable packaging (composite bags, in particular). Compostable bags are not only in line with consumer demands of greener (or edible) products, they are part of an international trend to end the plastic pollution.

As we look at compostable bags and their role in transforming the cosmetics industry, we will discuss some of the benefits of switching to compostable bags and how brands can ease into a sustainable future.

The Need for Sustainable Packaging in the Cosmetics Industry

Why Sustainable Packaging Is Necessary for the Cosmetic Industry

Every year, the beauty industry creates millions of tonnes of packaging waste. Most of this waste comes from the non-recyclable plastic used for wrappers, pouches, and shipping material. According to studies, nearly 70% of cosmetic packaging waste ends up in landfills, where it can take hundreds of years to break down. Therefore, it is promising that consumers are increasingly demanding ethically sourced ingredients, transparency, and environmentally responsible packaging. As a result, cosmetic brands are moving from “reduction and recycling” to a “circular economy” that focuses on renewable and compostable materials. Compostable bags are a change agent in this context.

What Are Compostable Bags?

Compostable bags are made up of natural, renewable plant-based polymers such as cornstarch, sugarcane or PLA (polylactic acid). Unlike plastic, they will completely break down under composting conditions and return everything to nature as water, carbon dioxide, and organic matter…no toxins, no microplastics.

For the cosmetic industry, compostable bags can be used for:

• Product packaging (ie. pouches for soaps, facial wipes, bath salts, etc.)
• Store carry bags
• E-commerce shipping bags
• Sample or promotional packaging
  
  

These options provide brands with alternatives for harmful plastic packaging without sacrificing performance or appearance.

Why Compostable Bags Are a Game-Changer for the Cosmetics Industry

1. Aligning with Consumer Expectations

Today’s consumers are conscious of sustainability, and more shoppers each year seek eco-friendly packaging and are willing to pay a premium. By switching to compostable bags, cosmetic brands are communicating their dual commitment to beauty, and to doing the right thing.

The brands that visibly take steps for the environment cultivate trust and loyalty among customers who desire their purchases to matter as part of the more positive change.

2. Reducing Plastic Waste

Flexible plastics are highly prevalent in the cosmetics industry and can’t be recycled easily. Compostable bags can provide a circular solution, assuring consumers that their packaging is safely returning to nature.

Compostable bags, instead of languishing in the environment for hundreds of years as their plastic counterparts would, will decompose naturally within 90 to 180 days when composted. This significantly reduces both landfill and ocean pollution.

3. Meeting Government Regulations

Brands using non-biodegradable packaging will be impacted by India’s single-use plastic ban, as well as the international pushback on plastic waste.

Compostable bags, preferably CPCB (Central Pollution Control Board) certified, comply with all regulatory standards, and are compliant.

4. Enhancing Brand Image

In today’s competing beauty industry, sustainability is not merely a decision – it is a competitive advantage. Sustainable packaging shows a consumer proof of a brand’s authenticity, responsibility, and innovation. Jokingly, switching your packaging to compostable bags helps create a brand that consumers perceive as progressive and socially responsible. Trying to leverage eco-friendly films helps to prove to eco-conscious consumers and media alike that you care about the environment.

5. Maintaining Aesthetic Appeal

Many believe that by moving to eco-friendly packaging, that style and overall product aesthetics will be compromised. Packaging companies have designed compostable bags to meet the rigid standard and styles as traditional plastic. Waste not, want not! These bags can be printed with natural inks, if desired printed in colors and textures with the same overall look and feel as traditional plastic packaging. You can still have a high-end look, and not compromise sustainable, eco-friendly solutions.

How Cosmetic Brands Can Transition to Compostable Packaging

Transitioning your packaging from plastic to sustainable/compostable packaging may take some consideration, however it is easier than a majority of brands may anticipate. Here are ways that cosmetics brands to consider:

1. Partner with Certified Suppliers

Work with a reputable, government approved supplier such as Dr. Earth, who manufactures certified compostable and biodegradable bags made of 100% natural materials. It’s important to ensure your new compostable packaging acclaims to the correct equivalence.

2. Start with High-Impact Products

Start using compostable bags in the places that generate the most waste — including retail carry bags, sample packaging, and e-commerce mailers. These are all visible touchpoints that create immediate impact to your customers.

3. Educate Consumers

Sustainability works when customers understand its value. Provide messaging on packaging that states, “Made from 100% Compostable Material” or “Returns Safely to Nature.” 

You will want your customers to compost the packaging after use, and to also document your sustainable journey and raise awareness on social media that highlights your brand.

4. Highlight Sustainability in Branding

Commit the path to sustainability as part of your brand identity. Highlight in places such as your website, product label, and based campaigns you are committed. Many successful sustainable brands have successfully built a community care built around green advocacy as part of their story.

5. Track Impact

Be sure to measure your reduction in the use of plastic and the associated savings to show success. For example, show how many kilograms of plastic your brand diverted from landfills simply by replacing plastic bags with compostable bags. Transparency associated with achieving outcomes develops greater trust.

The Dr. Earth Advantage

We are known throughout India as the leading manufacturer of biodegradable and compostable bags, offering eco-friendly packaging solutions to business in all industries, including cosmetics.

Our compostable bags are:

• 100% plant-based and non-toxic
• CPCB-certified and approved by governments
• Strong, durable, and leak-proof
• Available in three types – garbage bags, carry bags and grocery bags.
  
  

For cosmetic brands, Dr. Earth also offers customized, branded compostable packaging that perfectly marries function, aesthetics and environmental stewardship.

Conclusion

The cosmetics industry of the future employs clean, conscious, and compostable alternatives, and compostable bags allow brands to significantly reduce their environmental footprint, comply with consumer sentiment, and become compliant with government regulation. 

Sustainability isn’t just about preventing damage to the planet – it is about re-defining what beauty means. Cosmetic brands can help lead the charge toward a cleaner and greener and beautiful world by using compostable packaging from Dr. Earth. 

FAQs 

Q-1. Are compostable bags an appropriate option for cosmetic packaging? 

Ans- Yes. Compostable bags are a solution for cosmetics products such as soaps, facial wipes, powders, and similar products that are dry or semi-dry in nature. Compostable bags can also be an ideal outer wrap, shipping, or carrying bag for cosmetic products.

Q-2. Do compostable bags provide the same extent of visual beauty as plastic bags? 

Ans- Yes. Today’s compostable materials are able to look premium, transparent, and colorful; the same visual beauty as a plastic bag while being naturally biodegradable for the environment. 

Q-3. Are compostable bags safe for use with products that contact the skin?

Ans- Yes. Compostable bags are made from natural plant materials and are non-toxic for product packaging that get in contact with the skin.

Q-4. How long will it take for a compostable bag to decompose? 

Ans- Compostable bags will take approximately 3 to 6 months or, particularly, to decompose completely into organic matter with the proper composting conditions, and without leaving microplastics behind. 

Q-5. Where can companies in the cosmetics space purchase certified compostable bags?

Ans- Companies can purchase certified compostable bags from Dr. Earth, which is an established Indian manufacturer that produces eco-friendly packaging products across industries.