SUSTAINABILITY OF THE COSMETIC INDUSTRY: EVALUATING THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS OF A REFORMULATED BODY BUTTER PRODUCT

This thesis investigates the sustainability of the cosmetic industry by evaluating the environmental impacts of a reformulated body butter product. The study encompasses various aspects of sustainability, including the use of eco-friendly ingredients, adherence to certification standards, and the application of Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) methodologies. The exploration of sustainability in the cosmetic industry highlights the importance of adopting environmentally friendly practices to reduce the industry's overall environmental footprint. This includes a discussion of microplastics in cosmetics and the need for alternative, more sustainable ingredients. Certification and standards play a crucial role in guiding consumers towards greener cosmetic choices. The thesis examines various certification bodies and standards, addressing the main concerns surrounding certified green cosmetic products, such as effectiveness, safety, and transparency. The methodology section outlines the goal and scope of the study, focusing on the evaluation of the reformulated body butter product. The case study compares the original formulation with two re-formulated options, emphasizing the replacement of synthetic ingredients with naturally derived alternatives. Using the cradle-to-gate approach and carbon footprint analysis, the study assesses the environmental impacts of the different body butter formulations. The results and discussion section presents a comparison of carbon footprints, interpretations of findings, and discussions of implications and insights gained from the study. Overall, this research provides valuable insights into the sustainability of the cosmetic industry and the environmental performance of reformulated cosmetic products. The findings aim to inform stakeholders and encourage further efforts towards sustainability in the cosmetic sector.