Climate Change, Beauty’s Influence and a Sustainable Path Forward

The article was authored by Dr. Giorgio Dell’Acqua and Antonia Kostic, and it was first published in the July 2024 edition of Cosmetics & Toiletries magazine

https://cosmeticsandtoiletries.texterity.com/cosmeticsandtoiletries/library/item/july_august_2024/4204107

KEY POINTS

  • This article describes drivers of climate change and how our industry can mitigate them.
  • It also explores the impact of climate change on naturals, novel farming/biotech solutions and choices formulators can make to support sustainability.

ABSTRACT:

The concept of sustainability prioritizes meeting current societal needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.1 Contrary to this, human-induced pollution and uncontrolled greenhouse gas emissions have led to global warming, ocean acidification, desertification and alterations in weather patterns. These changes manifest in immediate threats to food security, habitat extensions, rising sea levels, intensified storms along coastlines, health concerns, migration and economic losses.2

It is crucial to acknowledge that climate change is not a passing trend but a critical issue impacting every facet of life on Earth. Many of the consequences are irreversible and necessitate immediate action.3 Today’s consumers are more aware of climate change than ever before and as such, seek environmentally friendly product choices. In response, many cosmetic companies have created products that are both effective and eco-friendly, which responds to this urgent need while also keeping them competitive.1

However, things are rarely as straightforward as they seem. The current article describes factors driving climate change and how the cosmetic industry can impact them. It explores the effects of climate change on the natural ingredient supply and innovative farming and biotech solutions. It also outlines choices product developers can make to support the greater sustainability goal. While the cosmetics industry is not solely responsible for what is happening, it can take responsibility by acting now to neutralize its impact on the climate.4