Latest news with #responsibleconsumption
Yahoo
07-07-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The rise of eco-friendly cosmetic packaging
Consumer demand for sustainable beauty products has catalysed a transformation in the global cosmetics industry, with eco-friendly packaging becoming a key area of innovation and growth. As environmental awareness continues to influence purchasing behaviour, cosmetic brands are increasingly seeking alternatives to conventional plastic packaging. This shift is driving the eco-friendly cosmetic packaging market towards steady expansion, with projections showing significant growth through 2034 and beyond. The rise in demand for green cosmetics is not merely a trend—it reflects a broader cultural shift towards responsible consumption. Shoppers are paying closer attention to the environmental footprint of their purchases, prioritising brands that embrace ethical sourcing, cruelty-free formulations, and recyclable or biodegradable packaging. Market research suggests that eco-friendly cosmetic packaging is poised for sustained growth over the next decade. Key factors behind this trend include tightening environmental regulations, consumer preference for minimal-waste solutions, and a spike in e-commerce, which has underscored the need for sustainable shipping materials. As a result, major beauty companies are redesigning their product packaging to include materials such as glass, bamboo, post-consumer recycled plastics, and compostable biopolymers. Notably, sustainable cosmetic packaging is no longer confined to niche or luxury brands. Mass-market players are also investing heavily in R&D to deliver environmentally friendly packaging options that are both functional and appealing. Brands are introducing refillable containers, recyclable pouches, and packaging that doubles as storage to reduce waste. Innovation in materials technology is reshaping the eco-conscious packaging landscape. Biodegradable plastics derived from corn starch or sugarcane, aluminium tubes, and FSC-certified paperboard cartons are gaining traction across the industry. These materials offer the durability and shelf appeal needed for commercial success while also aligning with environmental goals. In tandem with material innovation, circular economy principles are being integrated into packaging strategies. Refillable and reusable packaging systems are becoming more mainstream, reducing the demand for virgin materials and lowering overall carbon footprints. For example, several brands now offer refill stations in stores or mail-back programmes for used packaging, incentivising repeat customers while promoting sustainability. Minimalist and zero-waste packaging designs are also on the rise, with companies seeking to reduce excess components like outer boxes, inserts, and plastic film wraps. In some cases, packaging is even designed to serve a secondary function—such as doubling as a beauty organiser or travel case—extending its lifecycle and reducing environmental impact. Environmental legislation is playing a crucial role in shaping the eco-friendly cosmetic packaging market. In Europe, for instance, the EU's Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive is pushing companies to meet ambitious recycling and waste reduction targets. Similarly, the UK's Plastic Packaging Tax, introduced in April 2022, has prompted manufacturers to increase the use of recycled materials in their packaging lines. Such regulations are encouraging the development of more sustainable practices across the supply chain, from raw material sourcing to end-of-life disposal. Companies that fail to adapt risk not only financial penalties but also reputational damage among increasingly eco-aware consumers. However, regulatory compliance is only part of the equation. Consumer education plays a vital role in driving sustainable packaging adoption. Brands that clearly communicate the environmental benefits of their packaging—through labelling, social media campaigns, or product demonstrations—tend to build stronger customer loyalty. Transparency around recyclability, compostability, and carbon emissions helps customers make informed decisions and strengthens trust in the brand. At the same time, third-party certifications such as Cradle to Cradle, Ecocert, and the Leaping Bunny logo help consumers identify genuinely sustainable products amidst a crowded marketplace. These accreditations are fast becoming key differentiators in an industry where greenwashing is an ongoing concern. As sustainability moves from a peripheral concern to a central business strategy, the future of eco-friendly cosmetic packaging looks robust. Forecasts indicate continued growth in this segment, with the global market projected to reach billions in value by the early 2030s. This growth is expected to be particularly strong in Asia-Pacific and North America, where increasing urbanisation, rising disposable income, and growing environmental awareness are converging. Emerging technologies—such as smart packaging that tracks usage or alerts users when a product needs replenishment—may also intersect with sustainability trends, offering novel ways to reduce waste and optimise product life cycles. Ultimately, the success of eco-friendly packaging in the beauty industry will depend on balancing aesthetics, functionality, and affordability with environmental responsibility. As consumer expectations evolve and sustainable innovation accelerates, brands that invest in greener packaging solutions today will be better positioned for long-term relevance and market leadership. "The rise of eco-friendly cosmetic packaging" was originally created and published by Packaging Gateway, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Al Bawaba
06-07-2025
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Tomorrow Takes Flight: The Emirates Group showcases collaborative sustainability initiatives in aviation
The Emirates Group's efforts to align with this year's UN call to end plastic pollution were on display at its 'Tomorrow Takes Flight' event, its annual sustainability showcase. The exhibition echoed the international organisation's mission to reduce single-use plastic products, spotlighting Emirates' and dnata's efforts and approach to 'Consuming Responsibly' through sourcing, reusing, repurposing, and reducing plastic and other year's exhibition showcased initiatives that are driving impact across the organisation, including projects at both Emirates and dnata being implemented with like-minded partners and across departments and businesses like engineering, catering, cargo, airport operations, travel, service delivery, and the conference stage, employees heard about the work Emirates, dnata and partners are doing to advance sustainable practices, with panellists from Emirates Engineering, Flight Operations, Service Delivery, Emirates SkyCargo and dnata Technical Services in addition to a powerful lineup of industry partners like the University of Cambridge, the UAE GCAA, Airbus, Boeing, ENOC, Cobus Industries GmbH, TLD, Mallaghan, GE Aerospace, Rolls-Royce and Dubai Airports contributing to at the opening of 'Tomorrow Takes Flight', Adel Al Redha, Emirates' Deputy President & Chief Operations Officer said: 'Today's event celebrates our sustainability journey while educating and inspiring our people through the showcased initiatives and meaningful discussions on sustainable practices. Environmental responsibility is essential to achieving our objectives as an airline and as an industry, and it supports the UAE's Net Zero 2050 governments and communities demanding meaningful action, collective responsibility across the entire ecosystem is vital. Emirates is making progress with emissions reduction projects across our operations, and we're actively pursuing programmes that conserve resources through recycling and responsible sourcing. Collaboration with industry partners will be crucial in the years ahead to enhance the recyclability of materials across the supply also encouraging our teams to build on the success of existing initiatives and push boundaries to develop new approaches that address the full spectrum of operational waste, and today is a great example of these drives. From cabin materials and catering to ground operations and maintenance, every touchpoint presents an opportunity to minimise environmental impact.'Steve Allen, dnata's CEO, added: 'Sustainability is a fundamental part of how we operate as a global business. It shapes the decisions we make, the investments we prioritise, and the standards we set for ourselves and our partners. 'We are driving progress through action: investing in renewable energy infrastructure at our facilities, accelerating the shift to electric ground support equipment, and collaborating with alternative fuel suppliers to lower emissions. At the same time, we're tackling food waste, promoting responsible consumption, and expanding recycling programmes as part of a broader shift toward circular resource management.'These initiatives are united by a clear ambition: to grow responsibly while delivering meaningful, lasting impact. This commitment is reflected in our team's innovative, creative solutions and community partnerships, extending our efforts well beyond our core operations.'It was a pleasure to highlight dnata's initiatives to colleagues and partners through this unique event - a great opportunity to celebrate progress, share ideas, and strengthen the sense of purpose behind our sustainability journey.'Sustainability initiatives on showcase included:The next chapter of 'Aircrafted by Emirates', which includes transforming retired aircraft parts into functionally aesthetic items with a focus on metal and different composite materialsService Delivery teams presented onboard products using alternative or recycled cleanup efforts at the Dubai Desert Conservation ReserveAn Emirates Flight Catering biodigester interactive displaySustainable food samples provided by MMI, Emirates Leisure Retail, dnata Catering & Retail and Emirates Flight Cateringdnata showcased its global sustainability efforts through a diverse range of initiatives across its international businesses at the event. The Catering team highlighted the use of plant-based packaging and a commitment to minimising waste by making the most of every ingredient in their kitchens. dnata Cargo demonstrated its comprehensive recycling programmes, while marhaba presented lounge initiatives focused on reducing food waste. The event also featured sustainability projects from dnata Travel, including the deployment of a river interceptor in Sri Lanka to prevent ocean pollution and the distribution of reusable items to employees - reinforcing the company's commitment to responsible like Ecyclex and Reloop demonstrated how different waste streams are recycled, including e-waste, in collaboration with Emirates Group IT, and dedicated a part of their display for employees to drop recyclables; Falcon Aircraft Recycling showcased products made of recycled aircraft parts and Dubai Can illustrated the progress of its Dubai Reef project, the world's largest single purpose-built reef development. The United Nations Global Compact (UNGC) outlined global sustainability principles, SDG's and this year's UN theme to #beatplasticpollution. Dubai Airports showcased how they are tackling airport-specific waste through innovation and collaboration, driving meaningful reductions across the airport also participated in quizzes and games, booth challenges, and other interactive activities to win prizes. Participants were also encouraged to contribute to the event's 'Bottle Wall', prior to the event. Collected bottles were upcycled into custom plant pots for staff to take home as part of the Tomorrow Takes Flight challenge. To learn more about what Emirates' environmental efforts and key focus areas - reducing emissions, consuming responsibly and preserving wildlife and habitats check out: Connecting Tomorrow. © 2000 - 2025 Al Bawaba (
South China Morning Post
22-06-2025
- Politics
- South China Morning Post
The Lens: Thailand beer deal for teachers sparks debate over image and welfare
Thoughts from last week Isabelle Wei, 17, Canadian International School of Hong Kong Isabelle Wei attends the Canadian International School of Hong Kong. Photo: Handout A one-year beer deal in Thailand, established between the government office responsible for improving teachers' welfare and Tawandang German Brewery, offers educators a 10 per cent discount at select brewery branches. However, this partnership has faced criticism from the Thai Teachers Against Vice-Promoting Welfare network. Some social media users have dismissed the network's concerns, stating that a modest beer discount is unlikely to significantly increase harmful drinking. Others have criticised the focus on image over educational quality, particularly given recent headlines involving disciplinary measures for teachers and misalignment with professional decorum. This partnership unfolds amid shifting alcohol policies in Thailand, which include relaxed advertising restrictions aimed at boosting the country's beverage industry and enhancing its soft power. Although this liberalisation is still in progress, it suggests a societal move toward moderation rather than prohibition. Therefore, if the goal is to protect students, I believe that education on responsible consumption – rather than outright condemnation – might be more effective. A 2024 survey found that nearly 40 per cent of Thai teachers experience monthly financial difficulties. Addressing these challenges would be more beneficial for educators and pave the way for structural reforms. I believe it is important for teachers to care about their image, as students often observe and imitate their behaviour, whether consciously or not. However, despite the network's concerns about professionalism, the intensity of the reaction risks reinforcing respectability politics that do little to genuinely improve teachers' well-being. Therefore, the focus should shift from questions of image alone – 'Should teachers drink?' – to interrogating underlying issues of income and inequality, which may prove to be more pressing concerns. Read up on this issue in last week's The Lens Read and observe Cambodia has banned Thai fruit and vegetable imports after a border clash at the Emerald Triangle. Photo: EPA-EFE Cambodia has banned imports of fruit and vegetables from Thailand as the two countries face off over a border dispute that led to a bloody military clash last month. A Cambodian soldier was killed on May 28 as troops exchanged fire in a disputed area known as the Emerald Triangle, where the borders of Cambodia, Thailand and Laos meet. Thailand has imposed border restrictions on Cambodia in recent days, while Cambodia has banned Thai dramas, closed a popular border checkpoint and cut internet bandwidth from Thailand. Cambodia's influential former leader, Hun Sen, issued an ultimatum to Thailand, demanding that it lift border crossing restrictions within 24 hours or face a ban on all Thai fruit and vegetable imports. Cambodian authorities stated that their Thai counterparts had still imposed the border restrictions and Hun Sen's ultimatum had taken effect. Sok Veasna, director general of the General Department of Immigration, said visitors could still cross the border between the two countries. Cambodia has formally requested the International Court of Justice (ICJ) to assist in resolving border disputes in four areas. Hun Sen also called on tens of thousands of Cambodian migrants working in Thailand to return home, saying they would face increased discrimination as the border spat drags on. Cambodia has previously sought help from the ICJ in a territorial dispute over a border temple. In 1962, the court ruled that the disputed Preah Vihear temple belonged to Cambodia, and in 2013, the ICJ awarded an adjacent area to Cambodia as well. Thailand said it did not accept the court's jurisdiction. Violence sparked by the dispute has led to 28 deaths in the region since 2008. Agence France-Presse Research and respond How might the Thailand-Cambodia dispute impact diplomatic relations in Southeast Asia in the long term? What are the implications of restricting trade on both Cambodia's and Thailand's economies and local communities? In what ways could the involvement of the ICJ influence future border disputes in the region?
The Guardian
29-05-2025
- Business
- The Guardian
Ask the experts: how do you make your money matter?
The rising cost of living undoubtedly affects the choices we can make, but research suggests Australian shoppers are still driven by their personal values. Sustainability is one of the biggest considerations. When Monash University surveyed Australian shoppers in 2024, 46% said sustainability was an important factor when they were making a retail purchase, while 30% frequently looked for sustainable products. Ethical supply chains, animal welfare, and commitments to diversity and inclusion are also common considerations for consumers, other research has found. This thinking affects decisions about products and services, but experts say to see real impact, we need to apply ethics to our financial and superannuation choices, too. Many Australians already do this. Research conducted by the Responsible Investment Association Australasia (RIAA) found that in 2024, 88% of Australians expected their investments to be responsible and ethical, up from 83% in 2022, while 65% said they would invest more if their investments made a positive impact in the the world (up from 61% in 2022). The RIAA's co-CEO, Estelle Parker, suggests we carefully consider our individual values when choosing where our money goes. Almost all of us are investing in shares and other assets via the choices our super funds make on our behalf – which don't necessarily fit with our own values. Fortunately, it's easy to switch to a fund that's more aligned. 'The first thing is to decide what they want to achieve with their investment portfolio,' Parker says. 'People can look at the websites of the funds they're considering and make sure that those funds actually do support their values.' Every super fund is legally required to disclose its investments, but the disclosure isn't always that easy to find or understand. Fortunately, there are tools that can help. Parker recommends checking out Responsible Returns, an independent source of information about super funds' portfolio holdings, and Market Forces' regular reports on how the finance industry contributes to climate change. Responsible Investment Association Australasia CEO, Estelle Parker 'We are all in a position to make a small difference through our super or other investment portfolios,' Parker says. 'People are cottoning onto that, and the growing demand is being met by really good quality financial investment options that people can take advantage of. One of the funds featured on the Responsible Returns website is Australian Ethical. Alison George, Australian Ethical's chief impact and ethics officer, spends a good part of her working week making sure that where Australian Ethical invests its customers' money – which adds up to more than $13bn in managed funds and super – reflects the organisation's values and those of its customers. 'Australians have a choice of which super fund they have and can move that money at any time,' George says. 'You are making a choice, whether you're making an active one or not.' Doing nothing, George says, is an action in itself. 'At Australian Ethical we have a theory of change for the future that guides the way we approach business and approach investment. We believe that if consumers vote with their choices and move to the funds that care about people, planet and animals, this kind of investing can grow. 'One day it could just be normal for investments to consider the impact on the environment and society as well as the impact on the bottom line, and money can become a force for good.' Australian Ethical chief impact and ethics officer, Alison George For many people, super is one of the largest investments we will make in our lifetimes – and together we can use it to make significant impact. 'The choices that we make as individuals do matter,' George says. 'Like climate change: we know it's an urgent threat. We know that as individuals, it's hard for us to tackle and engage with. But your money aggregated with others, invested for positive climate solutions for the future, is a great way that you can be doing your part to shift the dial on that issue.' Will van de Pol is the CEO at Market Forces, which holds Australian financial institutions to account on climate. He says values-driven decisions are one of the most powerful ways we can make our money matter. 'When it comes to taking on some of the world's biggest challenges – like climate change – ensuring that your power as the customer is used in a way that drives solutions to problems is incredibly important and powerful,' he says. 'The point is to make decisions about what you value most highly and see as ethical, and follow that through with your decision-making.' Market Forces CEO, Will van de Pol Australians who care about sustainability might choose to buy locally grown produce or an electric vehicle. If fair working conditions are important, they might research a product's supply chain or find alternatives to fast fashion. George says: 'We're all busy people – but the idea here is to start acting on what you know and think about making better choices, rather than doing nothing while you wait for perfect information. 'When you have time, put that effort into things that are more impactful and bigger choices for you. The car you drive, your bank, your super fund – they're all good examples of decisions that can have really broad-ranging and long-term impacts. Australian Ethical is seeing more people making values-based choices about their super, George says. 'People are recognising the importance of their superannuation money as something that they want to make sure is invested well, for themselves, for the planet and for society as well.' With $4.2tn held in super – more money than Australia's GDP – the potential for supporting change is profound. Imagine if all of that money was invested in companies trying to change the world for the better. A super fund that aligns with our values is one way we can become part of a force for good. Learn more about how Australian Ethical can invest your money to help build the future you want for yourself, your family and the world. This information is general in nature and is not intended to provide you with financial advice or take into account your personal objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on the information, consider its appropriateness to your circumstances and read the PDS and TMD at Issued by Australian Ethical Investment Ltd (ABN 47 003 188 930, AFSL 229949).
National Post
08-05-2025
- Business
- National Post
Diageo named Official Spirits Supporter in North, Central and South America for FIFA World Cup 26™
Article content Global spirits leader will become a Tournament Supporter of the FIFA World Cup 26™ and activate top consumer brands, including Casamigos, Don Julio, Buchanan's, Johnnie Walker and Smirnoff Together FIFA and Diageo will deliver unique fan-focused activations Diageo and FIFA will promote responsible consumption and celebration throughout the tournament's 16 Host Cities Article content Article content NEW YORK — FIFA and Diageo are teaming up for the first time ever for the FIFA World Cup 26™ in North, Central and South America. Article content As the global leader in spirits, with beloved brands throughout Canada, Mexico and the United States, where the tournament is to take place, Diageo will join the celebration as an Official Tournament Supporter with its own team of iconic players, including Casamigos and Don Julio tequila, Buchanan's and Johnnie Walker Scotch whisky and Smirnoff vodka. Article content Building on its history of championing sports, Diageo will leverage its iconic brands and historic creative marketing capabilities to engage fans through activations, on-the-ground initiatives and retail campaigns, all highlighting responsible drinking and community celebration. Article content 'We are proud to deepen our partnership with sports by bringing our unmatched portfolio to toast the FIFA World Cup 26,' said Cristina Diezhandino, Chief Marketing Officer at Diageo. 'Football is the world's biggest sport and with this tournament set to be the biggest in its history, we see this as a unique opportunity to celebrate with fans in new and meaningful ways.' Article content Chief Business Officer at FIFA, Romy Gaid added: 'We are delighted to welcome Diageo as an Official Tournament Supporter to the FIFA World Cup 26 Commercial Programme. It's great to be teaming up with the global leader in spirits for the biggest celebration of football ever. Through this agreement, Diageo will create unparalleled experiences for the fans that promote responsible celebration on the world's biggest stage.' Article content Diageo will be activating in each of the 16 Host Cities across Canada, Mexico and the United States and promoting the collaboration throughout the Americas. Article content This press release is not directed at anyone under the legal age for the consumption or buying of alcohol and is not intended for countries with restrictions related to the advertising of alcoholic beverages. Article content About DIAGEO Diageo is a global leader in beverage alcohol with an outstanding collection of brands across spirits and beer. These brands include Johnnie Walker, Crown Royal, J&B, Buchanan's whiskies, Smirnoff, Cîroc and Ketel One vodkas, Captain Morgan, Baileys, Don Julio, Tanqueray and Guinness. Article content Diageo is a global company, and our products are sold in nearly 180 countries around the world. The company is listed on both the London Stock Exchange (DGE) and the New York Stock Exchange (DEO). For more information about Diageo, our people, our brands, and performance, visit us at Article content Article content Article content Article content
