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On International Zero Waste Day, NATRUE highlights how the natural and organic cosmetics sector can contribute to a circular and responsible production model. While this year’s focus is on food waste – with over 58 million tonnes (130 kg/inhabitant) generated annually in the EU (Eurostat, 2025) – the principles of resource efficiency and upcycling are equally relevant to cosmetics.
The creative reuse of food by-products through upcycling allows ingredients that would otherwise be discarded – such as olive oil residues, citrus peels, seeds, cocoa beans, coffee grounds, and grape pomace – to be transformed into effective cosmetic ingredients. These materials can be reincorporated into new production cycles, for example in hair colour pigments, scrubs or essential oils, reducing organic waste and supporting a more efficient use of raw materials.
| Dr Mark Smith, NATRUE Director General, comments: “The challenge today is not just about reducing waste but to rethink the value of the resources we already have. Upcycling by-products and designing packaging with lower environmental impact are practical examples where cosmetics can positively contribute to a circular economy. The personal care and beauty sector’s increasing investment in various fields of sustainable innovation shows that quality and environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand.” |
The NATRUE standards promotes a holistic vision of sustainability. The Label requires the use of natural and organic ingredients meeting strict criteria, encourage responsible production processes, and support ethical decisions that minimise environmental impact. Independent and transparent certification ensures credibility and protection for both consumers and the environment, reinforcing the sector’s role in advancing sustainable production and consumption models.
By establishing a framework integrating upcycling and minimal, sustainable packaging into cosmetic products, the NATRUE Label demonstrates that the natural beauty industry can be a force for positive change – transforming waste into valuable resources while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.