Biodiversity x Beauty
The popularization of "clean" beauty has undeniably caught the eye of many consumers, presenting itself as a leader in sustainability and environmental consciousness within the beauty industry. With labels like "sustainable" or "green," consumers are drawn by the thought of buying eco-friendly products that align with their values. Yet, though strides have been made in packaging sustainability, there is oversight: the preservation of biodiversity.
Biodiversity is the variety of life in all forms and all levels of organization. Biodiversity provides invaluable resources essential for human existence. From the food we eat, medicines we rely on, the forests which absorb carbon dioxide, and the materials we use to make clothes and shelter. Biodiversity is often confused with sustainability, which is the practices used to make sure biodiversity is maintained, both going hand and hand.
A lack of transparency is present within the manufacturing practices of many beauty brands, masking the environmental toll created by their operations. Reports, like this one released by Net Zero, shed light on reality, exposing the failure of top beauty companies to prioritize biodiversity conservation. Shockingly, none of the world's largest beauty companies have committed to independently validated Net Zero targets, with some failing to acknowledge the imperative altogether.
The responsibility of beauty companies goes beyond their direct environmental footprint, it involves the entire lifecycle of their products. From the extraction and sourcing of raw materials to the disposal of finished products, every stage can impact biodiversity. Irresponsible sourcing practices, excessive pollution, and wasteful consumption patterns strain on ecosystems.
To take away, the road towards clean beauty needs to break away from superficial packaging to address the threat the beauty industry has on biodiversity. As consumers, we also hold power through our purchasing decisions, through mindful purchases and demanding clarity of brands.