In an effort to develop more eco-friendly products, L’Oréal is embracing a “green sciences” approach to research and innovation.
The beauty conglomerate is working toward having 95 percent of its product ingredients derived from renewable plant sources, abundant minerals, or circular processes by 2030. The company also plans to make 100 percent of its marine life-friendly formulas over the next 10 years.
The effort comes at a time when protecting the planet has become more than a growing concern and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has heightened the demand for products that are not only safe to use but safe for the environment as well.
“With Green Sciences we are entering a new chapter for L’Oréal Research & Innovation, which has been a key driving force behind the company since its creation. Our ambition is that by 2030 we will be able to offer women and men around the world increasingly effective, safe cosmetics that respect the environment,” said Nicolas Hieronimus, L’Oréal Deputy Chief Executive Officer, in charge of Divisions.
As of last year, 80 percent of the raw materials that were used in L’Oréal’s products were easily biodegradable, 59 percent were renewable, and 34 percent were natural or of natural origin. Furthermore, 29 percent of the ingredients used in L’Oréal formulas were developed in adherence to green chemistry principles.
The new division will further draw on advancements that are being made in green sciences to support sustainable cultivation and extraction of ingredients through cutting-edge technological processes.
“Thanks to Green Sciences we are able to take up this ambitious scientific and technical challenge. This virtuous, circular economy-based approach will allow us to achieve new levels of performance and discover unprecedented cosmetic benefits without compromising on quality or safety, in the service of beauty that is respectful of the planet,” said Barbara Lavernos, the company’s chief research, innovation and technology officer.
To fully achieve this transition, L’Oréal will utilize more green resources and a full range of strategic partnerships through universities, start-ups, and its own raw material suppliers.
The beauty brand also plans to be transparent about its ingredients and how they are sourced. The company said it would answer questions from the public about the ingredients used in formulas and its composition through its “Inside Our Products” website. Additionally, the beauty conglomerate will continue its information campaign, which was originally launched in June 2020, by highlighting the environmental and social impact of cosmetic products. The initiative is currently being deployed with Garnier and will eventually include all of L’Oréal brands.
And last but not least, in March 2021, an initiative to raise awareness will be launched that will allow consumers to talk directly with researchers through social media.
