Page 12 - CTPA-Annual-Report-2019-book

3 Review of the Year
Microplastics
It is widely acknowledged that cosmetic and personal care products account for a tiny fraction of the problem of
marine plastic pollution. Ahead of reglatory change,
the cosmetics industry took action where it was felt that action could be a positive step, and committed to voluntarily phase-out plastic microbeads in rinse-off cosmetic products by 2020. The cosmetics industry is working to be a part of the wider solution, through research and activities in this area. However, plastic waste is a major global problem which affects all industries and individual actions.
In January 2018, the European Commission adopted its European Strategy for Plastics. As part of this strategy,
the Commission requested the European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) to prepare a proposal to restrict microplastics intentionally added to consumer products according to the framework of the REACH Regulation.
In January 2019, ECHA published a Restriction proposal.
The proposal, and in particular the definition of
‘microplastic’, is broad and encompasses solid polymers, which are not always plastics and which play an important functional role in most cosmetic product categories. If this Restriction is implemented, the cosmetics industry will be challenged with the reformulation of a large number of formulations while suitable alternatives for polymers currently used are not readily available. Loss of certain polymers could mean reduced product performance, restricted innovation and limited consumer choice, with no benefit to the
marine environment.
CTPA has been actively participating in the Microplastics Task Force at Cosmetics Europe, which has been working with European stakeholders to provide scientific and socio-economic information on the impact of the proposed Restriction. CTPA has been working across relevant
UK Government departments; previously to input into the European discussions, but now to focus on the UK-specific future policy strategy with regard to microplastics.
CTPA has been keeping members informed of the development of the REACH Restriction proposal through regular news updates and a webinar which focussed on the practicalities of the Restriction and helping members to assess the potential impact for their businesses. Further webinars are planned for 2020.
Sustainability Strategy
Given the increasing legal requirements, rising costs and operational issues, unprepared businesses face jeopardy from potential supply chain vulnerabilities affecting sourcing and transportation, as well as operational difficulties around energy, water or
waste management. By embedding good practice
and policies in good time, businesses will be more prepared to adapt to the changing landscape.
CTPA’s aspiration is for members to embed sustainable principles right across the value chain, from producers to consumers.
CTPA’s Sustainability Strategy; Driving Towards a
Net Positive Cosmetics Industry has been developed throughout 2019 in partnership with Forum for
the Future, a leading International sustainability non-profit organisation, and with CTPA’s Environmental Sustainability Working Group (ESWG).
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