DESIGN OUT WASTE
As part of our journey to circularity, we’re committed to reducing waste at every step along the way—from how we design our packaging to the materials we use in our stores.
RE-DESIGNING THE FUTURE
We could “trash talk” other industries for creating waste, but the beauty industry is part of the problem. Skincare unquestionably contributes to the enormous quantities of plastic waste in landfills and oceans. Globally, over 300 million metric tons of plastic are discarded annually, nearly the equivalent weight of the human population.i Only an estimated 10% of the plastic ever created has been recycled.ii When plastic waste is sent to landfills, it takes over 450 years to decompose.iii So, we’re taking action with clear goals to reduce our impact by 2030.
OUR GOALS FOR 2030
OUR MISSION IN PROGRESS
We are working to transition 100% of our products to reusable and refillable packages, while incorporating
post-consumer recycled materials instead of virgin plastic to keep materials in play longer.
JOIN THE REFILL REVOLUTION
One way that we are working to achieve our mission is by introducing refillable products and packaging. This helps save resources and energy in production. Some of Kiehl’s most beloved formulas are now available in refillable pouches.
GIVING NEW LIFE TO OLD JARS
Nearly 120 billion units of packaging are produced each year by the personal care and beauty industry, however, only 10% of plastic ever created has been recycled.i, ii While less packaging is the best way to reduce single-use plastic, recycling is a good way to keep materials in play longer. Recycling practices vary around the world, and even plastic intended for recycling can end up in landfills or oceans if not handled properly. Since navigating recycling can be complicated, we strive to make it easier by giving you a drop-off location in your neighborhood with Recycle & Be Rewarded.
i Lindwall, Courtney. “Single-Use Plastics 101.” National Resources Defense Council. 2020. https://www.nrdc.org/stories/single-use-plastics-101#:~:text=We%20produce%20300%20million%20tons,to%20plastic%20production%20and%20use. ii ‘Our Planet is Choking on Plastic.” UN Environment Programme. https://www.unep.org/interactives/beat-plastic-pollution. iii “The Lifecycle of Plastics.” WWF Australia. 2021. https://www.wwf.org.au/news/blogs/the-lifecycle-of-plastics.
Goal targets are for 2030. Progress based on figures from Kiehl’s 2021 performance data and baseline established in 2019.
