Scientific Sustainability Report: Mix Fruit Face Cream

1. Introduction

Mix Fruit Face Cream is a cosmetic product formulated from natural fruit extracts and oils intended for skin nourishment and hydration. Given the increasing consumer demand for sustainable and eco-friendly skincare, this report evaluates the sustainability aspects of Mix Fruit Face Cream, including raw material sourcing, production footprint, biodegradability, and packaging.

2. Product Composition and Ingredients

A typical Mix Fruit Face Cream may contain:

• Water (Aqua) – solvent

• Fruit extracts (e.g., mango, papaya, banana, strawberry) – antioxidants and vitamins

• Carrier oils (e.g., coconut oil, almond oil) – moisturizing agents

• Emulsifiers (e.g., cetyl alcohol)

• Preservatives (natural or synthetic)

• Fragrance (natural fruit essences)

3. Sustainability Analysis

3.1 Raw Material Sourcing

• Fruits: Natural fruits used must be sustainably farmed to avoid deforestation and excessive pesticide use. Organic farming is preferred.

• Oils: Carrier oils should be sourced from sustainable plantations certified by organizations like RSPO (Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil).

• Water Use: Production water footprint is a critical factor.

3.2 Environmental Footprint Calculation

We estimate the carbon footprint and water footprint per 100 g of Mix Fruit Face Cream.

3.2.1 Carbon Footprint Estimation

Approximate carbon emissions (CO₂ eq) per ingredient (values from literature):

Total estimated carbon footprint per 100g
= 0.03 + 0.045 + 0.000018 + 0.01 + 0.004 = 0.089 kg CO₂ eq

3.2.2 Water Footprint Estimation

Using water footprint data (liters/kg):

Total water footprint per 100g
= 10 + 30 + 0.06 + 1.2 + 1 = 42.26 liters

3.3 Biodegradability

• Fruit extracts and carrier oils are biodegradable.

• Synthetic preservatives may have lower biodegradability.

• Packaging material sustainability impacts overall product footprint.

4. Packaging Sustainability

• Use of recyclable or biodegradable packaging reduces environmental burden.

• Glass jars or recyclable PET containers preferred over plastic tubes.

5. Discussion

• The carbon footprint (0.089 kg CO₂ eq per 100g) is moderate compared to many cosmetic products.

• Water footprint (~42 liters per 100g) is high, primarily due to fruit and oil sourcing, necessitating efficient sourcing strategies.

• Natural ingredients increase biodegradability and reduce chemical pollution.

• Sustainable packaging and responsible sourcing significantly improve product sustainability.

6. Conclusion and Recommendations

• To improve sustainability, prioritize organic and locally sourced fruit extracts and carrier oils.

• Replace synthetic preservatives with natural alternatives.

• Optimize packaging to be fully recyclable or compostable.

• Educate consumers on proper disposal.

References

1. Poore, J., & Nemecek, T. (2018). Reducing food’s environmental impacts through producers and consumers. Science, 360(6392), 987-992. https://doi.org/10.1126/science.aaq0216

2. Gerber, P. J., et al. (2013). Tackling climate change through livestock: A global assessment of emissions and mitigation opportunities. FAO.

3. Water Footprint Network. (2023). Water footprint assessment manual.

4. Roundtable on Sustainable Palm Oil (RSPO). (2024). RSPO Certification standards.

5. Draelos, Z. D. (2018). Cosmetic Dermatology: Products and Procedures. Wiley-Blackwell.