PE_Nova_SGD

SGD Pharma has revealed a lightweight glass bottle range that claims to optimize weight, lower carbon footprint, and utilize the functionality and aesthetic appeal of glass in cosmetics and beauty packaging.

Citing the findings of Bain & Company’s ‘Unpacking Asia-Pacific Consumers’ New Love Affair with Sustainability’ report that consumers prioritize environmental and social benefits when they spend, SDG Pharma has designed its Nova bottles to be lightweight and minimize greenhouse gas emissions. A 200ml Nova bottle is said to reduce CO2 emissions by around 20% compared to the company’s standard Dorado range.

It makes use of Narrow Neck Press and Blow (NNPB) forming technology, which SDG Pharma has previously used in its Clareo range of pharma vials, and apparently combines a lower weight with glass distribution optimization for enhanced mechanical resistance – thus strengthening the bottles against transport and distribution pressures.

Conventional cosmetic bottles produced in a Blow and Blow process offer a weight-volume ratio from 1.0 to 3.0, SDG Pharma explains – yet the 200ml Nova bottle, with a brimful volume of 215ml and a weight of 140g, has reportedly reached a ratio of 0.65 without sacrificing the properties, safety, or luxury feel and aesthetic of heavier models.

The bottles were revealed at Cosmoprof Asia in Hong Kong.

“Nova is the latest innovation from our Zhanjiang plant in China, representing the ‘star’ performance needed by beauty brands of both aesthetics and functionality,” explains Chunyan Zheng, deputy general manager of Industrial Operation at SGD Pharma’s plant in Zhanjiang. “SGD Pharma has a proven record of quickly addressing changing customer needs and Nova is the manifestation of our ambition for improved ecological performance and reduced manufacturing emissions, making it the optimal packaging solution for 21st century cosmetic brands.”

Frédéric Barbier, general manager of SGD Pharma BU APAC, continues: “SGD Pharma’s global goal is to reduce its carbon footprint 35% by 2030, and 65% by 2040 (compared with 2020 baseline), scope 1 & 2. SGD Pharma recently announced its participation in the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and is currently working on the 1.5°C scenario decarbonization pathway validation including scope 3 emissions.

“Nova is one of many actions we take to advance our ambitious decarbonization strategy. Our experienced team can support beauty brands in the development of their own lightweight bottle while maintaining the functional integrity and design potential of packaging.”

Other companies have also pursued a transition into glass to improve the sustainability credentials in beauty and cosmetics. Necessary Good has adopted refillable primary glass packaging designed by Croxsons for its essential skincare products; and, similarly, Coverpla’s Koesio Parfums brand has rolled out refillable versions of its perfume bottles, also made of glass.

Meanwhile, the Polo Earth vegan fragrance from L’Oréal Group’s Ralph Lauren Fragrances brand has been repackaged in a refillable bottle that utilizes 20% post-consumer recycled glass.

If you liked this article, you might also enjoy:

The L’Oréal approach to packaging sustainability

The way we talk about plastic needs to change – here’s how to get it right

What steps is Apple taking to make its packaging more sustainable?

The Danone approach to packaging sustainability