Recently I went online to purchase a simple white T-shirt, and was surprised by the level of info I saw. Not only did the brand specify fabric and laundering instructions, it also detailed where the materials came from as well as the country in which it was manufactured. In addition, I could click on a link to learn more about the factory and the working conditions and wages of the employees. A random search of several other labels revealed similar—or more expansive—content. One site noted: “Organic farming [of the fibers] supports clean water and healthy soil.”

As consumers show a desire to make thoughtful, eco-conscious purchases, this is the type of transparency many are now looking for.

It’s a growing practice in the beauty industry, too, where there’s a movement—no longer a trend—toward what many call “Mindful Beauty,” and brands and suppliers are striving to comply, not only with eco responsible packaging, but also with placing increased emphasis on the sustainable practices in place at their facilities.

As you’ll read in the show reviews in this issue—MakeUp in LosAngeles and Luxe Pack Los Angeles and Cosmoprof Bologna—global brand attendees were in hot pursuit of the latest in green packaging. But the conversations with exhibitors went much further, delving into Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) practices followed in headquarters offices, to the energy sources used for manufacturing, to the efficiency of the full supply chain.

This issue’s cover feature, “Sustainable Packaging: Why ‘Green’ Is on Everyone’s Lips” provides a look at some of the latest achievements, as cosmetic suppliers continue to innovate and develop new practices, materials and processes that are emerging to meet responsible criteria.

If you’re attending Luxe Pack New York, please join us for Beauty Packaging’s panel, “Sustainable Packaging: The New Conversation,” on Wednesday May 15, 4 pm – 5 pm. Speakers will include Sarah Jindal, senior global analyst, Innovation and Insights, Beauty & Personal Care, Mintel; Allan Hafkin, VP Global Packaging Design at The Estee Lauder Companies; Aida Rodriguez, Environmental Manager, Virospack; and Leilanie Bruce, project manager and healthy materials specialist at Brightworks Sustainability.

As environmentally responsible solutions continue to evolve—and as the Mindful Beauty conversation continues—we look forward to hearing your thoughts and seeing your favorite examples. Please email me at [email protected].

We hope you enjoy this issue.