According to Cosmetics Business, UK luxury department store group, Selfridges, has pledged to eliminate all plastic-based cosmetic glitter from its shelves by 2021 in a bid to reduce plastic pollution.
Over the next 12 months, the brands that sell products through Selfridges containing plastic glitter will be working to remove these collections. Many Selfridges-sold brands, however, are already free from plastic-based glitter, including Benefit, Lancôme, IT Cosmetics and Christian Louboutin Beauty.
But with glitter being a more unknown single-use plastic, it has gained a reputation as the ‘hidden microplastic.’ In fact, figures by One Poll discovered that almost 64% of UK residents are unaware that glitter contains single-use plastic. Upon learning this fact, 63% said they are less likely to purchase said cosmetics in the future, with over half believing that micro-plastic containing glitter should be banned or reformulated.
“As we continue to see the devastating and irreversible impact of single-use plastics on marine life, we are committed to reducing Selfridges’ plastic footprint,” Selfridges director of sustainability, Daniella Vega, said. ”By removing all microplastic glitter products from our beauty offer, we hope to inspire our customers, suppliers, and fellow retailers to act responsibly, seek alternatives, and make positive change.”
Selfridges head of beauty, Melissa McGinnis, added: “Beauty is a feel-good industry, so it is important to us that by being transparent, taking steps towards reducing unnecessary plastics and offering alternatives, our customers can also feel good by making informed and responsible buying decisions.”
The move is the latest step in Selfridges’ sustainability plan for a better future. Since launching Project Ocean in 2011, the group has been committed to creating awareness and change via retail activism. Over the years, it has banned plastic carrier bags, products containing plastic microbeads, fur, plastic straws, exotic skins, single-use baby wipes and more.
