Transition to Green Cosmetics: An Analysis on Plastic Waste, Certification, and Ethical Consumption

While the cosmetics industry continues its global economic growth, it increasingly faces criticism due to its environmental impacts. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the sector’s role in plastic waste generation, sustainable production practices, changes in consumer behavior, and the rise of vegan cosmetics trends. According to recent data from the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the World Economic Forum, the cosmetics sector is responsible for approximately 8% of global plastic waste, and only about 9% of its packaging is effectively recycled. In this context, organic and vegan-based products have come to the forefront of sustainable production processes, while leading companies such as L’Oréal and Procter & Gamble have set targets for recyclable packaging. Consumer behavior data from Nielsen (2019) indicate that 75% of consumers prefer environmentally friendly products, and the vegan cosmetics market is projected to reach a value of 35 billion USD by 2030 with an annual growth rate of 10–15%. The study proposes policy recommendations aimed at strengthening public-private sector collaborations, expanding transparent certification systems, and developing sustainability campaigns to enhance consumer awareness. The findings offer valuable guidance for both academic and industrial stakeholders aiming to reduce the environmental footprint of the cosmetics industry.