Finnish cosmetics company Lumene and Finnish material innovation startup Sulapac have collaborated on a pilot project to package two of Lumene’s most popular skincare products Nordic-C [VALO] Glow Reveal moisturiser and Nordic Hydra [LAHDE] Intense Hydration 24H moisturiser.
After four years of scientific development and testing, consumers will be able to experience their favorite moisturiser packaged in an innovative jar made of industrially compostable material that does not harm the environment and is manufactured sustainably.
The products will be packaged in Sulapac jars made from FSC-certified (FSC C158142) wood chips from industrial side streams and plant-based materials. The inner lining of the jar consists of the world’s first barrier technology for cosmetics made of industrially compostable material that protects the sensitive cosmetic product and, in contact with natural microbes, eventually falls apart without leaving traces behind.
Essi Arola, Head of Research and Development, Packaging at Lumene said, “Up until now, the main challenge of using bio-based material in jars has been the fast evaporation of moisture, which is why it hasn’t been deemed a workable solution for water-based cosmetics. Through this pilot, we are making an investment towards the future of innovation in the cosmetics industry.”
Originating from the Nordic country known for its pristine nature, both Lumene and Sulapac routinely use side stream materials from other industries in the manufacturing of their products.
Cloudberry seed oil and cloudberry seed extract are some of the ingredients used in several products in Lumene’s skincare collections. Growing naturally in the delicate and protected swamp environments of Finland, the berries must always be collected by hand for commercial or private use.
“We obtain cloudberry oil from the press cake leftover in berry juice production from several local companies. It brings a significant sustainability advantage: the berries don’t have to be picked just to supply the cosmetics company. By using side streams, we also promote local partnerships and reduce waste,” elaborated Arola.
“We have utilised ingredients developed from side streams of the food and forest industries in our production for two decades already, and our ambition is to become carbon neutral by 2025,” said Arola.
The design philosophy of Sulapac is to mimic nature – similarly to a same-size piece of wood left on the forest floor, Sulapac jars can be digested by naturally occurring microorganisms and break down into carbon dioxide, water and biomass, leaving no traces behind.
The products will be available internationally on Lumene’s online store and in selected stores in Finland.