SGD Pharma has launched glass bottles containing 20% post-consumer recycled (PCR) glass cullet.

The PCR glass bottles were manufactured at its Zhanjiang, China plant, and offer sustainability by reducing the use of virgin raw materials and carbon emissions thanks to less energy consumption during the melting process.

This provides cosmetics brands with a more sustainable primary packaging option which will contribute to reducing their Scope 3 emissions.

The PCR glass manufacturing is a part of SGD Pharma’s company-wide goal to reduce its carbon footprint globally by 35% in 2030 and by 65% in 2040 (Scope 1&2) compared to 2020 results and to achieve the 1.5°C SBTi trajectory to which SGD Pharma is committed.

FEVE – The Federation of European manufacturers of glass containers – states that on average, a 10% increase of cullet in the furnace decreases its energy use by 3% and CO2 emissions by 5%.

All the PCR cullet used at Zhanjiang plant undergoes testing before and after entering the furnace to ensure purity and clarity of the glass.

The resulting PCR glass bottles maintain the same levels of aesthetic quality, functionality and safety (with the absence of heavy metals and other prohibited materials) as conventional glass bottles, while simultaneously being more environmentally friendly.

Frédéric Barbier, General Manager China and APAC, said: For the past ten years, the cosmetic glass industry in Europe has used PCR glass as standard and has experienced a reduction in its carbon footprint as a result.

“Sourcing compliant PCR glass cullet in China is a challenge which is why we’re proud to be the first beauty and pharmaceutical glass maker in China to launch a PCR campaign that complies with international standards.

“We look forward to a second campaign in coming months with plans to implement regular PCR campaigns in 2025 to answer demand for sustainable packaging in the cosmetics and beauty industry.”