Lumene announced it will be using Sulapac jars made from FSC-certified wood chips and plant-based materials to package its Nordic-C Valo Glow Reveal moisturizer and Nordic Hydra Lähde Intense Hydration 24H moisturizer. The inner lining of the jar uses industrially compostable material to provide a barrier that protects cosmetic products and eventually dissolves after contact with natural microbes.
Related: PCR Mono-Material Revolution: Packages That Tell Your Sustainability Story
Sulapac jars can be digested by naturally occurring microorganisms and then break down into carbon dioxide, water and biomass, leaving no traces behind, according to the company.
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.”
Suvi Haimi, Ph.D., CEO and co-founder of Sulapac, said, “Lumene is an iconic Finnish brand with ambition for international expansion. Our philosophies of respecting natural resources and a strong science-based approach complement each other very well. Sulapac’s mission is to together save the world from plastic waste, and we need like-minded, purpose-driven brands and companies to join us on this journey. Powerful brands also pressure decision-makers to invest in laws and regulations, which support the widespread development and adoption of sustainable solutions replacing plastics.”
Lumene’s Nordic-C Valo Glow Reveal moisturizer and Nordic Hydra Lähde Intense Hydration 24H moisturizer are available internationally on Lumene’s website and in selected stores in Finland.