Below are key directives and regulations that cosmetic suppliers should take into account:
Regulation (EU) No 655/2013 on Common Criteria for Claims
This regulation outlines requirements for cosmetic product claims, ensuring that they are truthful, not misleading, and substantiated by scientific evidence. Suppliers must comply with these criteria to build consumer trust and avoid legal repercussions.
Directive 2005/29/EC on Unfair Commercial Practices
While primarily aimed at consumer protection, this directive regulates misleading advertising practices. It requires that all promotional claims, including those about environmental benefits, be accurate and verifiable, ensuring that consumers make informed choices.
Green Claims Directive (Proposal COM(2021) 118 final)
This proposed directive aims to provide a framework for verifying environmental claims made by any business, including cosmetic suppliers. As it seeks to tackle greenwashing, suppliers must be prepared to substantiate any green claims made about their products.
Directive 2014/42/EU on Aerosol Dispensers
This directive regulates the marketing and use of aerosol products, ensuring they are safe for consumers and the environment. Compliance requires suppliers to ensure proper testing and labeling of aerosol dispensers to mitigate risks associated with pressurized containers.
Directive (EU) 2019/904 on Single-Use Plastics
This directive aims to reduce the impact of plastic pollution, specifically targeting certain single-use plastic items. Cosmetic suppliers should explore alternatives to plastic packaging and refillable options to comply with this directive and appeal to environmentally-conscious consumers.
Regulation (EU) 2022/128 on Deforestation-Free Products
This regulation requires companies to prove that products sold in the EU do not contribute to deforestation. Cosmetic suppliers must assess their supply chains, particularly for ingredients like palm oil, to maintain compliance and support biodiversity.
General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) (EU) 2016/679
While primarily focused on data protection, GDPR affects how businesses collect, store, and use consumer data. Cosmetic suppliers must ensure compliance to protect consumer privacy and avoid significant fines.
Packaging and Packaging Waste Directive (94/62/EC)
This directive sets requirements for the management of packaging waste, aiming to minimize its impact on the environment. Cosmetic suppliers need to comply with recycling and recovery targets for packaging materials, promoting sustainable practices.
Waste Framework Directive (2008/98/EC)
This directive lays down the principles of waste management, including recycling and recovery targets. It emphasizes the need for sustainable waste practices, which can affect how cosmetic suppliers handle product waste and packaging disposal.
EU Ecolabel Regulation (EC) No 66/2010
This regulation establishes the criteria for awarding the EU Ecolabel to products that meet high environmental standards. Cosmetic suppliers seeking to market their products as eco-friendly can benefit from obtaining this label, enhancing their attractiveness to consumers focused on sustainability.
