Schwan Cosmetics, a leading German cosmetics firm and provider to numerous beauty brands, launched new sustainable packaging materials that are free from styrene as well as acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS). The development will help enable beauty firms to proactively achieve compliance with strict European Union (EU) regulations on single-use plastics and improve recyclability by 2030.
The new packaging incorporates its patent-pending FLX-Technology, which replaces traditional ABS and styrenics with recyclable polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP).
Custom-designed for cosmetic pencils, FLX-Technology promises to preserve product integrity—volatile compositions included—without sacrificing aesthetic appeal or cost effectiveness. Schwan Cosmetics has also recently been awarded the EcoVadis Platinum Medal and is now part of the top 1% of companies awarded for sustainability management system leadership. This certification represents the firm’s dedication to openness and sustainability in practices in environment, labour, ethics, and procurement.
The move is in response to mounting regulatory pressure from the EU’s Single-Use Plastics Directive that mandates all packaging that is sold in the EU to be reusable or recyclable by 2030 with binding recycled content targets. The regulations have implications across global supply chains because exporters to the EU must meet tough design and recyclability requirements.
Moreover, retailer green policies and the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework create financial incentives for brands to transition away from hard-to-recycle materials. The sustainable packaging of FLX-Technology preserves existing designs, functionality, and brand sense without requiring costly changes to artwork, tooling, or filling machinery. Schwan reports the material as being up to 92% recyclable, with other parts like PBT used only where mechanical stiffness is essential.
“Our message is clear: Don’t wait,” said Corinna Zeidler, director of brand management. “Companies that want to stay compliant and competitive must act now. Recyclates will be in high demand, but short supply, so strategic partnerships that enable seamless integration of regulation-compliant materials are key.”
“Our mission is to make sustainability affordable, scalable, and competitive for all customers across all markets,” said CEO Tomás Espinosa. Sandra Schäfer, director of research & development, added, “With FLX Technology, we are proving that sustainable packaging does not require compromises; it offers the same reliability and premium experience brands and consumers expect.” Sandra further stated, “The look and feel of the packaging remains completely unchanged. There’s no need for modifications to format, geometry, or weight due to the shift in materials.”
The new packaging is made from up to 92% recyclable materials and contains no styrene. The remaining materials, such as polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), are utilised exclusively where mechanical performance is required, such as in lead holders or sharpeners.