The Implications of the Evolving Microplastics Legislation: An Analysis of the Cosmetics Industry Statements

Abstract

Objectives

The main objective of this study was to find out the effects of the changing microplastics legislation regarding the cosmetics industry. In addition to this, other goals of this bachelor’s thesis were to map out the current legislative situation of microplastics and the possible implications of the use of microplastics.

Summary

The statements of 26 cosmetics companies were analyzed by using a value proposition framework, which consists of the current position, future opportunities, and missed value opportunities. Through this analysis, a look into the industry of cosmetics is provided regarding the issue of microplastics. However, the data suggests that companies took a more voluntary approach to the issue and no common theme of mentioning the legislative changes as a cause of the microbead policies was found. Additionally, the study observed that microplastics have multiple definitions in use, which complicates the issue. When using the overall term of microplastics no similar voluntary approach to removing them was found.

Conclusions

No definite connection between the legislative changes and the changes in microbead policies could be detected from the statements made by the companies. However, other motives like environmental sustainability and consumer preferences were observed to be described as motives.