{"id":78051,"date":"2026-06-25T09:15:09","date_gmt":"2026-06-25T08:15:09","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/?p=78051"},"modified":"2026-04-29T15:21:24","modified_gmt":"2026-04-29T14:21:24","slug":"podcast-eco-packaging","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/podcast-eco-packaging\/","title":{"rendered":"Podcast 323: Beauty brands think about packaging last. Here&#8217;s why that&#8217;s a problem."},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Picture this: you\u2019ve done everything right. You\u2019ve chosen what you believe is eco packaging, carefully selected materials, and aligned your brand with sustainability values. But what if the packaging you\u2019re so proud of isn\u2019t as sustainable as you think?<\/p>\n<p>Truth is, packaging tends to be the last decision beauty founders make \u2013 squeezed in after formulation, branding and marketing. And yet, it plays a crucial role in a product\u2019s environmental footprint.<\/p>\n<p>In this eye-opening episode of <a href=\"https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/podcast\/\">Green Beauty Conversations<\/a>, Formula Botanica CEO Lorraine Dallmeier uncovers the uncomfortable truths behind eco packaging \u2013 and why good intentions don\u2019t always lead to lower-impact outcomes.<\/p>\n<p>She is joined by Jerome Fraillon, founder and CEO of <a href=\"https:\/\/alderpackaging.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Alder Packaging<\/a>, who shares what really happens behind the scenes of packaging design, manufacturing and disposal. His insights will challenge everything you thought you knew about sustainable packaging.<\/p>\n<p>From hidden recycling issues to misleading &#8220;eco&#8221; materials, this conversation exposes the gaps between perception and reality in eco beauty packaging \u2013 and shows you how to make better decisions moving forward.<\/p>\n<p>If you\u2019re a beauty entrepreneur, formulator or conscious consumer, this is an episode you can\u2019t afford to miss.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/Listen-here.png\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-medium wp-image-46912\" src=\"https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/Listen-here-300x150.png\" alt=\"Listen here\" width=\"300\" height=\"150\" srcset=\"https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/Listen-here-300x150.png 300w, https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/07\/Listen-here.png 500w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/a><br \/>\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" style=\"border: none;\" title=\"Libsyn Player\" src=\"\/\/html5-player.libsyn.com\/embed\/episode\/id\/41060875\/height\/90\/theme\/custom\/thumbnail\/yes\/direction\/backward\/render-playlist\/no\/custom-color\/87A93A\/\" width=\"100%\" height=\"90\" scrolling=\"no\" allowfullscreen=\"allowfullscreen\" data-mce-fragment=\"1\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; 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width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\"><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span>\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><span data-mce-type=\"bookmark\" style=\"display: inline-block; width: 0px; overflow: hidden; line-height: 0;\" class=\"mce_SELRES_start\">\ufeff<\/span><\/iframe><br \/>\n<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>&#8220;Most brands go straight to recyclability as their metric of success \u2013 but that\u2019s actually at the bottom of the waste hierarchy.&#8221; \u2014 Jerome Fraillon<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<h2 class=\"green\">In this episode with Jerome Fraillon, you will hear:<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Why packaging is often an afterthought:<\/strong> Most beauty brands start with a formulation, a story or a vision, leaving packaging decisions until the very end. Jerome explains how this approach creates problems, as packaging requires technical, logistical and sustainability considerations that need early planning. When rushed, brands often make decisions with limited knowledge and under time pressure, leading to unintended environmental consequences.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The complexity behind &#8220;sustainable&#8221; packaging:<\/strong> Sustainability in packaging isn\u2019t just about recyclability. Jerome breaks down the multiple dimensions of eco packaging, including material choice, refillability, reduction and sourcing. He highlights how brands tend to focus on what\u2019s visible \u2013 like recycling \u2013 while overlooking less obvious but equally important factors such as transportation and material reduction.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Common misconceptions about eco materials:<\/strong> From dark glass to bio-resins, Jerome shares examples of materials that appear sustainable but often aren\u2019t. He explains why tinted glass may not be recyclable and how plant-based plastics still behave like conventional plastics at end of life. These insights reveal how marketing claims can obscure the real environmental impact.<\/li>\n<li><strong>The truth about refillable packaging:<\/strong> Refillable systems are often seen as the gold standard, but their success varies widely by region. Jerome discusses why refillable packaging works well in some markets, particularly in Asia, but struggles in the US and Europe. He also explores consumer behaviour and infrastructure as key barriers to adoption.<\/li>\n<li><strong>What indie brands should do differently:<\/strong> For founders just starting out, Jerome shares practical advice on navigating packaging decisions. He stresses the importance of speaking directly with suppliers, attending trade shows and seeking expert guidance early. This approach helps avoid costly mistakes, such as choosing packaging that isn\u2019t compatible with a formulation.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 class=\"green\">Key takeouts:<\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Eco packaging is more complex than it looks:<\/strong> Eco packaging isn\u2019t defined by a single factor like recyclability. It involves a balance between material choice, production methods, transportation and end-of-life outcomes. Many brands oversimplify sustainability, focusing on visible cues rather than the full lifecycle.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Recycling is not the ultimate solution:<\/strong> Despite its prominence, recycling sits low on the waste hierarchy. Jerome explains that reduction and reuse should come first, yet most brands default to recyclability because it\u2019s familiar and visible. This mindset can lead to missed opportunities for more impactful changes, such as using less material or designing for refill systems.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Not all &#8220;green&#8221; materials are better:<\/strong> Materials like bio-resins or tinted glass can give the impression of sustainability without delivering real benefits. Bio-based plastics, for example, still degrade like conventional plastics and may compete with food resources. Similarly, certain glass types can\u2019t be recycled due to sorting limitations. Understanding these nuances is essential for making informed decisions.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Local sourcing can significantly reduce impact:<\/strong> Transportation plays a major role in packaging\u2019s environmental footprint. Shipping bulky packaging across continents unnecessarily increases emissions. Jerome highlights that sourcing packaging closer to the point of filling can be a simple yet powerful way to reduce impact, even if it requires compromising on design or aesthetics.<\/li>\n<li><strong>Early planning is critical for better outcomes:<\/strong> One of the biggest mistakes brands make is treating packaging as an afterthought. Integrating packaging decisions early in product development allows for better alignment between formulation, functionality and sustainability. This proactive approach reduces waste, avoids costly errors and leads to more effective eco packaging solutions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2>Meet our guest: Jerome Fraillon, founder and CEO of Alder Packaging<\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-thumbnail wp-image-78056 alignleft\" src=\"https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Jerome-Fraillon-150x150.png\" alt=\"\" width=\"150\" height=\"150\" srcset=\"https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Jerome-Fraillon-150x150.png 150w, https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Jerome-Fraillon-300x300.png 300w, https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Jerome-Fraillon-1024x1024.png 1024w, https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Jerome-Fraillon-768x768.png 768w, https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Jerome-Fraillon-250x250.png 250w, https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Jerome-Fraillon-672x672.png 672w, https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Jerome-Fraillon-1038x1038.png 1038w, https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Jerome-Fraillon-480x480.png 480w, https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/Jerome-Fraillon.png 1080w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 150px) 100vw, 150px\" \/>With over 20 years of experience in beauty packaging engineering, Jerome Fraillon is a recognised leader in sustainable packaging innovation. Prior to founding <a href=\"https:\/\/alderpackaging.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Alder Packaging<\/a>, he made far-reaching impacts on brands like Est\u00e9e Lauder, Smashbox, Coty and Victoria\u2019s Secret Beauty as an engineer and package developer before moving into a leadership role at one of the world\u2019s largest cosmetic packaging companies.<\/p>\n<p>In 2022, Jerome launched Alder with a mission to create personal care packaging that genuinely cares for the environment. As CEO, he leads a team of industry experts focused on guiding brands towards sustainable, forward-thinking packaging solutions.<\/p>\n<p>His ability to combine technical expertise with strategic vision has positioned Alder as a trusted partner for beauty brands worldwide.<\/p>\n<p><strong>Find out more about Jerome &amp; Alder Packaging:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Website: <a href=\"https:\/\/alderpackaging.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Alder Packaging<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Social media: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/withalder\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">@withalder<\/a><\/li>\n<li>LinkedIn: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.linkedin.com\/in\/jeromefraillon\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Jerome Fraillon<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><strong>Related episodes:<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Episode 225: <a href=\"https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/podcast-cosmetic-packaging-sustainable\/\">Can cosmetic packaging be sustainable?<\/a><\/li>\n<li>Episode 226:\u00a0<a href=\"https:\/\/formulabotanica.com\/podcast-recycle-ready\/\">The latest in greenwashing: \u201cRecycle-ready\u201d<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Discover the truth about eco packaging in beauty. Learn why \u201csustainable\u201d materials aren\u2019t always what they seem and how brands can make better packaging decisions.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":33,"featured_media":78064,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[198],"tags":[1612,569,1614,599,1611,728,1613,727,1615,698],"class_list":["post-78051","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-podcast","tag-alder-packaging","tag-beauty-packaging","tag-beauty-packaging-solutions","tag-cosmetic-packaging","tag-eco-packaging","tag-greenbeautyconversations","tag-jerome-fraillon","tag-lorrainedallmeier","tag-refillable-beauty-packaging","tag-sustainable-packaging"],"cp_meta_data":{"gravitec_meta_box_implemented":[""],"send_gravitec_push":[""],"classic-editor-remember":["classic-editor"],"_edit_lock":["1782242752:1905"],"_edit_last":["3022"],"rank_math_internal_links_processed":["1"],"rank_math_seo_score":["80"],"rank_math_primary_category":["198"],"rank_math_title":["Podcast 323: Beauty brands think about packaging last. 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