Sustainable Cosmetics Summit

I just spent two days at the Sustainable Cosmetics Summit in New York. Topics at the Summit included: biodiversity, ethical sourcing of ingredients, legislation for safe cosmetics, marketing green beauty products, sustainable packaging, and the range of organic certifications. While there was a lot of grim news on the current state of the beauty industry and its impact on our health and the environment, I feel encouraged by the commitment and innovation of the companies, large and small, who were in the room. From corporate behemoths like P&G, to green beauty leaders like Dr. Hauschka and Pangea, to small independent brands (like Kahina), the message was clear. We need to set clear goals for a healthy and diverse ecosystem and be true to these values. As Wiilliam McDonough, the exuberant and brilliant architect and designer, expressed so well: "I believe we can accomplish great and profitable things within a new conceptual framework-one that values our legacy, honors diversity, and feeds ecosystems and societies."