In a world where microplastics have become a major problem, microplastic-free care brands are joining forces to improve the industry and help consumers make conscious choices. Weleda, Lekker Company, Marcel's Green Soap, Naïf, Smyle, and Witlof join forces with the Plastic Soup Foundation to promote transparency and emphasize the importance of microplastic-free products.
Big impact
Microplastics are in 9 out of 10 care products, which not only pollutes nature but can also be harmful to both humans and animals. The Plastic Soup Foundation highlights the devastating impact of microplastics on our planet and our well-being. According to a recent study by ZonMW , microplastics pose a serious threat not only to the environment but also to human health: "It shows that small plastic particles can cross the intestinal wall, lungs, placenta and even the blood-brain barrier They also appear to disrupt the functioning of these various body cells. Inflammatory reactions sometimes occur."
Maria Westerbos, founder of the Plastic Soup Foundation, emphasizes the importance of this initiative: "That is precisely why microplastic-free brands' own initiatives are so important. This way we can together show consumers, industry and politicians that microplastics are not necessary. These brands prove that.”
Hanna Verboom dives into the small letters
Hanna Verboom, ambassador of this campaign, fully supports a future without microplastics. She wants to make consumers aware of the small print on products. "It's time to look beyond the beautiful packaging and complicated marketing language," says Hanna Verboom. "Together with the microplastic-free brands, we have made a statement. In an Etos, all packaging is placed in such a way that you do not see the nice marketing terms on the front, but rather the small letters where the real story is hidden."
Changing the industry together
The joint campaign aims to increase transparency in the industry and the importance of the ingredient list. Collaborations with platforms such as Bol will put microplastic-free brands in the spotlight, while the Beat the Microbead app helps consumers read that fine print.
“This is more than just a campaign; it's the start of a bigger movement,” said a representative of the participating brands. “We want to encourage consumers to look beyond pretty packaging and complicated words. It's time to discover the real story hidden on the back of care products.”
By acting together, participating brands believe they can drive positive change and blaze a trail for an industry that embraces openness and sustainability. With the support of consumers and partners such as the Plastic Soup Foundation, they look forward to a future in which microplastics no longer have a place in our care products.
Meet the other brands
Naive
When Jochem and Sjoerd became fathers for the first time in 2013, they discovered that baby care was full of harmful ingredients. They thought this had to be different, and so Naïf was born. Nowadays they carry an extensive range of care products for young and old.
WELEDA
You may already know WELEDA, the oldest brand in the list. Weleda's 100% natural care products have been a household name for over 100 years. The brand is committed to holistic cosmetics that are in harmony with people and nature. From face cream to foot balm, completely microplastic-free!
The Lekker Company
From DIY to successful company. Founder Dewi started making deodorant from her own kitchen 10 years ago. She got that inspiration from Pinterest. Gradually she learned more and more about the cosmetics industry and sustainability became an important part of the company. And now you can find her deodorant, now the second largest natural deodorant brand in the Netherlands, in the store.
Smyle
Brushing your teeth without microplastics? That may sound logical, but it is not so obvious at all. Time for a change, thought founder Almar. And with success, because Smyle toothpaste tabs are not only completely plastic-free, but are also the first on the market that you can simply refill in a glass jar. So no more plastic tubes!
Chicory Skincare
Witlof Skincare was founded by friends Cis and Caroline. Originated from the need to create more awareness and clarity about healthy skin care, for your skin and for nature. And that of course means no microplastics, but only ingredients that the skin can actually use.
