Global advocate for environmental consciousness and corporate responsibility, Mary Kay Inc has joined the Ellen MacArthur Foundation as a member of its network, as part of its commitment to becoming a more sustainable, circular business. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation is a UK-based charity that develops and promotes the idea of a circular economy, based on the principles of eliminating waste and pollution, keeping products and materials in use, and regenerating natural systems. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation works with business, academia, policymakers, and institutions to mobilise systems solutions at scale, globally.
"For nearly 60 years, Mary Kay has strived to enrich women’s lives, advance the field of skin health, and create a positive community impact around the world," said Deborah Gibbins, Chief Operations Officer at Mary Kay Inc. "The cosmetics and personal care industry is in transition as companies evolve to meet the growing demands for environmentally conscious, transparent operations and cleaner, ethically sourced products. We’re here for it."
Mary Kay, which is set to announce its sustainability strategy later this year, hopes to work with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and other Network organisations to further implement economy practices with a focus on materials sourcing. The company is committed to reducing its environmental footprint and is taking steps to improve efficiency in its operations, thinking long term to incorporate responsible business practices.
Mary Kay's global manufacturing facilities in China achieved zero waste-to-landfill status in 2014. The global manufacturing centre located in Texas, U.S.A., achieved the status in 2011.
"Mary Kay and the other new members of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation Network share an ambition to transform the way they do business," said Joe Murphy, Ellen MacArthur Foundation Network Lead. "We look forward to supporting them, and facilitating collaboration opportunities with other Network organisations, as they strive to become more circular."
"While there have been meaningful initiatives implemented throughout the beauty industry — and within Mary Kay itself — there is still so much work to be done to find long-term solutions to the environmental and socio-economic challenges ahead," added Gibbins. "That’s why we are so excited to be part of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation to join like-minded organisations in our efforts to ensure sustainable growth for generations to come."
