#Japan #Osaka #Sustainable Design #Osaka Expo #POLA Orbis

Reimagining Cosmetic Waste at the Osaka Kansai Expo

The Osaka Kansai Expo, a hub for innovation and sustainability, has become the stage for POLA Orbis Group’s latest initiative aimed at tackling plastic waste in the cosmetics industry. POLA Kasei, a subsidiary overseeing research, development, and production, has installed benches made from recycled plastics derived from cosmetic containers, specifically in the vicinity of the innovative toilet facility known as 'Shima no Shinkirō'. This installation goes beyond aesthetics; it serves as a living laboratory where visitors can interact with and experience the potential of recycled materials in everyday products.

Transforming Waste into Opportunity

The decision to utilize recycled plastic from cosmetic containers is a forward-thinking strategy that anticipates a future where these materials are repurposed into a variety of products. By engaging visitors directly, POLA Orbis aims to collect valuable insights into the use of recycled plastics in daily applications. This initiative demonstrates the multifaceted role of design in product sustainability and opens up discussions on eco-friendly practices within the cosmetics sector.

Bench Specifications and Collaborations

The benches are made from a blend of materials, including PET sourced from skincare product containers and sustainably harvested wood. Designed in partnership with VOID Inc., a company known for its expertise in 3D printing, each bench configuration marries cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices. Visitors will find two distinct designs that reflect the company’s commitment to aesthetics and functionality:

• - Design 1: SKIN - This design draws inspiration from the intricate structure of human skin, aiming to capture its texture and inviting visitors to explore tactile experiences.

• - Design 2: EMULSION - Reflecting the principles of cosmetic emulsification, this bench highlights the balance required to create products that are both effective and pleasant to use.

Sustainable Goals and Future Implications

POLA Orbis has a long-standing history of prioritizing sustainability, having started initiatives around refillable containers as early as 1985. The benches at the 2025 Osaka Expo represent an extension of this commitment, aiming to gather data on the long-term durability and performance of recycled materials exposed to natural elements such as UV rays and rain. The company’s collaboration with various artists and brands for initiatives like the 'Plastic Revives Exhibition' reinforces their dedication to exploring the innovative potential of recycled plastics in both functional and artistic expressions.

As nations and industries grapple with the challenge of reducing plastic waste and fostering a circular economy, this initiative places POLA Orbis at the forefront of change. The company not only promotes environmentally responsible practices but also encourages cultural appreciation through artful design.

Visitor Experience and Community Engagement

During the expo, visitors are encouraged to engage with the benches, providing real-time feedback that may shape the future of recycled materials in consumer products. This interaction serves as a catalyst for discussions around sustainability and shared responsibility in resource management. By utilizing public spaces creatively, POLA Orbis inspires others to rethink waste and consider possibilities for reusing materials in everyday life.

A Bright Future for Sustainable Design

Looking ahead, POLA Orbis aims to compile insights from this unique application of recycled plastics. The data collected will inform their ongoing research and development efforts, contributing significantly to product innovation within the beauty industry. Through this initiative at the Osaka Kansai Expo, POLA Orbis strives not only to enhance the sustainability of their products but also to inspire stakeholders and consumers alike to embrace a more circular economy.

With the world watching, the benches symbolize a blend of art, functionality, and a commitment to sustainable practices, paving the way for the cosmetics industry to lead in environmental stewardship while appealing to the senses of its consumers.