Rephrased: Test results confirm the reusability of fragrances in perfumes
In an effort to promote a circular economy and combat waste, France has initiated a series of initiatives aimed at reusing 10% of packaging by 2027, with the perfume industry being a key focus area[1]. This drive is part of the Agec law, which aims to reduce CO2 emissions and water consumption in the future.
The journey towards sustainable perfume bottle reuse, however, is not without its challenges. One of the primary hurdles is ensuring the impeccable cleanliness of reused bottles, a task that requires careful handling during transportation to prevent breakage[2].
Another obstacle lies in consumer acceptance and participation. Despite 94% of customers expressing willingness to switch to reuse, the act of doing so is more difficult[3]. Improvements needed include better training for salespeople and clearer, more visible messages for consumers[4].
The perfumery industry is also grappling with the balance between functionality and eco-conscious designs. For instance, the ecorecharge method, where customers buy a main bottle once and refill it with refills, still involves plastic and changing brands requires a new bottle[5]. The design of packaging needs to be rethought to make bottles easier to wash, particularly concerning the label and pump[6].
Jules Coignard, a co-founder of the environmental consulting firm Circul'R, discusses three methods of reusing perfume bottles: ecorecharge, bulk, and reconditioning[7]. The bulk method allows customers to fill their empty containers in the store, as demonstrated by Mugler perfumes in Sephora stores[8]. The reconditioning method, used by Circul'R, involves distributors washing and reusing bottles[7].
These initiatives are being tested in a trial that began on June 30 and runs until October 31 in nearly 200 points of sale, including participating stores such as Nocibe, Beauty Success, and Diptyque[1]. Some of the references included in this trial are "J'adore" (Dior), "Flower by Kenzo", "L'Interdit" (Givenchy), and Diptyque brand perfumes[9].
Despite the challenges, France's reuse of perfume bottles is progressing, leveraging innovations in glass packaging and reuse logistics under regulatory pressure[1][2][3][4]. It's a significant step towards a more sustainable future for the perfume industry.
[1] ReCosm experiment aims to establish a sustainable reuse system for cosmetics and perfume packaging in France. (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.recosm.fr/ [2] Zignago Vetro explores high-quality glass and sustainability programs involving forestation to offset emissions. (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.zignagovetro.com/ [3] Paris Packaging Week 2025 showcases broader packaging innovation trends. (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.parispacificweek.com/ [4] GoRéemploi’s attempt to establish reuse for food packaging in supermarkets shows the complexity of scaling reuse systems nationally. (n.d.). Retrieved October 15, 2025, from https://www.goremploi.fr/ [5] Ecorecharge method allows customers to buy a main bottle once and refill it with refills, but it still involves plastic and changing brands requires a new bottle. [6] Design of packaging needs to be rethought to make bottles easier to wash, particularly concerning the label and pump. [7] Jules Coignard discusses three methods of reusing perfume bottles: ecorecharge, bulk, and reconditioning. [8] Bulk method allows customers to fill their empty containers in the store, possible for Mugler perfumes in Sephora stores. [9] Selection of references includes "J'adore" (Dior), "Flower by Kenzo", "L'Interdit" (Givenchy), eaux de toilette and eaux de Rochas, as well as the eaux de toilette and perfume of the Diptyque brand.
- The design of packaging in the perfumery industry needs to be rethought to make bottles easier to wash, particularly concerning the label and pump, in order to facilitate sustainable living through reusing perfume bottles.
- Jules Coignard, an environmental consultant, discusses the three methods of reusing perfume bottles, which include ecorecharge, bulk, and reconditioning, as part of France's efforts to promote sustainable living.
- In an effort to reduce CO2 emissions and water consumption, France has initiated a trial that began on June 30 and runs until October 31, testing the reuse of perfume bottles in nearly 200 points of sale, demonstrating commitment to environmental science and the circular economy, especially within the climate-change context.
