Packaging Innovation Takes Center Stage
Kolmar Korea’s eco-friendly packaging initiatives are drawing significant attention. In 2020, the company launched a paper-tube container; the first of its kind in the industry to achieve commercial viability that reduces plastic usage by approximately 80%, supports easy separation of paper and plastic, and withstands more than 50 kg of weight.
In 2023, Kolmar introduced a paper-stick format made with mineral paper – slashing plastic use by roughly 86% and enabling full product access through a peel-away layered construction.
Most recently, in April 2025, the company unveiled a one-hand-pump paper pack inspired by milk-carton geometry: fully recyclable, pump-enabled, and designed to satisfy both user convenience and eco-criteria.
These breakthroughs have been recognized globally: the paper tube and paper stick secured top accolades at the industry’s three major design contests (IDEA, iF Design Award and Red Dot award), and the one-hand-pump paper pack has also been honored with a Red Dot award this year.
Sustainable Formulations & Materials
Beyond packaging, Kolmar Korea is re-thinking raw materials and product formulations. In 2022, the company developed an eco-friendly extraction method using sunflower, lingonberry and starflower that cut carbon emissions by 83% while increasing efficacy of active ingredients by 870%. That method was applied in its 2023 clean-beauty sunscreen and received “Green Technology Product” certification from Korea’s Ministry of Environment.
In the same year, the company swapped microplastics in its color-cosmetics line for natural silica (known for pore care and sebum control) – improving both performance and environmental footprint.
Low-Carbon Manufacturing & Zero-Waste Goals
Kolmar Korea is also advancing its green manufacturing agenda. It joined the K-RE100 initiative in 2022, committing to 100% use of renewable energy by 2050. At its key Sejong plant, solar-facility expansions in 2023 cut around 143 tons of CO2 emissions.
The company has also established a dedicated division aiming for zero landfill waste, steadily reducing landfill rates and enhancing recycling via systematic management.
Global Recognition
The holistic efforts have earned international acclaim. In 2024, TIME ranked Kolmar Korea No. 125 on its “World’s Best Companies for Sustainable Growth 2025” list – and notably, it was the only Korean-beauty firm to make the list.
Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/kolmar-korea-advances-clean-beauty-with-breakthroughs-from-eco-friendly-packaging-to-rd-302556006.html