Once you started being conscious about carbon emissions, you must have asked yourself a question - 

how much carbon emissions are in 1 plastic shampoo bottle?

The amount of carbon emissions associated with producing one plastic shampoo bottle depends on several factors, including the size of the bottle, the type of plastic used, the manufacturing process, and the source of energy used during production.

However, it's estimated that producing a single plastic bottle for shampoo generates 0.15 pounds (0.07 kg) of carbon dioxide equivalent (CO2e)*. This figure takes into account the energy used to extract, refine, and transport the raw materials, as well as the energy used to manufacture the bottle, fill it with product, and transport it to the store.

It's important to note that the carbon emissions associated with a plastic shampoo bottle don't stop once the bottle is produced. The emissions continue as the bottle is used, transported, and eventually disposed of.

For example, the carbon emissions associated with shipping a bottle of shampoo from the manufacturer to the retailer, and from the retailer to the consumer, can add significantly to the overall carbon footprint of the product.

Switching to using shampoo bars, which generate less waste and require less energy to produce, is one way to reduce the carbon emissions associated with your personal care products.

What are the carbon footprint emissions in shampoo bars?

The carbon footprint of a shampoo bar also depends on a wide range of factors, including the ingredients used, the manufacturing process, the source of energy used, and the transportation and packaging.

However, in general, shampoo bars have a lower carbon footprint compared to liquid shampoo in plastic bottles. This is because shampoo bars are typically made with fewer ingredients, are concentrated and have a longer lifespan, which reduces the overall amount of resources used. Additionally, shampoo bars being  packaged in minimal, biodegradable materials, it also reduces the amount of waste generated.

It's worth noting that the carbon footprint of a shampoo bar can vary depending on the specific product and its ingredients. Some shampoo bars use palm oil (which we don't use at Solidamie), which is a controversial ingredient due to its impact on the environment, including deforestation and greenhouse gas emissions.

To minimize the carbon footprint of your shampoo, it's important to look for products made with sustainably sourced, plant-based ingredients and packaged in environmentally friendly materials. Additionally, choosing products from companies that prioritise environmentally conscious practices, such as using renewable energy sources, can help reduce the carbon footprint of your personal care products.

*In comparison, on average, the production of a single use plastic water bottle is estimated to generate approximately 0.02 kg of CO2 emissions.