“At Lumson, we're proactively shaping our future with a foundation of sustainability and transparency”, says Nadia Valdameri

Lumson – one of the world’s leading manufacturers of packaging solutions for the cosmetics industry – has long demonstrated its unflinching commitment to enhancing its sustainability, not just through greener packaging solutions but also by adopting a company-wide, all-encompassing sustainability strategy. 

We spoke with Nadia Valdameri, Sustainability & ESG Manager - Group Quality Assurance Manager, about the company’s sustainability path and its future goals.

re/sources: What is your approach to or definition of sustainability, in particular for what concerns the ESG framework? 

Nadia Valdameri: Our company unites under a shared Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) mission that places high value on human dignity, ethical business practices, and protecting our planet. 

re/sources: What is your strategy in terms of sustainability? 

Nadia Valdameri: Lumson’s innovation commitment is strongly focused on developing products that meet sustainable criteria defined by a circular economy model. The eco-design principles applied by Lumson are aimed at minimising the use of virgin materials, favouring those coming from renewable sources, and considering the products’ end of life during the development phase, with the purpose of reducing waste by developing reusable options and introducing recycled content in the production process. The final goal is to create a virtuous and ideally closed production cycle with the least possible impact on the environment and on humans.

re/sources: Could you please talk about the so-called “3R”: Reduction, Rechargeable, Recyclable?

Nadia Valdameri: Reducing is a priority for Lumson. To increase the restitution rate and to make packaging more efficient, the Company eliminates the use of every unnecessary component and makes products lighter, increasing material efficiency. More refillable packaging will be added to Lumson's portfolio. All packaging is designed to be easy to use and with the entire product life cycle in mind. Lumson also aims at increasing the use of post-consumer recycled materials derived from mechanical and chemical recycling. At the same time, the Company will seek materials with high recyclability and phase out those that cannot be recycled in practice and at scale, such as thermoplastic resins.

re/sources: Can you tell us more about the concept “from cradle to gate” within the context of life cycle assessment? 

Nadia Valdameri: Lumson’s customers are constantly updated on its products’ sustainability achievements, including impact data calculated through our LCA. This information passes through the organisation instead of our suppliers, promoting transparency and accessibility.

re/sources: You started tracking your sustainability metrics before the law required you to do so. Why did you make this choice, and what do you believe this says about Lumson?

Nadia Valdameri: Our commitment is underscored by our proactive approach. We've updated our materiality analysis to encompass the ESG topics outlined in the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS), ensuring that our sustainability priorities align with emerging regulatory expectations. At Lumson, we're proactively shaping our future with a foundation of sustainability and transparency.

re/sources: Is Lumson actively promoting the wellbeing of its employees as well as its local community? In what ways?

Nadia Valdameri: Promoting inclusivity, equal opportunities, and fair treatment are key to creating a positive working environment. A company contributing to a non-inclusive and discriminatory work environment is likely to cause employee dissatisfaction and reduced retention, resulting in both economic and reputational repercussions. In addition, a diverse workforce is a functional corporate asset, as it welcomes multiple experiences and achieves a global perspective.

Local communities, too, play a key role in Lumson’s business and its relationship with the collectivity. The Company engages in the local community by participating in associations, events, and initiatives involving health, sports, and other cultural aspects. By building and maintaining these solid relationships, Lumson can improve its reputation and attract great talent.

re/sources: What are the three most crucial aspects of a sustainability journey for a company operating in your sector?  

Nadia Valdameri: Materials, people, and environment.