The Ugly side of Beauty

One of the project's core objectives was to raise awareness about the life cycle and environmental impacts of personal care products. We sought to learn from businesses that have integrated green ...

One of the project's core objectives was to raise awareness about the life cycle and environmental impacts of personal care products. We sought to learn from businesses that have integrated green models into their operations, addressing not only packaging but also waste management protocols and eco-friendly ingredients. This knowledge was intended to be transferable to future students and apprentices in beauty and cosmetic occupations. Also, we aimed to strengthen VET mentors in the beauty sector by focusing on sustainability and green skills strategies. Teaching young people about environmental responsibility from an early age fosters a sense of stewardship for the planet.Key EU policies, such as the Green Deal and the EU Skills Agenda, highlight the importance of education in promoting environmental sustainability. By implementing this project, we sought to achieve several objectives: raise awareness (Increase understanding of the environmental impacts of cosmetics), reduce waste (Influence practices that lead to less waste generation in the beauty sector), empower educators (equip VET mentors with knowledge and strategies for sustainability).

There were 4 project activities: A1. Job Shadowing – Environmental Sustainability in VET; A2. Multiplier Workshops; A3. Training Programme - Sustainable Business Practice; A4. Green Booklet. The project also included management and dissemination activities. In A1, 6 representatives from partner organizations participated, gaining insights into the French VET system for beauty and cosmetic occupations and programs. The focus was on content related to ecology and environmental issues,specifically how these topics are approached through VET,curriculum design, and school activities. A2 involved the organization of 2 workshops to transfer knowledge from A1 to other VET mentor teachers involved in apprenticeships. Each workshop included at least 6 craftsmen/mentors.A3 focused on training where 6 mentors were introduced to sustainable business solutions from the Occitanie region, including ecological-oriented businesses, green marketing, packaging, products and ingredients in haircare and skincare products, as well as waste management in the beauty and cosmetic industry. The final activity, A4, was a summary of the project results in the form of a booklet that covered terminology related to environmental sustainability for VET schools.

Each project activity resulted with measurable and tangible outcomes and results: A1. 1 job shadowing programme; 6 participants’ individual reports; 1 short comparative analyses about vocational education in France and Croatia A2. 2 multiplier workshops programme, 1 recommendations and conclusions document A3. 1 “Sustainable business practice” training programme attended, 6 Certificates of attendance in training programme A4. 1 green booklet -5 partner meetings.