SGD Pharma became the first glass manufacturer in China to achieve ISO 14021 certification for its post-consumer recycled (PCR) glass packaging, marking a significant step forward in producing verified PCR glass for the cosmetics and beauty sectors. Issued by Bureau Veritas, this certification confirms SGD Pharma’s advanced sustainable production capabilities and helps international brands to meet the most demanding environmental standards.

PCR glass manufacturing is a central pillar of SGD Pharma’s decarbonization strategy, which aims to reduce Scope 1 & 2 emissions by 42% and Scope 3 emissions by 25% by 2030 (based on the year 2022). The integration of PCR glass directly contributes to this objective: according to the European Packaging Glass Federation (FEVE), each 10% increase in recycled cullet reduces energy consumption by 3% and CO 2 emissions by 5%. The certification confirms that SGD Pharma’s recent production campaign used between 18% and 35% of PCR content, measured in accordance with FEVE calculation standards.

"This certification is more than a key milestone; it demonstrates our commitment to drive the sustainable transition of glass packaging for cosmetics," says Frédéric Barbier, Managing Director Asia-Pacific at SGD Pharma. "By overcoming local supply constraints for high-quality PCR cullet in China, we are offering our partners a certified, low-carbon solution that is fully aligned with international standards."

Transparency and supply chain challenges

One of the main obstacles to PCR glass production in China is the supply of high-quality, compliant post-consumer cullet. SGD Pharma has implemented a rigorous, traceable and comprehensive sourcing and testing protocol to ensure the consistency and traceability of all its PCR productions.

Meet the growing demand for circular solutions

With regulations tightening and consumer interest in more sustainable packaging growing, beauty brands are actively seeking circular certified solutions. Certified PCR glass packaging is a reliable and transparent way for SGD Pharma partners to reduce their environmental footprint while moving towards a circular economy.

Measurable and verified sustainability

The ISO 14021 certification certifies that SGD Pharma’s environmental claims are based on solid evidence. It validates compliance with strict internal monitoring procedures and the application of FEVE guidelines for the control and verification of PCR glass used in production.

This success strengthens SGD Pharma’s position as a pioneer in sustainable glass packaging in China and a trusted partner of beauty brands worldwide.

Contacts

Sandra Hube, Directrice de la Communication Groupe
Tél. : +33 6 38 86 92 00
sandra.hube@sgdgroup.com

Rui Ding, Responsable Communication Asie-Pacifique
Tél. : +86 136 7890 6262
rui.ding@sgdgroup.com

About SGD Pharma

SGD Pharma is a global producer of moulded and tubular glass for primary pharmaceutical packaging. With more than a century of expertise, we offer exceptional quality packaging solutions for parenteral, oral and nasal products covering all therapeutic uses. Our customers worldwide benefit from the support of a network of over 90 agents and distributors, as well as a continuous flow of innovations from our five state-of-the-art ISO 15378-certified and GMP-compliant factories – a truly robust global industrial network.

* FEVE, Recycling: why glass always has a happy CO₂ ending.