Eastman and Kolmar Korea team up for Sustainable Cosmetic packaging
This move aligns with rising K-beauty innovation and global shifts toward renewable ingredients like tree-derived cellulose and biodegradable polymers.
SOUTH KOREA – Eastman and Kolmar Korea have formed a strategic partnership to pioneer sustainable personal care innovations through biodegradable materials, addressing pressing industry demands for eco-friendly alternatives to microplastics.
The memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed on January 22, 2026, between Eastman’s executive vice president, Travis Smith, and Kolmar Korea’s R&D vice president, Han Sang-keun.
Han Sang-keun, vice president and chief technology officer, Kolmar Holdings, praised on the partnership, stating, “Through our products and brands, we continue to offer differentiated beauty solutions that integrate cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices, which is what makes Esmeri a great fit for our portfolio.”
“We are excited to collaborate with Eastman to combine their unique technology with our global consumer insights and deep expertise in K-beauty to accelerate sustainable growth for both companies.”
This collaboration centers on Eastman’s Esmeri technology, particularly the Esmeri CC1N10 cellulose ester micropowder derived from 63% sustainable wood pulp, which meets OECD 301B biodegradability guidelines and complies with EU Regulation (EU2023/2055) on synthetic polymer microparticles.
The initiative targets color cosmetics like lipsticks, foundations, and powders, enhancing spreadability, adhesion, and longevity while replacing non-degradable microplastics.
Esmeri CC1N10 breaks down naturally, helping brands navigate tightening global regulations in markets like North America and Europe, where microplastic bans are accelerating.
Travis Smith emphasized Esmeri’s role in balancing performance, stating, “Esmeri is a key solution to challenges that brands face today in meeting regulatory requirements and rising consumer demands for innovative products that continue to deliver exceptional performance.”
Kolmar Korea plans to integrate these materials across its product lines, leveraging its end-to-end manufacturing and global reach to scale adoption and boost client competitiveness in sustainable beauty.
The partnership may expand to Eastman’s wider personal care portfolio, covering skin, sun, hair care, and fragrances.
Meanwhile, the global K‑beauty market is currently valued at around USD 16.3 billion (2025) and is projected to grow rapidly, reaching between USD 20–21 billion by 2035, with annual growth rates of 6–11%, according to a report by Global Market Insights.
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