Urban Resource Group Upcycles Ocean Plastic into Lush Cosmetic Containers
Urban Resource Group, a division of Canada Fibers Ltd., has partnered with the global cosmetics company Lush to repurpose ocean-bound plastic into sustainable cosmetic containers. This forward-thinking initiative addresses marine pollution while supporting circular economy practices, reinforcing Canada Fibers’ commitment to innovative environmental solutions.
Addressing the Ocean Plastic Crisis
Millions of tons of plastic waste end up in our oceans each year, posing severe threats to marine ecosystems. Rather than allowing that material to go to waste, Urban Resource Group has created a model that converts ocean plastic into valuable consumer packaging.
Plastic collected from marine environments is carefully sorted, cleaned, and processed to create durable cosmetic-grade containers for Lush. This effort not only reduces environmental impact but also demonstrates the viability of large-scale plastic recovery and reuse.
Learn more about the broader mission behind these efforts by visiting Company History.
How the Upcycling Process Works
At the Urban Polymers facility, the ocean-bound plastic goes through a multi-stage transformation:
- It is sorted by polymer type and thoroughly decontaminated.
- The plastic is then processed into high-quality resin pellets.
- These pellets are used to manufacture new packaging, such as Lush’s signature cosmetic pots.
This process demonstrates how recycled materials can re-enter the manufacturing chain, minimizing the need for virgin plastic production.
Why Lush Chose Urban Resource Group
Lush has a long-standing reputation for ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility. The decision to source containers from Urban Resource Group supports Lush’s sustainability goals by offering:
- A local, traceable source of recycled plastic
- A reduced carbon footprint compared to international plastic supply chains
- A functional, stylish container that meets quality and durability standards
The partnership showcases how global brands can integrate environmental practices into their supply chains through collaboration with specialized recyclers.
Canada Fibers and the Circular Economy
This initiative is part of Canada Fibers’ wider approach to sustainable innovation. Other environmentally-driven projects include Urban Biofuels, which converts recycled wood fiber into fuel, and Urban Mining, which focuses on recovering materials from post-consumer waste streams.
Through these efforts, Canada Fibers contributes to a regenerative economy where resources are reused instead of discarded.
Recommended Video
Watch how Lush is helping close the loop on plastic waste with ocean plastic packaging:
How We Recycle Ocean Plastic Into Pots
A Sustainable Solution for a Global Problem
The upcycling of ocean plastic into cosmetic containers is a clear example of how private-sector partnerships can support long-term environmental progress. By working with Canada Fibers Ltd. and its affiliates, Lush is helping redefine what sustainability looks like in product packaging.
This collaboration represents a larger commitment to innovation, transparency, and responsible materials management—principles that are embedded throughout Canada Fibers’ service lines and divisions.
