A little bit of science and sustainability in the bathroom

Many of the science and climate technologies showcased on this blog relate to energy transition. For a change, this article is about a slightly different (maybe lighter?) topic. A number of small actions taken in our daily lives can have a large impact at scale. The ideas presented below may not solve the biggest problems related to carbon such as meat production, buildings, transportation, but are fun things to try at home, and can have some positive impact.

The equation to solve at home is simple: reducing environmental impact = reducing input + increasing use + reducing waste. A number would argue that increasing use is actually similar to reducing input and waste, but the topic of reusability is important in itself. 

Here are a few companies and technologies that support this framework - and use a bit of science, indeed.

• Reduce input: For household products, a very nice concept has emerged - “why transport water and plastic for household products?” Companies such as Blueland and Spring have figured a way to use (only) a dry detergent tablet so that you can fill your reusable bottle with water at home. There is also just the concentrated version (still more to carry than tablets), Branch Basics. On the disinfection side, Force of Nature offers a similar concept, but with the beauty of science on top: Salt, water and vinegar are converted to electrolyzed water when an electrical current changes the chemical composition of the solution into two new ingredients, hypochlorous acid and sodium hydroxide. You must admit, it is cool to have your own small electrolyzer at home.

For personal care, similar concepts have emerged. Given that shampoos contain close to 90% of water, shampoo bars have become popular for “not transporting water”; a good example is By Humankind, or water-activated power such as OWA haircare. 

Another trend of “clean beauty” is around simpler formulations - less input of complicated compounds. Simple, organic ingredients. Not having the scientific data in hand to compare the actual impacts of the different products, there is no specific recommendation here, except maybe this platform that is specialized in “clean beauty” products: Fachie Market. 

Side note, for fun - as a chemist I like to experiment, and started to create my own shampoo. Simple ingredients: castile soap, fresh aloe vera from leaves (you extract the gel), jojoba oil and water. It is actually a really nice product, very diluted - you realize you do not actually need the thick alternative!

• Increase use: this one is very intuitive. Avoid single use, increase reusability. NetZero Company is setting the bar fairly high on reusability of products. Not much science here but a cool concept nonetheless: reusable cotton rounds, ziplocs (in plastic or silicone), kitchen clothes (washable fabric vs. paper towels), food wraps or seals (washable), cups etc. For women, get rid of pads with Thinx.

• Reduce waste: Reducing packaging waste is #1 lever to reduce waste in the household. L’Oreal announced their first refillable skincare product in the Biotherm brand.This is a big deal, in terms of how much reach they can have and in their ability to be a trailblazer for other brands. Another trend, for hair and body care, the company Nohbo is on a mission to get rid of plastic bottles for personal care. They developed "drops" of shampoo / body wash in a film that dissolves under the shower. And there is science behind: figuring out a shampoo formulation that does not contain water to make sure the film will not dissolve.

A few ideas that, I hope, will change the way you see your bathroom a bit differently. More to come!