Shampoo, Body Shampoo, Liquid & Solid Soap Products

Shampoos and soaps include liquid and solid cosmetic soap products designed primarily to wash/cleanse the skin and hair of the body, followed by rinsing with water. Shampoos and soaps are commonplace in bath and wash-rooms throughout Australia. Such widespread use - millions of kilograms per year - sees shampoos and soaps contribute to environmental loads placed on waterways and receiving waters. The surfactants (active cleaning agents) within these products are often not biodegradable and contain hazardous substances, contain organic substances that remain in the environment for long periods of time and exceed 'normal' aerobic and anaerobic biodegradability limits, and often contain carcinogenic (cancer-causing), reproductive toxins, hazardous fragrances and colourants.

Fortunately, environmentally preferable shampoos and soap products are available and are becoming more commonplace. These products are low in phosphorous, do not contain hazardous compounds such as EDTA's, NTA, trichlorethane, chlorine or chlorine compounds, xylene sulphonate, opacifiers, APEO's or carcinogenic substances; they contain biodegradable surfactants (cleaning agents); contain fragrances approved by the International Fragrance Association (IFRA); use EU approved colourants; are packaged in recyclable, non-toxic packaging which is clearly labelled as recyclable; and are accompanied with full information regarding the best-use and environmental performance characteristics of the product.

Choosing and using environmentally preferable hand dishwashing detergent personal can be achieved as follows:

Consumer Behaviour Tips

• Choose products with EU approved colourants, or none at all;
• Choose products that are low in or do not contain phosphorous or sodium;
• Only purchase those recognized as not containing hazardous substances;
• Choose products supplied in recyclable packaging, indicated by a resin identification code. This is an international coding system showing a triangle and plastic-specific number;
• Opt for products that have minimal packaging to start with;
• Use the product sparingly per wash to improve the economy of the product;
• Choose products that are biodegradable;
• Use a water-saver or similar device to divert used soapy water on gardens, rather than into drains;
• Avoid products that have excessive fragrance, or ensure that the fragrance in question is IFRA approved;
• Recycle all waste packaging where possible;
• Don’t be mislead – organic and environmentally preferable shampoos and soaps can, and do, perform equally as well as conventional products;

For specific information view our Environmental Standard for Shampoos & Soaps: www.geca.org.au/standardsregister.htm