A Sustainable Solution: Plastic-Free Shampoo Bars
A Sustainable Solution: Plastic-Free Shampoo Bars
A Sustainable Solution: Plastic-Free Shampoo Bars
ISSN No:-2456-2165
Abstract:- Shampoo bars made without plastic are II. RESEARCH REVIEW
becoming more popular as an environmentally beneficial
way to reduce plastic pollution in the personal care A. Plastic Pollution and Environmental Concerns
sector. This abstract examines the environmental Plastic pollution has become an urgent global
advantages, all-natural composition, and consumer environmental crisis, sparking increasing concerns due to its
attractiveness of these products. Shampoo bars come in widespread impacts on ecosystems and human well-being.
simple, biodegradable packaging that helps cut down on This section presents a thorough examination of the issues
plastic waste. They are safe for regular use, made with related to plastic pollution and the associated environmental
natural materials, and devoid of dangerous chemicals. concerns, drawing from various scholarly sources.
Although there are still issues with formulation and
awareness, shampoo bars represent a potential step B. The Global Plastic Pollution Crisis
towards a future free of plastic due to rising consumer The scale of the global plastic pollution crisis is
demand for environmentally friendly products. undeniable, with millions of metric tons of plastic waste
generated annually (Geyer et al., 2017). This exponential
Keywords:- Plastic Free; Pollution Reduce; Sustainable growth in plastic production has led to a staggering increase
Living; Green Living. in plastic waste entering the environment (PlasticsEurope,
2021). Despite recycling efforts, a significant portion of
I. INTRODUCTION plastic waste still ends up in landfills or natural environments
(Hoornweg et al., 2019).
Growing awareness of the negative environmental
effects of plastic waste has sparked a global search for C. Impacts of Plastic Pollution on Oceans and Wildlife
sustainable solutions in many facets of our everyday life. The adverse effects of plastic pollution on oceans and
One of these is the personal care sector, which has drawn wildlife are well-documented. Microplastics, tiny plastic
criticism for its significant role in plastic pollution due to the particles smaller than 5mm, have become ubiquitous in
widespread usage of liquid shampoo bottles. Shampoo bars marine ecosystems (Jambeck et al., 2015). Marine
made without plastic have become a popular and organisms, including plankton and larger species, ingest
environmentally responsible option in response to this issue. microplastics, potentially leading to bioaccumulation and
This introduction gives a general overview of the growing biomagnification of toxins (Wright et al., 2013).
problem of plastic pollution, the idea of plastic-free shampoo
bars, and the driving forces behind the transition to more Coral reefs, vital marine ecosystems, face significant
environmentally friendly hair care products. threats from plastic pollution. Plastics can physically smother
corals, block sunlight, and serve as a vector for disease
According to a study summarized by the New York transmission (Lamb et al., 2018). Furthermore, numerous
Times, 8.3 billion metric tons of plastic have been produced species of marine and terrestrial wildlife are affected by
since it was introduced in the 1950s, with around half of it plastic ingestion (Wright et al., 2013). For instance, sea
made since 2004. Sadly, most of that plastic is no longer in turtles often consume plastic bags, mistaking them for
use. Only around 9% of it has been recycled, 12% was jellyfish (Schuyler et al., 2016), and albatrosses ingest plastic
incinerated, and 79% is accumulated in landfills or the fragments, causing harm and death (Roman et al., 2019).
natural environment. Plastic packaging, which is typically
used for less than a year, accounted for about 42% of non- D. The Role of Single-Use Plastics in Pollution
fiber (LIKE, non-material) plastic production in 2015. If A Single-use plastics are a significant contributor to
current production and waste management trends continue, plastic pollution due to their widespread use and disposal.
roughly 12 billion metric tons of plastic waste will be in These items, designed for one-time or short-term use, include
landfills or in the natural environment by 2050. plastic bags, straws, bottles, and food packaging (Ritchie,
2018). The disposal of single-use plastics contributes to the
global litter problem, as they are often lightweight and easily
transported by wind and water (Thompson et al., 2009).
VII. METHODOLOGY
F. Quality Assessment and Testing To create this counterpart, a mixture of plaster of Paris
To ascertain the quality and performance of our soap- (PoP) is employed. PoP, known for its exceptional molding
based containers, a series of rigorous assessments and tests properties and ease of use, is prepared by mixing it with a
are conducted. These include durability testing, where the calculated amount of water, achieving an optimal
containers are subjected to simulated real-world conditions consistency. A precise quantity of salt is introduced into the
to evaluate their resilience. Additionally, sensory PoP mixture, serving as a reinforcement agent to enhance
evaluations are conducted to gauge user satisfaction and the structural integrity of the mold.
acceptability.
Once the PoP mixture attains the desired viscosity, it is
G. Environmental Impact Assessment carefully poured into the 3D-printed mold. This step
Our research methodology also incorporates an necessitates precision and attention to detail to ensure a
environmental impact assessment, which involves a flawless mold cast. The PoP is allowed to set and cure,
comprehensive evaluation of the sustainability and eco- forming a solid mold capable of withstanding the
friendliness of the soap-based containers. This assessment subsequent phases of container creation.
considers factors such as reduced plastic waste, minimized
pollution, and potential benefits to the environment. C. Mold Assembly and Soap Filling
Upon achieving the required structural integrity, the
H. Replicability and Scalability Analysis PoP mold is gently separated from the 3D-printed mold. To
Finally, we analyse the replicability and scalability of guarantee that the two halves of the mold fit seamlessly
our methodology to assess its feasibility for widespread together, meticulous attention is paid to mold assembly. To
adoption and industrial production. This entails evaluating prevent adhesion between the PoP mold halves and the soap
the potential for large-scale manufacturing and the during the filling process, a thin layer of oil is meticulously
availability of resources and infrastructure required for applied to one of the mold halves.
implementation.
The soap-based container's creation reaches a pivotal
VIII. WORKING PROCESS juncture with the introduction of the liquid soap base. The
soap base, previously prepared with the inclusion of lemon
The working process section elucidates the practical peel mixture, is heated to its melting point, rendering it in a
execution of our research endeavours, delving into the liquid state. This molten soap base is then carefully poured
intricacies of how the soap-based containers, conceived in into one half of the mold, ensuring a controlled and precise
the methodology, are actualized through a distinct set of filling process.
actions and procedures. It is paramount to differentiate this
section from the methodology, as it focuses on the hands-on D. Mold Closure and Drying
implementation of our innovative approach. Once the liquid soap base fills the mold half, the two
mold halves are securely joined, creating a closed mold
cavity. This act of mold closure initiates the process of soap
solidification and drying. During this phase, meticulous
E. Mold Removal and Final Assessment First and foremost, the outer covering of the soap-
Upon the completion of the drying and solidification based container has exhibited remarkable robustness and
process, the mold is carefully disassembled. The soap-based resilience. Even when filled with liquid shampoo or
container emerges from this process as a robust, spherical conditioner, the soap container maintains its structural
vessel with a hollow interior, perfectly suited for the integrity, thereby ensuring the secure containment of its
containment of liquid shampoo or conditioner. contents. This inherent strength signifies its suitability for
prolonged use without deformation or compromise.
F. Starch Coating Application
A distinguishing feature of our working process is the In terms of texture and composition, the soap-based
application of a starch coating to the soap-based container. container strikes a harmonious balance between hardness
This starch coating serves as a protective layer, enhancing and malleability. It exudes an ideal firmness that not only
the container's structural integrity and longevity. It is endows it with durability but also facilitates convenient
meticulously applied, ensuring uniform coverage and handling and use. The tactile sensation it imparts during use
adherence to quality standards. is pleasing, instilling a sense of confidence in consumers.
G. Quality Assurance and Testing The soap container's natural yellow hue, a
Our working process is augmented by rigorous quality characteristic feature of the soap base, offers an inviting
assurance and testing procedures. These encompass aesthetic. Furthermore, the customization potential is a
durability assessments to ascertain the container's resilience, noteworthy attribute. Pigments and fragrances can be
sensory evaluations to gauge user satisfaction, and judiciously introduced into the soap base during its
functionality testing to ensure it effectively houses liquid preparation, allowing for a spectrum of colours and scents
shampoo or conditioner. tailored to consumer preferences. This adaptability ensures
that the soap-based containers can cater to a wide array of
H. Environmental Impact Considerations consumer tastes and inclinations.
Throughout the working process, we remain attuned to
the environmental impact of our endeavours. Sustainable One of the most distinctive features of the soap-based
practices are incorporated into each step to minimize waste container is its eco-friendliness. Crafted from natural
and reduce our carbon footprint. This includes the ingredients, it harmonizes with the environment seamlessly.
responsible disposal of unused materials and the promotion Furthermore, its gentle composition ensures that it is non-
of eco-friendly practices. harmful to the skin, positioning it as a safe and ethical
choice for personal care product packaging.
In essence, our working process epitomizes the
transformation of conceptualization into reality, showcasing Storing the soap-based containers is convenient,
how innovative ideas evolve into tangible, eco-friendly requiring only typical room temperature or cooler
soap-based containers through a sequence of precise, hands- environments. Post-usage, when the liquid contents are
on procedures. This working process underscores the depleted, the containers continue to serve a functional
practicality, feasibility, and sustainability of our approach, purpose. Repurposing them as hand soap containers extends
solidifying its potential as a significant contributor to plastic their utility for an additional 20-30 days. This dual-purpose
waste reduction and sustainable living practices. functionality aligns with the principles of sustainability and
resourcefulness.
Personalized Packaging:
Explore the possibility of personalized packaging,
allowing consumers to select custom designs and labels for
their soap containers.
Scaling Up:
Transition from laboratory-scale production to larger-
scale manufacturing processes to meet consumer demand
effectively.