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In Japan, the time-honored art of Kintsugi transforms broken pottery into stunning works of art by repairing it with lacquer mixed with powdered gold, silver, or platinum. Rather than discarding damaged pieces as waste, Kintsugi artists create new value, turning what is often seen as flawed into something uniquely beautiful. This process not only restores functionality but also imbues the object with a new identity, celebrating its history and journey.
At ROELMI HPC, we embrace a similar philosophy. “Our approach is rooted in creating deeper connections—not just between our products and consumers, but also between our company and the environment,” says Elisa Altieri, Ph.D., Market Manager for Personal Care.
“By transforming what many consider waste into valuable resources, we’re reducing our environmental impact and promoting a circular economy,” she explains. “This approach minimizes waste while creating high-performance, sustainable products that align with our mission to respect the environment and meet consumer needs for effective and safe cosmetics.”
The valorization of by-products is an act of connection, where each piece tells a story of respect reborn and growth.
The Science of Sustainability
Following this philosophy, ROELMI HPC develops functional and active ingredients for the cosmetic and personal care industry from its headquarters in Origgio, Lombardy, Italy. The company partners with Italian businesses along the agri-food chain, recovering by-products such as fruit peels, seeds, and process waters from juice production.
These materials, typically discarded as waste, are transformed through advanced extraction and processing technologies into valuable cosmetic ingredients.
This upcycling process “not only reduces waste but also creates ingredients that enhance skin health and beauty, demonstrating a practical application of our sustainability ethos.” Upcycling has become a buzzword in the beauty industry, representing the transformation of ostensibly damaged goods into something beautiful. It emphasizes restoring functionality while celebrating the materials' history and journey, all while respecting the Earth.
The technologies employed by ROELMI HPC to convert materials once seen as waste into valuable new ingredients are extensive and sophisticated. The company harnesses biotechnology, green chemistry, efficient production processes, and clean fractionation techniques, showcasing a commitment to sustainability that goes beyond mere upcycling.
Author: Elisa Altieri, Ph.D.
Market Manager Personal Care
