Collaboration for Obsoleted Cosmetics into Building Materials

Members, their roles, and reason for cooperation

Who's Involved & Their Roles:

• L'Oréal Japan will supply obsolete cosmetics.

• Tokyo Gas Real Estate will incorporate these materials into their building projects.

Collaboration Highlights:

• This partnership goes beyond a typical tenant-owner relationship; both companies have a history of collaboration, such as obtaining LEED GOLD certification for L'Oréal Japan's headquarters.

• This initiative aligns with L'Oréal's global sustainability program, "L'Oréal for the Future," by transforming waste into valuable resources.

• For Tokyo Gas Real Estate, this project embodies their commitment to "ESG-oriented real estate development" focusing on disaster resilience, community well-being, and environmental sustainability.

• On May 24, 2023, L'Oréal Japan and Tokyo Gas Real Estate reached an agreement to promote the use of upcycled building materials made from L'Oréal's discarded cosmetics in buildings developed by Tokyo Gas Real Estate.

Time started (or to be started)

• May 2023: Agreement reached.

• June 2023: Selection of cosmetic and building materials.

• August-October 2023: Tile production.

• November 2023: Completion of "College Court KOKUBUNJI" project.

• January 2024: Completion of "LATIERRA académico MITAKA" project.

Technology and business model

Obsoleted L'Oréal cosmetics-822 powder foundation compacts -are upcycled into tile building materials, adding value and promoting a circular economy. Here's how:

1. Cosmetic Breakdown: Powder foundation compacts are opened, and the powder is heated to remove oils.

2. Material Mixing: The foundation powder is then mixed with clay.

3. Tile Shaping: The mixture is molded into tile shapes and glazed.

4. Tile Firing: The tiles are fired in a kiln powered by natural gas at approximately 1300 degrees Celsius for 24 hours.

Achievements and goals

• College Court KOKUBUNJI (Completed November 20, 2023): White tiles made from the upcycled cosmetics were used in the dining hall's serving area, promoting a clean and bright aesthetic.

• LATIERRA académico MITAKA (Completed January 31, 2024): Blue tiles depicting a waterfall were installed as artwork on the staircase wall in the dining area, symbolizing the cyclical nature of both water and this sustainability initiative.

This partnership demonstrates a commitment to exploring and implementing innovative solutions for a more sustainable future. Both companies plan to continue this initiative in future Tokyo Gas Real Estate developments.

Reference URL

Tokyo Gas Real Estate press release: May 24, 2023: L'Oréal Japan and Tokyo Gas Real Estate have agreed to promote the use of upcycled building materials made from discarded cosmetics in building development.

https://www.tokyogas-re.co.jp/news/2023/0524_1.html

January 31, 2024: Tokyo Gas Real Estate press release-Completion of "College Court KOKUBUNJI" and "LATIERRA académico MITAKA".

https://www.tokyogas-re.co.jp/news/2024/0131_1.html

L'Oréal Japan Press Release:

May 24, 2023: Agreement with Tokyo Gas Real Estate to promote the use of upcycled building materials made from discarded cosmetics.

https://www.loreal.com/ja-jp/japan/press-releases/brands/j-tgre-upcycling-release/