As global demand for aluminium continues to grow and the material takes on increasing strategic importance, the cosmetics sector is emerging as a powerful driver of innovation in responsible sourcing. Although it accounts for only a limited share of global aluminium volumes, the luxury beauty sector sets high standards for quality, design, and traceability, standards that will help raise the bar across the entire value chain and encourage innovation.
Under the agreement, the partners will work together to develop aluminium packaging solutions whose carbon footprint will approach 3.0 kilograms of CO₂ equivalent per kilogram of aluminium by 2030, while meeting the highest requirements for quality, performance and design.
The partners will also jointly explore various ways of reducing emissions, including the development and testing of aluminium produced in specific batches, enhanced traceability and the use of aluminium recovered from end-of-life products.
Advancing low-carbon aluminium for packaging
Produced in Norway using renewable energy, this low-carbon aluminium is certified with a carbon footprint of no more than 4.0 kilograms of CO₂ equivalent per kilogram of aluminium, less than one third of the global average. The work will initially be based on Hydro REDUXA primary aluminium sheet ingot, which will subsequently be rolled into aluminium sheet used for packaging. Hydro and CHANEL Fragrance and Beauty will work to further reduce this footprint, while preserving the quality, creativity, and excellence expected in fragrance and beauty packaging.
“Our most ambitious customers often drive innovation by setting clear and demanding goals. By combining Hydro’s broad product portfolio, quality, and service with our low-carbon and circular aluminium solutions, we can develop materials with a lower carbon footprint for fragrance and beauty packaging,” says Hanne Simensen, Executive Vice President of Hydro Aluminium Metal.
Strengthening traceability and the use of recycled aluminium
The partners will study the possibility of incorporating more recycled aluminium, as part of a more circular approach.
“Aluminium is a strategic material, and making its production and processing more responsible requires action across the value chain. At CHANEL Fragrance and Beauty, we believe that creating exceptional products and sustainability must go hand in hand. This partnership reflects our conviction that lasting progress depends on working with partners who share the same long-term ambition. Together, we can go further in developing materials that make our products both more sustainable and desirable,” says Julien Garry, Chief Operations Officer, CHANEL Fragrance and Beauty.
Published: September 28, 2026
