The Australian Society of Cosmetic Chemists (ASCC), supported by L’Oréal Research & Innovation, will host the Sustainability Challenge at IFSCC 2026. Startups and academics are invited to bring forward bold, science-backed innovations that can move the cosmetics industry faster toward a more sustainable future. The challenge will be held on Sept. 29.

Submissions may span sustainable technologies, engineering solutions, or design innovations that can make the cosmetics industry more responsible and environmentally conscious. Examples of topics: sustainable sourcing, green formulations, resource-efficient manufacturing, water-saving solutions, biomimicry, next-gen packaging and many other advances. The competition is open to startups and academic research groups.  Applications will be reviewed anonymously by a jury of sustainability experts. Selection criteria include novelty, potential scope of application, and maturity of the solution.

Each finalist will deliver a 2-minute pitch on stage ; join a 45-minute informal networking session to showcase the innovation, engage with delegates, answer questions, and convince the jury in person.

Application deadline is May 29.

The winner will be awarded a one-year ASCC membership (including access to the IFSCC website), a dedicated winner post on IFSCC Congress and ASCC social media and a ticket to IFSCC 2027 in Basel, Switzerland.

More info: https://ifscc2026.com/Sustainability-Challenge/