Feb. 7, 2025, 11:38 a.m.

Becoming a Sustainability Detective

I'm launching a pilot as the "Sustainability Detective" to help cosmetics businesses tackle real progress.

Formulating the future

Dear reader,

Remember last week’s email about the perfect sustainability trap? How waiting for ideal solutions blocks real progress? I realized I was doing the same thing. For months, I researched, wrote and refined what I believe could help cosmetics businesses make meaningful sustainability progress. But I kept waiting for the “perfect” moment, the “perfect” framework, the “perfect” approach. I was falling into the same trap I’d been writing about.

For years, I've been the person who sees what could be better. Some might call it being a know-it-all, but I call it being a detective.

So here's my imperfect but authentic offer: I'm launching a pilot as the Sustainability Detective.

What's a Sustainability Detective? Imagine someone who combines the persistence of a detective with the pragmatism of a scientist and the heart of an idealist. Someone who investigates every aspect of your cosmetics business —from formulations to supply chains to the cafeteria's waste — to find practical sustainability solutions that leave no one behind. Because that's what drives me—making the world better for everyone, not just those who can afford premium solutions.

For this pilot, I'm offering a detailed sustainability analysis that includes:

  • Two days of on-site investigation*

  • Deep dive into formulations and processes.

  • Interviews with key team members

  • Analysis and recommendations

  • Presentation of findings and opportunities

The twist? I'm using a “Pay What You Want” model. Yes, it makes me nervous. But if I'm asking brands to be bold about sustainability, shouldn't I be bold about my business model?

If you’re ready to move beyond “perfect” and make progress on your sustainability journey, let’s talk. Just reply to this email.

With determination,

Priscilla

P.S. Do you know someone in the cosmetics industry who might benefit from this detective work? Please share this email with them—together we can make a difference.

*I don’t fly. Available for train-accessible locations from Almere, Netherlands, national and abroad.

You just read issue #11 of Formulating the future. You can also browse the full archives of this newsletter.

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