This side event will discuss the importance and potential of non-wood forest products (NWFPs) for the cosmetic and fragrance sector globally. Specific experiences from Asia and the Pacific will be presented based on 12 country studies prepared as part of the “Forests and Beauty” initiative. The event aims to raise awareness on the immense potential of NWFPs for use in the cosmetic and fragrance sector, the total value of which is estimated at US$460 billion (2014) and is expected to grow rapidly to reach US$675 billion by 2020. Recommendations for future work will be gathered.

The use of cosmetic and beauty products derived from forests has a history dating back more than 6,000 years. Traditional beauty products were almost invariably derived from plant, animal or surface mineral sources, including many forest products. Globally, plant-based products are becoming increasingly popular choices in modern markets due in large part to the growth of more ethically and environmentally-minded consumers. Many facial creams, soaps, shower gels and oils are increasingly relying on natural products from forests. FAO recently undertook case studies across Asia and the Pacific on the status and potential of products derived from forests for cosmetic and fragrance sector. An overarching competitive advantage of NWFPs used in beauty and cosmetic formulations is the perception of naturalness compared to many other products. The case studies demonstrate that prospects are very good for continued and increased use of NWFPs in beauty and cosmetic products. A variety of important challenges exist –  NWFP producers of beauty and cosmetic products need to be continuously adapting and improving to ensure they maintain their advantages. However, solutions to most of these challenges can be found.

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PROGRAMME

08:30	Opening: Mr. Thomas Hofer, Senior Forestry Officer (FAO), Facilitator
08:35 – 08:40	Opening remarks:Ms. Eva Muller, Director of the Forest Department of FAO
08:40 – 08:45	Special remarks: Mr. Jürgen Blaser, Adviser of the ASEAN Swiss Partnership on Social Forestry and Climate Change (ASFCC)
08:45 – 09:00	Presentation 1: Ms. Nola Andaya (NTFP-EP Asia) Forests and Beauty in Asia Overview of the cases, results, way forward
09:00 – 09:15	Presentation 2: Ms. Nuning Barwa (Martha Tilaar, Indonesia) Global perspective on natural products in the cosmetic industry: The case of langsat (Lansium domesticum or Lansium parasiticum)
09:15 – 09:25	Presentation 3:  Ms. Shiny Rehel (Keystone Foundation, India) Natural products in the cosmetics and personal care industry: The case of soapberry (Sapindus emarginatus)
09:25 – 09:50	Q&A
09:50 – 10:00	Conclusion and way forward: Ms. Thais L. Juvenal, Senior Forestry Officer (FAO)

Tuesday July 17, 2018 | 08:30 – 10:00 AM | Ethiopia Room, FAO Rome