Schick Aims to Keep Razors Out of Landfills

The Environmental Protection Agency once estimated that two billion razors and refill blades get thrown away in the U.S. each year. This is the reason that Schick said it is taking bold action now to mitigate this alarming statistic.

This month, Schick introduced its Xtreme 3 Eco Glide razor — the first disposable razor on the mass market made with 100% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic and fully recyclable.

This product is an example of the work Schick is doing, as part of Edgewell’s portfolio of personal-care brands, to deliver on Edgewell’s Sustainable Care 2030 Report. The aim is to reduce plastic waste across the category, especially considering that more than two billion disposable razors end up in landfills each year.

We wanted to learn more, so we followed up with Natalya Utesheva, senior brand manager from Schick.

What were the challenges in developing this product?

Some of the challenges were securing a reliable supply of recycled resin, especially on a global scale; ensuring molds are capable of running the recycled resins; and figuring out how to communicate the sustainability message to our consumers.

Is the product 100% plastic, or is there still some metal being used?

Some metal is still being used for the blades and the handle is made from 100% recycled plastic (polypropylene). The cartridge is made from virgin polypropylene and thermoplastic elastomer (TPE), plus stainless steel for the blades. And the lubrication strip is made from a formulation of plastic and other ingredients.

How is the razor fully recyclable, and will it present any challenges for recycling facilities?

The polypropylene handle is recyclable if the cartridge is removed, and of course if there is a local facility that can process this type of product. In various markets we are beginning to test programs that can collect our used razors for proper recycling. But, while we control the inputs, we cannot control the outputs including what consumers do after using the razor. This product has focused on what we can control, which is to use as much post-consumer recycled resin as we can, since it is our position that this is better for sustainability.

Do you anticipate resistance regarding consumer acceptance of this new product?

Many consumers have shifted in their thinking toward sustainability issues, which is becoming increasingly important to them. This product supports that mind shift, and we anticipate the product will be widely accepted by both consumers and retailers alike. With the launch of the Xtreme 3 Eco Glide, we are able to give consumers the convenient disposable option they want, without having to choose between convenience and the environment.