Ethical Approaches in the Cosmetics Industry and Animal-Friendly Solutions

The Erasmus+ Youth Exchange “Cruelty Free Fashion” (Project No. 2022-3-HU01-KA152-YOU-000093353) was held in Budapest, Hungary, from 22 to 29 September 2023, hosted by Tudatos Tervezésért Egyesület. The project brought together Long Term Planning from Hungary, Asociația Universul Adolescenților from Romania, SHAFT ORGANIZATION from Türkiye, Centrum pro ochranu zvirat PAFF z.s from Czechia, Black Wood Environmental Biedrība from Latvia, and Comunità di Supereroi from Italy to strengthen the concept of ethical and animal-friendly fashion.

During an information session delivered by the Czech team, the use of animals in the development and testing of cosmetic products was examined in detail. By learning about the background of products commonly used in daily life, participants increased their awareness of conscious consumption and animal welfare.

In group discussions moderated by the Latvian team, participants generated creative and practical ideas on how cosmetic testing could be carried out without the use of animals. This activity enhanced the young people’s critical thinking, empathy, idea-generation, and public speaking skills.

In the birdhouse-building workshop led by the Turkish team, participants designed functional shelters for urban birds, thereby reinforcing their sense of volunteerism and environmental responsibility. Highlighting craftsmanship, creativity, and team solidarity, the activity made a tangible contribution to the protection of animals’ habitats.

During the final evaluation session, all activities were reviewed and participants shared their views and recommendations. As a result, their self-assessment, collaborative decision-making, and analytical thinking skills were strengthened, while the learning outcomes related to ethical fashion and animal rights became firmly embedded.