Schick’s new razor gives a greener shave with reclaimed resin

Schick has launched the first disposable razor to use 100% recycled plastic in the production of its handle.

Suma Nagaraj, brand manager for Schick Xtreme3, told PlasticsToday the new Schick Xtreme3 Eco line is made with recycled plastic derived from plastic clothes hangers, buckets, and pails instead of other biodegradable or recycled materials in order to have a more immediate impact on the environment.

"We recognize that people everywhere are becoming more mindful of the environment, and looking for simple ways they can do their part," she said. "Schick wanted to give those people a simple and easy way to finally achieve a greener shave."

From using recycled plastic in the new razor, the company will save an estimated 118,000 lb of virgin materials from going into landfills each year.

The product is made with recycled polypropylene resins from NextLife, a resin recycler. No machines were adjusted in the injection molding of the Xtreme3 Eco razor, as recycled plastic no. 5 could be used in existing molds to produce the same razor.

"It was important for us to ensure consumers got the same great shave they expect from a Schick Xtreme3 razor," Nagaraj said. "Schick did not compromise quality nor value while still providing a simple way consumers can do their part for the environment."

In addition to a handle made of 100% recycled plastic, Schick realized that sustainable packaging was just as important as a sustainable razor, she said.

The Schick Xtreme3 Eco packaging is made of 100% post-consumer paper. By using recycled paper in its packaging, Schick estimates they will save 15,500 lb of virgin paper from going into landfills.

With consumers seeing more of these types of everyday-use products made with recycled material, Xtreme3 Eco may usher in a new era of sustainable practices by product manufacturers, the company stated.

"The launch of Schick Xtreme3 Eco is a step change in the disposable razor category and we will continue to take proactive steps to minimize the impact of Schick products and manufacturing processes on the environment," Nagaraj said.

Schick Xtreme3 Eco is currently available for both men and women at Wal-Mart with wider, national distribution in April.