Clean teeth, clean earth: Company claims first carbon-neutral toothbrush

In India, GSK Consumer Healthcare says it has launched the world’s first carbon-neutral toothbrush. Made in the classic “Dr.Best” style, the toothbrush is made of cellulose; a bioplastic produced using paper production byproducts; and castor oil material for the bristles. The materials cut the carbon footprint of the toothbrush in half compared to a standard model, and the remaining 50% is achieved through a carbon offset via a community project in Madagascar. Packaging is also plastic-free. 

“Whilst this product achieves carbon neutral status by offsetting, we are working to develop future solutions that do not require offsetting,” says Gareth Rudduck, Oral Care Sustainability Lead at GSKCH. “It’s just one part of our ongoing sustainability journey, in which we’re working to address the environmental and societal barriers to everyday health.”

The company has vowed to reach net zero emissions by 2030.