When it comes to being more sustainable in your salon, it can often feel overwhelming. Which is why, HJ have put together a list of 10 simple sustainable goals for you to focus on in your salon...
1. Save your Energy
Reducing the energy you use in the salon is going to significantly help reduce your carbon emissions. “Speak to your energy supplier about using renewable sources,” advises Terry Wilson, Hair Organics Notting Hill. “I would recommend changing your lights to LED eco saving lightbulbs.” Meanwhile, Anne Veck tells us a few top tips: “Switch off your electrical tools when not in use, and don’t leave them charging overnight. Have motion sensor timers in rooms that aren’t always occupied and turn your thermostat down a few degrees!”
2. Recycle, Recycle, Recycle
With lots of companies around to collect salon waste, recycling has never been easier. “We recycle all of our waste in the salon with Green Salon Collective,” Mel Tudor, En Route Hair & Beauty, tells us. “All the contaminated metals, hair, plastics, and soft plastics. It pays for itself if you charge an eco-fee, which we add to each client’s bill.” Meanwhile, Santi Figueroa, owner of Santiago Figueroa London, advises: “Educate your team and clients about appropriate recycling practices and ensure everyone is aware if you implement new processes.”
3. Cut Down Your Colour Waste
There are a number of colour management software companies that can help you reduce your colour waste. This not only helps you save money, but it also minimises the disposal of chemicals.
4. Look at Your Brand Partners
It’s so important to partner with brands that have the same eco-friendly and sustainable values as you. “What are their credentials? Are the products sulphate free? Are they cruelty free? Sodium lauryl sulphate is used in some shampoos, and it’s made from palm oil,” Mel tells us. “Deforestation of the rainforest to plant palm oil has a huge impact on the planet – we rely on the rainforest to absorb CO2 and release oxygen.”
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5. Go Paperless!
Going paperless considerably cuts waste. “Scrapping paper forms and receipts in favour of digital choices helps save trees and reduce the energy and resources used in paper production,” says Santi. “Plus, it reduces the carbon footprint connected with transporting, storage, and disposing of paper goods. Beyond eco-friendly benefits, it modernises operations, saves time and improves secure record keeping.”
6. Opt for Disposable Towels
“We’ve been using biodegradable towels for 15 years, to replace unnecessary use of washing machines and dryers,” Terry tells us. “This is a game changer, clients love it!” Similarly, Mel tells us: “When we first introduced disposable towels, it was daunting and we worried clients wouldn’t like the change, but we’ve never looked back.”
7. Educate your Staff
As the saying goes, ‘knowledge is power’. And by upskilling your team, you can all make a conscious effort to ensure your salon remains consistent in your sustainability efforts. Plus, it’s a great conversation to have with clients! Not only will your clients appreciate your efforts and ethos, but it can also lead to an increase in client loyalty.
Here's some tips on how the whole team can contribute towards being more sustainable.
8. Use Natural Cleaning Products
Cleaning your salon is essential but it’s important to think about the products you are using. Are they free from harsh chemicals? Are they biodegradable? Do you use disposable paper towels or reusable cloths?
9. Save Water
We all know that water consumption is unavoidable for most client services, but thinking about things cleverly makes all the difference. “Use warm water rather than hot and install a water saving device at the backwash,” Anne advises. (And don’t forget if you make the change to disposable towels, you’ll be saving a huge amount of water too!)
10. Include Your Salon Interior!
Like when looking at brand partners, look for furniture companies with the same values as you. Consider the longevity of the furniture. Can you opt for upcycled furniture? Eco-friendly materials? When coming to update your salon’s interior, thinking about all the options you can take can make a huge difference to being more sustainable.
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Today's sustainability content is sponsored by L'Oréal Professional Products.
