The Green Libertines: Leading the Fight for Change

Shifting the narrative to ensure sustainability is at the forefront of everyone’s daily practices is no mean feat but, as they say, many hands make light work. This is why renowned industry innovators, Green Salon Collective, have enlisted some of their key advocates to create a group of like-minded people to spread the word and to make a difference – introducing, the Green Libertines. Meeting virtually with the GSC team once a month, as well as day-to-day communication via a dedicated WhatsApp group, the Green Libertines are on a mission to create a sustainable, eco-friendly future for hairdressing. The team includes professionals from all levels of the industry, from top-notch session stylists to freelance pros and salon stylists, all of which are passionate eco warriors who believe that change starts from within. They understand that sustainability is not a trend; it's a way of life, and they're determined to make it the norm. By assisting and attending industry events on behalf of GSC, as well as a dedicated Green Libertines Instagram, the team’s aim is simple. Together they want to raise awareness, spark conversations, and inspire action through their work, their words, and by creatively inspiring our wonderful community.

Meet the Green Libertines

Joel Henderson, Linton and Mac – @MoshHair_ @LintonAndMac

Based in Linton and Mac, Aberdeen, Joel is an up-and-coming hairdresser with a passion for serving those who don't conform to the norm. With a One to Watch award at the 2022 Scottish Hair and Beauty Awards, Joel has made a name for himself through his inclusive and alternative haircuts. Eager to learn and collaborate, Joel is constantly seeking out like-minded individuals within the industry to further hone his skills, share his eco-conscious practices and make positive change within the industry.

Sam Caldwell-Smith, Gary Ingham – @Sam_GaryIngham

As General Manager and Eco Champion for Gary Ingham Salons, Sam has a clear goal to make a positive impact on the industry and to set the standards for all hairdressers to become sustainable, regardless of their place within the industry or the size of their business. With proven success already within the Gary Ingham team as well as with their clients, Sam is on a mission to share insight and information around sustainability practices that are totally transparent and easy to understand.

Andrea Harvey, Salon Messina – @Salon_Messina

With 38 years of hairdressing experience, including 18 years in education, Andrea is a passionate vegan who has travelled the globe sharing her love for the craft. With an impressive CV to date, Andrea is now Salon and Education Manager at Salon Messina, working with the Director, Anthony Jacobson, to make the salon a leading light in sustainability. Additionally, with a new role as External Quality Assurer with the awarding body VTCT, Andrea has aspirations to promote sustainable salon practices from the grass roots up.

Gabriele Radaviciute, Q Cut Salon – @QCutKew

Starting as a Saturday girl just three years ago, Gabs instantly appreciated the positive impact hairdressers have on their clients. Clearly seeing the potential in our industry, she committed herself to a career in in the family salon. In addition to honing her craft and spreading the GSC message within the industry, Gabs is aiming to help introduce single use plastic trade ins via supermarkets in the UK; adopted by many European countries already, this is a proven initiative that not only helps to minimise littering, but reduces overall carbon footprint.

Bridget Kearney, Bridget Kearney Ethical Beauty – @BridgetKearneyEthicalBeauty

Bridget is a highly skilled professional with extensive experience in hair, makeup, and permanent cosmetics. Beginning her career in New Zealand, Bridget went on to work on numerous television broadcasts, however she has now found herself working at the prestigious salon at the Dorchester Hotel. Exclusively using cruelty-free products, she has a commitment to animal welfare. She consistently produces remarkable results while ensuring her work is environmentally friendly. Bridget's passion for sustainability inspired her to pursue an Environmental Sustainability degree at London's Birkbeck University, expanding her knowledge in the field and driving her to adopt positive changes in all aspects of life.

Zoë Rees, Bliss Hair Therapy – @BlissSalonB48

Zoë is a nature-loving, award-winning stylist and salon owner who has travelled the world with her career. With a passion for creating perfectly blended balayage and stunning bridal styles, Zoë's skills have led her to an education role with ELEVEN Australia and a slot on both the main stage and colour stage at Salon International in 2022. Sustainability is at the heart of her salon's vision, and she's committed to reducing her carbon footprint and sharing eco-friendly practices with other stylists.

Claire Higgs, Nylon Hair Artists – @NylonHairArtists

Meet Claire Higgs, the trailblazing founder of Nylon Hair Artists. With over 14 years' experience in the hair industry, Claire has worked her magic on the world's most prestigious runways at London Fashion Week and on countless magazine shoots. More than just a talented stylist, Claire is passionate about the environment and making a positive impact on the planet. That's why at Nylon, they are committed to the cause with sustainability at the forefront of everything they do.

Anna Barber, The Scissor Psychologist – @Anna_TheScissorPsychologist

As a hairdressing guru with over 23 years' experience under her belt, Anna has seen the industry evolve and transform over the years. With an insatiable hunger for knowledge, Anna has completed countless courses to refine her skills and stay ahead of the curve, making her a highly sought-after stylist. Anna's passion for hair colour also revealed a darker side to the industry and the staggering amount of waste generated in the process. This is when she decided to take matters into her own hands and become an ambassador for the Green Salon Collective. Anna is now part of a wider community that shares her concerns for sustainability and aims to make a real difference in the industry.

Claire McEvoy, Alta Hair Studio @AltaHairStudio

With more than 35 years' experience under her belt, Claire McEvoy is a seasoned hairstylist with a passion for education. Claire's latest venture, Alta Hair Studio, caught the eye of R.E.M. salon furniture, who featured the salon in an article praising Claire's eco-friendly approach to every aspect of the salon. From restoration and refit to the client experience, Claire is dedicated to making sustainable choices and reducing her salon's carbon footprint. Knowing her journey alone is not enough, Claire is committed to sharing her knowledge and encouraging other hairdressers to adopt sustainable practices.

Lorraine Naughton, OB1 Hair – @Lorraine_OB1

Owner of OB-1 Hair, Lorraine Naughton is a self-proclaimed sustainability warrior. Lorraine has been self-employed in various industries since the 90s, but her latest venture into sustainability is by far the most exciting yet. Working closely with industry leaders like L'Oréal Professionnel Paris, GSC, and Image Skillnet to encourage sustainability and reduce carbon emissions, Lorraine is on a mission to help other salons across Ireland and the UK join the sustainable movement via her consultancy business. Her dedication and passion for sustainability are sure to convert many salons to shout about their sustainable practices and join the fight to save our planet.

Ryan Crawford, Crawford Hair – @RyanCrawford.Hair

Co-owner of the award-winning eco-conscious Crawford Hair Salon in Stony Stratford, Milton Keynes, Ryan is a master of juggling a busy salon while being a dad to his four young boys. As an eco-conscious parent, Ryan's biggest goal is for the salon to achieve B-Corp status. With a passion for composting, Ryan uses his salon's waste, such as towels, tea, coffee and hair, to feed his thriving vegetable garden at his allotment. When he's not in the salon or tending to his veggies, he's out on his paddle board cleaning up polluted spots in rivers and canals. With his dedication and commitment to sustainability, Ryan is always looking for ways to set a good example for his children and inspire his team and clients to be more environmentally aware.

Lacey Hunter-Felton, Hunter Collective – @LaceyHunterFelton

Founder of renowned co-working space Hunter Collective, Lacey is a passionate hairdresser and industry leader. Hunter Collective brings together a community of inspired, talented, and exceptional hair artists from across the world. Since founding HC and becoming a mother, Lacey was inspired to search for solutions to reduce the negative impacts of hair industry waste and protect our natural world. With a focus to connect and empower hairdressers on a global scale, Lacey is a proud Green Libertine and Ambassador for Green Salon Collective.

Adam Reed, Arkive by Adam Reed – @AdamReedHair

Fascinated by the world around him, Adam's love for hair goes beyond the technical aspects of the craft. He is drawn to the rawness, texture, colour, and feel of hair. His creative process is inspired by everything from shoes and perfumes to cities and tattoos. He believes that good hair is not created in a vacuum, and that the best ideas come from being open to everything around you. In addition to his work in the beauty industry, Adam is passionate about sustainability and eco-living. He understands the importance of taking care of the planet and strives to incorporate environmentally friendly practices into his work whenever possible.

Ky Wilson, The Social LDN – @KyCutWilson

Based in London, Ky is the founder of The Social, a multi-award-winning space that has become a go-to destination for the fashion-forward. With over a decade of experience in the industry, Ky has established himself as a leading authority on hair, known for his unique ability to transform a client's look with precision and style. His work has been featured in top publications such as Vogue, Harper's Bazaar, and Elle, and he has collaborated with some of the biggest names in fashion and beauty. As a dedicated educator, Ky shares his knowledge and expertise through masterclasses and seminars around the world. He is committed to nurturing the next generation of hair professionals, empowering them to excel in the industry while always considering the environment and ensuring sustainability is at the forefront.

Ashleigh Hodges - @Ashleigh_Hodges_Hair

From photoshoots in New York and creating chic styles for TV to presenting to packed arenas globally and looking after clients in the salon, Ashleigh is sought-after the world over. Multiple award-winning all-rounder Ashleigh brings creativity and inspiration to everything she does. Sustainability and wellbeing are extremely important to Ashleigh, creating #12monthsofsustainability and #wellbeingwednesday series, now partnering with Davines as their Global Colour Ambassador. The role sees her supporting Hair Art Director Tom Connell on collections, education and show work. So, if you're looking for a tribe of likeminded hair and beauty lovers who care about the planet as much as you do, look no further than the Green Libertines. Together, we'll revolutionise the industry and make the world a better place, one hairstyle at a time. Did you know that by ensuring that each member of your team is empowered to help, small changes can boost sustainability in your salon? Here's how.