How Salons Can Embrace Eco-Conscious Practices
Businesses everywhere are implementing methods to reduce their carbon footprint and minimize waste. Customer demand reflects this growing interest and concern. According to the Harvard Business Review, the spike in eco-conscious business practices is only going to increase.
In response, many industries are adapting to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly practices. Salons and spas are no exception.
Adopting eco-conscious practices is not only beneficial for the environment but also appeals to a clientele who values sustainability.
At Canyon River Spa, we take pride in being an eco-friendly salon, committed to implementing sustainable practices and reducing our environmental impact. Over the years, we’ve adopted several initiatives to reduce our environmental footprint, promote sustainability, and provide a healthier experience for our clients.
While we continue to learn and educate others, we strive to set new standards in sustainability and wellness, ensuring a brighter, greener future for our community and the planet.
Here are some valuable insights we've gathered that we’d like to share with those looking to implement sustainable solutions in their spas, or for anyone looking to choose an eco-friendly spa to visit.
Why It Matters
For a salon to be eco-conscious, it must minimize environmental impact across operations. This could include using non-toxic products, reducing waste, and implementing recycling programs.
The Importance of Eco-Conscious Salon Practices
Adopting eco-conscious salon practices can have several significant benefits:
Environmental Impact: The beauty industry produces a considerable amount of waste. By adopting sustainable practices, salons can reduce their contribution to landfills and pollution and help preserve the environment for future generations.
Health Benefits: Non-toxic, sustainable products are safer for clients and staff.
Customer Appeal: Many clients, especially younger ones, prefer businesses that align with their values, including sustainability.
Brand Reputation: Embracing eco-conscious practices builds a salon’s reputation as a responsible and forward-thinking business.
Tips for Implementing Eco-Conscious Practices in Your Salon
Conduct an Environmental Audit: Assess your current practices and identify areas for improvement. Look at energy use, product choices, and waste management.
Choose Sustainable Products: Partner with brands that prioritize sustainability. Look for products that are organic, cruelty-free, and packaged in recyclable materials. At Canyon River Spa, we source our eco-friendly salon products from Aveda, a leader in sustainable solutions for the beauty and wellness industry.
Reduce Water and Energy Use: Install low-flow fixtures, use energy-efficient lighting, and maintain your HVAC systems.
Implement a Recycling Program: Incorporate recycling stations, or find ways to repurpose items that can live another life in your salon.
Educate Your Staff and Clients: Provide training for your staff on eco-friendly practices and inform your clients about your steps. This can build a sense of community and shared values.
Case Study: Canyon River Spa
During our many years in business, we’ve learned from amazing people and partners how to care for the Earth and intentionally bring more beauty and connection to our world. Let’s take a moment to consider Canyon River Spa as a case study for eco-conscious salon practices.
Partnering with Green Circle Salons
Green Circle Salons is a recycling program designed specifically for the beauty industry. According to a 2022 article, Green Circle members have kept a total of 8.3 million pounds of beauty waste from entering landfills and waterways since 2009.
By partnering with Green Circle, Canyon River Spa ensures that up to 95% of our salon waste is recycled or repurposed. This includes hair clippings, foils, aerosol cans, and would-be single-use plastics.
Hair Clippings: Collected hair is repurposed or composted, with one application being the creation of hair booms for oil spill cleanups.
Foils and Color Tubes: These are cleaned and recycled, preventing them from ending up in landfills.
Chemical Waste: Leftover hair color and other chemicals are disposed of responsibly, ensuring they don’t contaminate water supplies.
Using eco-friendly hair styling products is a great start, but consider what happens to the waste that’s inevitably generated.
Using Sustainable Products
Canyon River Spa partners with Aveda, a brand that has pioneered environmental leadership since 1978 and is renowned for its commitment to the well-being of people, animals, and the planet. Aveda’s products are made with natural, vegan ingredients and packaged in recyclable materials.
They go above and beyond in their commitment to sustainability by generously giving to nonprofits that tackle crucial environmental issues. As an Aveda partner, Canyon River Spa is proud to join them in these efforts by donating to charity: water to bring clean water to more people.
Water and Energy Conservation
Speaking of, water and energy are two significant resources used in salons. Here’s how Canyon River Spa minimizes its consumption:
On-Demand Water Heaters: These save energy by heating water only when needed, reducing overall energy consumption.
ECOHEADS Shower Nozzles: Installed at our shampoo bowls, these nozzles combine air and a filter to deliver more pressure without using more water, significantly reducing water usage.
Energy-Efficient Appliances: All our appliances are EE rated, using less energy and contributing to lower utility bills.Low-Flow Fixtures: Installing low-flow faucets and showerheads helps reduce water usage without compromising on client experience.
Energy-Efficient Lighting: Switching to LED lighting reduces energy consumption and lowers electricity bills.
Efficient HVAC Systems: Maintaining and upgrading heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems to more efficient models reduces energy use and improves comfort.
Waste Reduction and Recycling
Beyond Green Circle Salons, Canyon River Spa has implemented additional waste reduction measures:
Digital Records: We reduce paper use by maintaining digital records and using electronic communication.
Recycling Stations: Recycling stations are easily accessible throughout the salon for staff and clients.
Reusable Materials: We opt for reusable towels and capes instead of disposable ones.
Become a Leader in Salon Sustainability
Embracing eco-conscious salon practices is not just a trend; it’s a responsibility and a step towards a more sustainable future.
By following the example set by other businesses and becoming an eco-friendly salon, you can reduce our environmental impact, appeal to a broader clientele, and build a stronger, more positive brand image.
The shift to sustainability may require some initial effort, but the long-term benefits for the environment, your clients, and your business are well worth it. As the demand for eco-friendly services grows, now is the perfect time to make your salon a leader in green practices.
