Salon owners can inspire environmental change by embodying sustainable practices themselves, according to Buller and Rice co-founders Stephen Buller and Anita Rice. They assign specific responsibilities to staff, fostering shared commitment to reducing waste. Glasshouse Salon founder Olivia Crighton prioritised furniture made from reclaimed and recycled materials during a 2021 relocation. Takara Belmont offers furniture designed for longevity and energy efficiency.
Olivia Crighton advises scrutinising all business aspects for sustainability, from local drink suppliers to combating colour waste. This proactive approach to best practices can yield long-term benefits.
Salon managers can secure better energy deals and partner with initiatives like Green Salon Collective. GSC facilitates recycling of difficult-to-process materials, often through a discretionary £1-2 client fee, which most salons find cost-neutral or profitable.
Hairstylists can promote sustainable products to clients, educating them on environmental and hair health advantages. Brands like Davines support climate action through initiatives like We Sustain Beauty. Maria Nila partners with Plan Vivo to fund tree planting in Central America. Leaf Scissors plants at least 10 trees per pair sold, having planted over 162,000 since 2019.
Colour waste reduction is addressed by Charlie Miller, Edinburgh, using Vish software. This tool revealed that younger stylists mixed more colour than experienced ones, enabling clearer usage guidelines. Green Salon Collective also recycles colour tubes and foil. Organic Colour Systems, manufactured locally and using Soil Association certified organic ingredients, offers ammonia-free, paraben-free colour in 100% recyclable bottles made from post-consumer waste.
Blue Tit salon encourages assistants to propose waste-reducing ideas, recently engaging with a company suggested by a junior team member. Monthly B-Corp actions are recognised. At Buller and Rice, assistants collect hair clippings for Green Salon Collective's oil spill absorption cushions.
Front of house staff at Buller and Rice and Blue Tit manage refill stations for shampoos and conditioners. Glasshouse Salon offers a 10% discount for refilling Oway and OSC bottles. Engaging the entire team streamlines sustainability efforts.
