The hair and beauty industry is increasingly embracing sustainability practices, recognizing the importance of reducing environmental impact and promoting eco-friendly choices. Salons are adopting various measures to improve waste management, reduce energy and water usage, and minimise their carbon footprint. This shift towards sustainability aligns with the growing consumer demand for environmentally conscious products and services. According to a statistic published by Simply Organic, the North American salon industry produces 421,206 pounds of waste every day, resulting in 150 million pounds annually. This staggering amount of waste highlights the urgency for salons to prioritise sustainability.
The Green Circle Salon initiative is gaining traction in the industry, encouraging salons to divert waste from landfills and water systems. Certified Green Circle Salons ensure that hair, foils, colour tubes, plastics, papers, and chemicals used within the salon are recycled or repurposed, resulting in a significant reduction in waste.
Umesh Madan, CEO and Founder of Book My Makeup, underscores the company’s shift towards digitalization, which has significantly aided their promotion of sustainable practices. Leveraging their app for efficient scheduling has allowed them to optimise salon resources like space, equipment, and staff, leading to reduced energy usage and waste. Madan further elaborates on the app’s role in advocating sustainability, stating how it mitigates environmental impact. Through the elimination of paper-based appointments and the transition to digital transactions, the app reduces overall paper consumption, promoting a more eco-friendly approach while contributing to environmental and social responsibility.
Salons are increasingly offering organic and eco-friendly hair and beauty products to meet the demand for sustainable options. These products are formulated with natural ingredients, free from harmful chemicals, and often come in recyclable or biodegradable packaging. By using these products, salons can minimise their environmental impact and provide healthier alternatives for their clients.
Danish Batra, the Founder and Managing Director of Hair Masters, emphasises their commitment to utilising environmentally friendly and cruelty-free hair and beauty products. Batra highlights their preference for products containing natural and organic ingredients, minimal packaging, and a strict avoidance of animal testing.
Many salons are also implementing energy-efficient lighting systems, such as LED lights, and utilising water-saving technologies to reduce their energy and water consumption. By adopting these measures, salons can significantly lower their carbon footprint and contribute to a more sustainable future.
RTM Watch’s Take
The integration of sustainability practices in hair and beauty salons is a positive step towards a greener and more environmentally conscious industry. As consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental impact of their choices, salons that prioritise sustainability will gain a competitive edge. By implementing initiatives like Green Circle Salons, offering organic and eco-friendly products, and conserving energy and water, salons can not only reduce their environmental footprint but also attract and retain eco-conscious clientele. Embracing sustainability is not only a responsible choice but also a strategic business move in today’s market.
