At American Salon, we're passionate about discovering individuals and companies who are making significant strides in the beauty industry, especially when it comes to sustainability. Recently, we stumbled upon Green Circle Salons, a company that's revolutionizing the way we manage beauty waste. They recycle up to 95% of waste, diverting it from landfills and minimizing carbon footprint.
Green Circle Salons states they are the industry's first sustainable salon and spa solution, providing a way to fight beauty waste and climate change. Green Circle Salon has released its first Circle of Impact Report. This comprehensive report takes an in-depth look at the effects of salon waste on our planet and provides insights into how we can minimize waste.
Their data shows that the salon industry in the US and Canada generates a staggering 877 pounds of waste per minute, with hair clippings, metals, and hair coloring being the largest contributors. For example, 63,000 pounds of hair are thrown away every day, contributing to methane gas emissions that are harmful to the environment. Similarly, the US and Canada discard 110,000 pounds of metal each year, which is equivalent to over half the weight of a commercial airplane. Additionally, 42,000 pounds of excess hair coloring are thrown away daily, causing monetary loss, plumbing difficulties, and creating toxic chemicals that eventually make their way into our water and soil.
“When most people sit down in a stylist’s chair, they’re anticipating a relaxing experience that will leave them looking and feeling great. But neither they—nor, often, the salon professionals—are thinking about the negative impact their craft is having on the planet. But it's not their fault. There hasn’t been enough education about the impact, and in the past, there has been a lack of solutions,” said Shane Price, founder, and CEO of Green Circle Salons.
Despite the fact that 62% of salons now incorporate material recycling, studies show that the vast majority of salons have yet to adopt beauty waste recycling services and many express uncertainties about their current recycling practices. This highlights the need for greater education and awareness about the environmental impact of our industry.
Find the full report here.
At American Salon, we believe that initiatives like those taken by Green Circle Salons are crucial in minimizing waste and combating climate change. We're committed to bringing you the latest updates on sustainability in the beauty industry and applaud companies like Green Circle Salons for their efforts.