Green GOALS

Being more sustainable can often feel overwhelming. Which is why we put together a checklist of 10 sustainable goals to focus on in 2025

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1 SAVE YOUR ENERGY

Reducing the energy you use is going to significantly help reduce your carbon emissions. “Speak to your energy supplier about using renewable sources,” advises Terry Wilson, Hair Organics Notting Hill. “I would recommend changing your lights to LED eco saving lightbulbs.” Meanwhile, Anne Veck shares: “Switch off your electrical tools when not in use, and don’t leave them charging overnight. Have motion sensor timers in rooms that aren’t always occupied and turn your thermostat down by a few degrees!”

2 USE NATURAL CLEANING PRODUCTS

Cleaning your salon is essential but it’s important to think about the products you are using.

Are they free from harsh chemicals? Are they biodegradable? Do you use disposable paper towels or reusable cloths?

3 CUT DOWN YOUR COLOUR WASTE

There are a number of colour management software companies that can help you reduce your colour waste. This not only helps you save money, but it also minimises the disposal of chemicals.

4 LOOK AT YOUR BRAND PARTNERS

“What are their credentials? Are the products sulphate-free? Sodium lauryl sulphate is used in some shampoos, and it’s made from palm oil,” says Mel Tudor, En Route Hair & Beauty. “Deforestation of the rainforest to plant palm oil has a huge impact – we rely on the rainforest to absorb CO² and release oxygen.”

5 GO PAPERLESS!

“Scrapping paper forms and receipts for digital versions helps save trees and reduce the energy and resources used in paper production, as well as the carbon footprint for transporting, storing and disposing of it,” says Santi Figueroa, owner of Santiago Figueroa London. “Plus, it saves time and makes for secure record keeping.”

6 OPT FOR DISPOSABLE TOWELS

“We’ve been using biodegradable towels for 15 years, to replace unnecessary use of washing machines and dryers,” Terry tells us. “This is a game changer, clients love it!” Similarly, Mel tells us: “When we first introduced disposable towels, it was daunting and we worried clients wouldn’t like the change, but we’ve never looked back.”

SANTIAGO FIGUEROA LONDON

7 EDUCATE YOUR STAFF

As the saying goes, ‘knowledge is power’. And by upskilling your team, you can all make a conscious effort to ensure your salon remains consistent in your sustainability efforts. Plus, it’s a great conversation to have with clients! Not only will your clients appreciate your efforts and ethos, but it can also lead to an increase in client loyalty.

8 RECYCLE, RECYCLE, RECYCLE

With lots of companies around to collect salon waste, recycling has never been easier. “We recycle all of our waste in the salon with Green Salon Collective,” Mel tells us. “All the contaminated metals, hair, plastics, and soft plastics. It pays for itself if you charge an eco-fee, which we add to each client’s bill.” Meanwhile, Santi, advises: “Educate your team and clients about appropriate recycling practices and ensure everyone is aware if you implement new processes.”

9 SAVE WATER

We all know that water consumption is unavoidable for most client services, but thinking about things cleverly makes all the difference. “Use warm water rather than hot and install a water saving device at the backwash,” Anne advises. (And don’t forget if you make the change to disposable towels, you’ll be saving a huge amount of water too!).

10 INCLUDE YOUR INTERIOR

Look for furniture companies with the same values as you. Consider the longevity of the furniture. Can you opt for upcycled furniture? Eco-friendly materials? When you come to update your salon’s interior, thinking about all the options can make a huge difference to being more sustainable.10