How can we remain accountable when moving toward sustainability? In the past several articles, we have spoken about issues that range from technology to human touch. In this issue, we will switch our attention to sustainability. The definition of sustainability is the avoidance of depletion of
natural resources to maintain an ecological balance.

Whether it is sustainability within the environment or within our culture at Salon Services, it is our mission to touch both. We seek to align ourselves with vendors who are committed to making a positive impact on people and the environment, just as we are.

Davines and Comfort Zone have demonstrated their commitment to sustainability through their achievement of B Corporation Certification, meaning they meet the highest standards of overall social and environmental performance, transparency and accountability.

Kevin Murphy utilizes packaging that is recyclable or biodegradable. They use natural ingredients from sources that are sustainable and renewable. They have partnered with Green Circle Salons to bring awareness to sustainable waste management. Kevin Murphy has created the GREEN.SALON Project, 4ocean, and collaborates with the Climate Change Reality Project.

Loma has been leading the charge with their philosophy to maintain a renewable and sustainable process. All of their packaging is recyclable and requires a minimum of 25% post-recyclable plastic. Their manufacturing facility generates little waste; recycling everything from raw material drums to cardboard and plastic.

Salon Services has also taken measures to be sustainable with the following efforts:

• Installation of solar panels at our corporate headquarters to generate power and offset our carbon footprint.
• Last month we generated 5.92 MWh, which is enough energy to power 971 homes!
• Utilization of environmentally friendly packing materials in our Distribution Center
• Partnership with Green Circle Salons to ensure our education classrooms are recycling hair clippings, color tubes, and other class materials
• Introduction of software to support a paperless internal environment; customers can also choose to have their receipts emailed instead of printed
• Commitment and partnership with Wings of Karen, Justice and Soul, Hairtostay, and the Professional Beauty Association

Most recently, we are taking new steps to go digital! We’ve previously utilized the Viewpoint catalog to be our vehicle of information regarding promotions and new upcoming product launches. In retrospect, we all agree that this is an old philosophy.

We are excited to announce that this will be the last “paper” Viewpoint! Don’t worry, we will still have all promotions available digitally. Our mission is to create a more integrated approach with our Business Consultants in sharing the excitement and planning surrounding our upcoming promotions and product launches. Otherwise, you can view and shop on your own time, online, and plan appropriately for your business.

What do you believe in? If your brand was a person, how would you describe her/him? Once you determine your brand voice, illustrate it with who you partner with, in your products, and your actions with your staff and clients (this is how we do it here). We ask for your business with Salon Services, due to who we are and the choices we make!

Sydney Berry, Owner and President & George Learned, Owner and Vice President