THUNDER BAY -- It takes a lot of product to make your hair look this good but your beauty doesn't have to be bad for your environment.
A second local salon has been certified through Green Circle Salons, an organization providing waste management and recycling programs for hairdressing companies.
Evoke Salon + Spa joined Streak of Green this week among the industry's most environmentally progressive, disposing of 459 pounds of salon waste over the past nine months.
Amanda Benincasa, owner and lead stylist of Evoke Salon + Spa said since signing up for Green Circle last spring, her staff has been able to divert 75 to 95 per cent of waste through the program.
She praised the cerifying agency's capacity to assist in making products recyclable despite local limitations.
"They are quick to take things that you aren't equipped to deal with in your community." Benincasa said.
The program allows the salon to recycle colour tubes, metals, foils, paper, plastics and helps redirect its excess hair chemicals from being rinsed down the drain.
One of the program's unique features is how it repurposes the hair cut from customers.
The hair is sent to a women's correctional facility where they make boons, absorbent mats used to assist in oil spill cleanups.
Benincasa believes it's important to be part of a movement that is promoting environmental responsibility.
"We work in an industry that poses many challenges to the environment, and is often criticized for the waste and pollution generated," she said.
"Everyone has the opportunity to do their part and I think it's important for themselves and for future generations."
