At Neroli Salon & Spa, we believe that beauty should be a force for good. We are dedicated to enhancing our guests’ well-being, but also to preserving our planet. The beauty industry has long been associated with excessive waste, water consumption, and environmental damage, but we believe in a different path—a cleaner one. One that prioritizes sustainability without compromising luxury and quality. That’s why we use Aveda products on our guests, a brand that leads the way in eco-friendly beauty. Aveda’s mission statement is one that Neroli Salon & Spa follows;
“Our mission at Aveda is to care for the world we live in, from the products we make to the ways in which we give back to society. At Aveda, we strive to set an example for environmental leadership and responsibility, not just in the world of beauty, but around the world.”
This earth month, we’ll explore why sustainability in the beauty industry is crucial, the environmental impact of makeup and haircare, and how Aveda helps us align with our similar missions.
The Beauty Industry’s Environmental Impact
The beauty industry is a multi-billion-dollar sector that produces millions of products every year, but with that comes a significant environmental footprint. Many beauty brands contribute to excessive waste, pollution, and unsustainable water usage. Understanding these impacts is essential in making informed choices as consumers and beauty professionals.
Packaging Waste: The Ugly Side of Beauty
One of the most significant environmental issues within the beauty industry is packaging waste. According to the Plastic Pollution Coalition, the cosmetics industry produces more than 120 billion units of packaging every year, most of which are made from non-recyclable plastics. What’s even more concerning is that 95% of this packaging is thrown away after just one use, ultimately ending up in landfills or our oceans.
Many beauty products use plastic containers with mixed materials, making them difficult or impossible to recycle. Without significant efforts to reduce packaging waste, the industry will continue to contribute to the growing global plastic crisis.
Water Consumption in Beauty Routines
Water is a precious resource, yet the beauty industry is one of the largest consumers of water. According to Euromonitor, the beauty industry used around 10.4 million tons of water in 2020 alone. From product manufacturing to consumer use (like washing hair and removing makeup), the demand for water in beauty is immense.
In addition, shampoos, conditioners, and skincare products often contain unnecessary water as a filler ingredient. By adopting water-conscious habits and choosing waterless or water-efficient products, we can play a role in reducing water waste.
How Aveda Leads the Way in Sustainable Beauty
At Neroli Salon & Spa, we have made a conscious choice to partner with Aveda because of its deep-rooted commitment to sustainability. Aveda has set the standard for eco-friendly beauty brands by making sustainability a core aspect of its business.
1. 100% Vegan and Cruelty-Free
Aveda was one of the first major beauty brands to become 100% vegan, meaning no animal-derived ingredients are used in its formulas. This is a significant step in reducing environmental impact, as animal agriculture contributes to deforestation, excessive water usage, and carbon emissions. Additionally, Aveda has been a long-time supporter of cruelty-free testing, ensuring that no animals are harmed in the process of making their products.
2. Eco-Friendly Packaging
Unlike many beauty brands that rely on single-use plastic, Aveda prioritizes sustainable packaging. Many of its bottles and jars are made from 100% post-consumer recycled materials, reducing the need for new plastic production. The brand is also moving toward refillable and biodegradable packaging options, minimizing waste even further.
3. Renewable Energy and Carbon Neutrality
Aveda was the first beauty company to manufacture its products using 100% wind power. By investing in renewable energy sources, the brand significantly reduces its carbon footprint. Additionally, Aveda has achieved carbon neutrality by offsetting emissions and continuously working toward more sustainable manufacturing processes.
4. Water Conservation Efforts
Aveda understands the importance of reducing water waste, which is why many of its products are formulated to be water-efficient or waterless. The brand has also partnered with organizations that focus on clean water initiatives, helping to provide safe drinking water to communities in need. Since 1999, Aveda has raised more than $72 million for hundreds of global and local organizations, providing clean water to more than 1.5 million people.
Sustainability at Neroli Salon & Spa
As an Aveda partner salon, we are deeply committed to sustainability and incorporate eco-friendly practices into our daily operations.
1. Reducing Waste in Our Salon
We take conscious steps to minimize waste at Neroli Salon & Spa by recycling beauty product containers and encouraging clients to do the same. We also provide guests with reusable or biodegradable alternatives for disposable beauty products. We offer makeup removing products that are more sustainable than makeup wipes.
2. Sustainable Salon Services
Our services are designed with sustainability in mind:
- Hair Treatments: We use Aveda’s plant-based hair color, which is free from synthetic dyes and harsh chemicals.
- Facials & Skincare: Our facials feature Aveda’s botanical skincare line, reducing exposure to harmful synthetic ingredients.
- Water-Conscious Haircare: We educate our clients on using water-efficient products and techniques at home. We also offer in-store products that help with conserving water, like showerheads and dry shampoo for example.
3. Supporting Ethical Sourcing
Aveda’s ingredients are ethically and sustainably sourced. This means they support local communities and do not contribute to deforestation or habitat destruction. By choosing Aveda, we are indirectly supporting sustainable agriculture and fair-trade practices.
4. Community Involvement & Environmental Initiatives
We don’t just talk about sustainability—we act:
- Partnering with local environmental organizations for clean-up events.
- Hosting sustainability-focused workshops to educate our clients on eco-conscious beauty.
- Participating in Aveda’s Earth Month campaigns to raise funds for clean water projects.
How You Can Join the Movement?
Sustainability is a collective effort, and small changes in our beauty routines can make a big impact. Here are some simple steps you can take to be more eco-friendly:
- Choose Sustainable Brands: Support beauty brands like Aveda and Ultraceuticals that prioritize sustainability and ethical sourcing.
- Recycle Your Products: Properly dispose of beauty product packaging by recycling whenever possible.
- Reduce Water Waste: Take shorter showers and turn off the tap while washing your face or brushing your teeth.
- Opt for Multi-Use Products: Reduce excess consumption by choosing multi-functional products (e.g., Aveda’s Instant Luminzer works as a moisturizer and primer for makeup).
- Refill and Reuse: Purchase refillable products instead of single-use containers.
Final Thoughts: A More Beautiful Future
At Neroli Salon & Spa, we believe that beauty should never come at the cost of the environment. By making sustainable choices and supporting eco-conscious brands like Aveda, we can enjoy high-quality beauty experiences while preserving the planet for future generations.
We invite you to join us this Earth Month in fundraising for the Milwaukee Riverkeeper. Stop in and see how you can make an impact in your community. Together, we can redefine the beauty industry—one eco-friendly choice at a time. Stop in or book an appointment with us today and experience the difference of sustainable beauty at Neroli Salon & Spa!
