Taking a Stand on Waste: How Lash Professionals are Pushing for Recyclability
Let's tackle the big question, is recycling genuinely essential for individuals and lash business owners alike? Today, we're diving into a topic that's not only close to our hearts but pivotal for the sustainability of our planet - recycling. You might think, "I've heard it all before," but bear with us.
In the beauty realm, where the appeal of our services often casts a shadow over the urgent call for sustainability, one must ask: How crucial is recycling, really? For us at London Lash, a frontrunner in sustainable lash extensions globally, the necessity of recycling couldn't be clearer. Shockingly, according to insights from California Review Management, a staggering 32.1% of waste in the American recycling system fails to be recycled or composted. Even more concerning, Douglas Main highlights that only about 5% - 6% of plastics are reincorporated into the recycling system annually in the United States!
So, why does recycling matter, and how can you, as a Lash Tech, contribute to change? Let's explore actionable steps towards fostering a sustainable lash industry.
Understanding recycling
Recycling, at its essence, is about transforming waste back into valuable materials, reducing the need for new resources, cutting down energy use, and decreasing landfill accumulation. Essentially, recycling is our ace in the battle against pollution and in preserving our planet for future generations.
Your role as a lash technician
As Lash Artists, we hold influence in the beauty sector and beyond - be it directly to our clientele or through our social media presence. You, the pillars of our industry, wield the power to shape industry standards and consumer habits.
By championing recycling and sustainability, we set a precedent, motivating both colleagues and clients towards adopting eco-friendly practices. Here's how:
- Educate Yourself and Others: Arm yourself with knowledge about your local recycling rules. What's recyclable? How should it be done? Pass these valuable insights onto your clients and through your social channels.
- Opt for Sustainable Lash Brands: While we don't mean to boast, at London Lash, we prioritize eco-conscious practices, from carbon-neutral shipping and recyclable product packaging to guiding Lash Techs on eco-friendly practices. Choosing products from brands committed to sustainability is a significant stride towards greener operations.
- Embrace the Three Rs in Your Salon: Integrating recycling bins for paper, plastic, and metal waste in your workspace is straightforward yet impactful. Repurposing old product containers for organization or small accessories is another step forward, and for those uninterested, our lash trays are fully recyclable!
- Promote Sustainable Products: Utilize biodegradable, recyclable, or reusable products to minimize environmental impact. At London Lash, we proudly offer an array of eco-friendly lash supplies that don't compromise on quality.
- Sustainable Client Aftercare: Suggest eco-friendly aftercare products and explain the importance of proper disposal of lash-related waste, like switching disposable lash wands for reusable options. Consider initiating a recycling program for product containers to further reduce waste.
Is London Lash paving the way for sustainability?
At London Lash, our sustainability efforts are more than just talk. We've embedded our commitment to eco-friendliness into our operational DNA. Here's how we're making a difference:
- Carbon-Neutral Shipping: We've taken steps to ensure all deliveries are carbon-neutral by investing in environmental projects.
- Eco-Friendly Packaging: We've replaced bubble wrap with paper alternatives, swapped polystyrene chips for water-dissolvable options, and transitioned to biodegradable bagging for lash trays, alongside introducing mostly recyclable or biodegradable mailing bags.
- Product Sustainability: We're phasing out plastic bottles in favour of recyclable glass options, redesigning our paper lash boxes for full recyclability, and offering metal reusable handles for disposables, significantly reducing waste.
- London Lash Outlet: Instead of discarding imperfect products, we offer them at a discount for practice use, minimizing waste and landfill contribution.
Uniting for a sustainable future
The beauty industry stands at an intersection, balancing consumer expectations with environmental stewardship. As lash experts, we are uniquely positioned to drive change towards a more sustainable, eco-aware sector. By embracing recycling and promoting sustainable practices, we contribute not just to the beauty of our clients, but to the health and future of our planet. Recycling transcends environmental duty; it's a pledge towards ensuring a brighter future for all. Together, let's take a stand against waste, fostering an industry that values innovation, beauty, and sustainability equally!
