‘Green’ salon owner wants to be even more sustainable

A HAIRDRESSER from Henley took park in a conservation project to learn how her business can become even more sustainable.

Nicole Hewitt, who owns Salon of Chi in Reading Road, visited the Earth Trust Farm in Little Wittenham with representatives of Oway, an organic hair product brand which the salon uses.

They were joined by environmental campaigner Lynne Lambourne, from Peppard.

They were shown around the farm and helped clear vegetation from the bank of the River Thames.

Ms Hewitt, whose business was the first in Henley to become plastic-free, said: “It was really insightful.

“We recycle hair and one of the things it is used for is to clear oil from natural water sources. We use eco-heads on our taps to reduce our water usage by 65 per cent.

“While most salons shampoo people twice, we try to do it just once for people with relatively clean hair.

“We also try to keep chemicals out of the water system by recycling them and our towels are compostable.

“We use LED lights, our boiler is on a timer and we have a green energy supplier.

“Next year we want to focus on soil, which is like the skin of the earth. I’ve had this salon for 17 years and this research and education allows me to contribute and grow as a human being and understand this planet more.”

The salon started adding an optional £1 green fee charge to customers’ bills about 18 months ago to help with the cost of recycling.

The surplus from these funds, about £1,500, was donated to the Earth Trust.

Mrs Lambourne, founder of Warriors on Waste, said: “We had a lovely day. Leaves from trees fall into the river so we were clearing them, which was really hard work but fun.

“I’m really chuffed that Salon of Chi does something like this. So many companies just say they’ll plant a tree but the salon is doubling its contribution by actually getting out there and they’re getting their hands dirty and learning.

“I only align myself and work with companies that are kind to the planet as well as customers. They’re really knowledgeable about sustainability and they do so much. They’re my tribe.”

Daichinii Lee-Hewitt, who runs Ananci, a marketing consultancy for sustainable brands, organised the event.

She said: “It’s all about improving the local environment and raising awareness. It is so important that we keep learning. There is always something you can do.

“It’s easy to assume that there aren’t new ways to help improve the planet and community but there always are.”

The event was also attended by Tim Barry, from Henley, who runs Bikeable, which provides bicycles to hotels and businesses.