The first ever eco-friendly beauty palour has been launched at the heart of Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) to meet the growing consumer demand for high quality affordable services whilst addressing environment concerns.
The Borderless Salon, Barbershop and Spa, located at Bruce House on Standard Street, emphasises on use of sustainable salon products that reduces use of plastic by embracing those with glass packaging. It is designed to ensure circular and sustainable practices at every stage of service delivery.
Eco-friendly heaters and washers fitted with thermostats have been installed at the facility to reduce electricity and water consumption, respectively. It is also implementing the use of LED lighting and has adopted use of plants instead of air purifiers to detoxify the salon and barbershop.
The National Defence University – Kenya Deputy Vice Chancellor for academic affairs, research and climate change expert Prof. Anne Muigai who presided over the launch noted that salons and spas have a big impact on the environment in terms of plastic waste and use of excess water hence the need to come up with more sustainable solutions.
Ms Muigai said a growing number of players in cosmetics and personal care are realizing the environmental impact of standard ingredients and raw materials used in formulas and packaging, as well as during product usage and adjusting according to contribute to solving the climate crisis.
“With preservation of biodiversity in mind, salons, barbershops and spas must also do their bit for the planet by employing eco-friendly and sustainable products and practices and continue to raise awareness for the wider climate change struggle,” she said.
The beauty and personal care industry is among the world’s largest polluters. According to Euromonitor International research organisation, 152.1 billion units of beauty and personal-care packaging were sold globally in 2018 alone, much of which will never be recycled.
The facility comprises eight regular and one VIP barbershop, seven salon, six spa and pedicure, and five manicure stations; two movable foot spa; five sink and three finishing areas; and one facial and two massage rooms. It can accommodate up to 40 clients at ago.
The Spa Manager, Jackline Njeru, said there has been increased concern about the environment impact of the cosmetics and personal care industry and the Borderless Salon, Barbershop and Spa offers the right solutions for the discerning client looking for sustainable choices, affordability and professionalism.
“Many people think they have to give up their lifestyles to be sustainable, but it really comes down to just finding better alternatives,” said Ms Njeru.
