Grassroots a salon has always donated to various charitable local organizations that help strengthen and build a better community. We wanted to expand our awareness and try something a little bit different by attempting to help a cause on a more global level. With this most recent oil spill, Grassroots has come in contact with the Matter of Trust Organization. This Organization collects hair clippings in recycled boxes lined with large plastic garbage bags. The swept hair is shipped to specific US manufacturers who weave them into mats that can soak up oil and clean our beaches and habors.
There are over 37,000 hair salons in the US that collect an average of 1 lb. of hair a day. Right now, most of the hair goes into the waste stream, but it could all be made into hair mats.
Recycled hair clippings are also made into hair “booms” which are sausage shape. Hair is stuffed into recycled nylons (with mesh to provide a strong exterior). These booms are then tied together and used to encircle and contain oil spills to keep oil from spreading. They protect fragile coves and habitats.
The Exxon-Valdez oil spill in Alaska inspired hair stylist, Phil McCrory, to invent the hair mat in 1989. Since 2000, Matter of Trust has partnered with Phil and now Thousands of salons to help decontaminate water ways, prevent soil erosion, and create green jobs.
So the next time you come in to Grassroots a Salon to receive your haircut, not only will you feel great from your new “do” on the outside. But feel good from the inside, knowing your hair was donated to a greater cause.
Grassroots-Nurturing your beauty from the ground up!
