With around 73% of global consumers saying they would change their consumption habits to reduce environmental impact, many companies find themselves at a crossroads between conducting business as usual and upholding a commitment to the environment.
Spas are in an even more precarious situation since their ethos is to promote mindful living and a healthy lifestyle. How can you promote these values while trampling Mother Nature’s needs? Even if there are still businesses unwilling to accept the change, customers won’t stand for it.
Therefore, implementing sustainable practices isn’t just about an ethical imperative but also a business-savvy decision. A spa that fails to align with these values risks becoming obsolete in an industry that thrives on its ability to adapt and respond to client values.
In today’s article, we’ll help you discover several sustainable practices and strategies that every spa business that wants to stay relevant should adopt this year.
1. Embracing Eco-Friendly Disposables
Disposable items are part of the spa business model, offering convenience and hygiene. Single-use products, like slippers, gloves, applicators, razors, and more, are used to uphold hygiene standards and prevent cross-contamination between clients.
To keep costs down, most single-use products are made from plastic or contain some sort of plastic material. However, this comes at a cost to the environment, as most discarded items end up in landfills.
This is why savvy spa owners are turning to biodegradable, compostable, or even reusable options. For instance, bamboo toothbrushes can replace plastic ones; towels made from sustainable fibers can take the place of disposable paper versions; and linens laundered with eco-friendly detergents can offer both comfort and cleanliness without the environmental toll.
Consider this: if each one of the 20,000+ spas in the U.S. swapped out just one type of single-use item for a greener alternative, the cumulative effect would be monumental.
Further, incorporating materials that support circular economy principles (whereby products are designed to be reused or easily recycled) not only mitigates waste but also resonates strongly with eco-conscious consumers.
2. Organic Linens: Comfort with a Conscience
Grown without harmful pesticides or chemicals, organic textiles are not only kind to the skin but also kinder to the planet. Plus, they are gentler for those with sensitive skin, so it’s a double win for your business.
But going organic doesn’t stop at a client’s comfort—it’s a major player in sustainability as well. Choosing organically grown linen means supporting farming practices that use less water and promote soil health, both important moves for conserving natural resources.
Furthermore, organic linens last through countless wash cycles, reducing replacement frequency and waste. In essence, durable organic linens help spas cut down on environmental impact while still offering what everyone loves—crisp, fresh sheets ready for relaxation.
3. Nourishment that Sustains the Body and Earth
As a business looking to implement sustainable practices, you need to ensure the safety and happiness of both clients and employees while on-premise.
While customers enjoy top-tier services complemented by eco-friendly products, your team’s well-being is just as crucial to promoting a positive work environment. Here’s where food comes into play.
If you’re offering lunch as part of the benefits package, opt for wholesome, sustainably sourced food options. However, don’t forget about variety since not everyone enjoys the same foods. If possible, collaborate with local catering services that prioritize locally sourced ingredients and plant-based dishes.
If you’re not offering food on-premise, provide your employees with healthy, convenient, and sustainable options. For instance, a meal delivery service can help health-conscious employees enjoy easy-to-prepare delicious keto meals at home. A similar service can provide diet-specific meals for Mediterranean dieters, low-calorie dieters, and so on.
Overall, this is a great opportunity to strengthen your employees’ loyalty and promote good work practices.
4. Mindful Selection of Care Products
The beauty industry contributes to significant waste each year, from discarded containers to chemical runoff. The spa experience is tied to the beauty industry through products used for treatments, such as various creams, oils, and serums.
Therefore, moving towards eco-conscious care products means scrutinizing ingredient lists and sourcing methods. It’s not about merely selecting items that claim to be ‘green’ but understanding their lifecycle, from the origins of ingredients to the packaging they’re housed in.
Look for brands that embrace natural or organic ingredients and are transparent about their supply chains. Also, look into biodegradable packaging or companies investing in refillable options.
A great place to start is with companies that have obtained certifications like Ecocert, B Corporation, or Leaping Bunny—these labels are stamps of approval for practices that respect both nature and animals. Brands leading the charge may incorporate innovative solutions like zero-waste production or harness ethical trade practices that support communities where ingredients are sourced.
Each choice should mitigate environmental harm while nurturing your clientele’s skin and senses. Using sustainable products reduces resource depletion, diminishes pollution, and can foster biodiversity—if sourced responsibly.
5. Cleaning Supplies That Don’t Harm the Planet
The cleanliness of your spa plays a fundamental role in shaping client perceptions and ensuring their health and safety. However, maintaining these sanctuaries of well-being need not come at Earth’s expense.
So be mindful of the type of cleaning products you use. Choose products with biodegradable ingredients over those laden with harsh chemicals. In addition, many eco-friendly cleaners harness the power of natural substances like vinegar and baking soda, which are effective yet gentle on surfaces—and the planet.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when choosing cleaning supplies for your spa:
- Read Labels Carefully: Look for products labeled as ‘eco-friendly,’ ‘green,’ or ‘biodegradable.’ However, don’t stop there – check ingredient lists for specifics rather than rely solely on marketing terms.
- Check for Certifications: Eco-labels such as Green Seal, EcoLogo, or Safer Choice signify that a product meets strict environmental standards set by independent organizations.
- Assess Ingredients: Favor products with plant-based ingredients over those containing phosphates, chlorine, or artificial fragrances and dyes, which can be harmful to wildlife and ecosystems when washed down the drain.
- Opt for Concentrated Formulas: They often use less packaging and require less fuel for transport per cleaning session.
- Choose Reusable Bottles with Refills: Some eco-friendly companies offer concentrated refills to help reduce plastic waste from single-use bottles.
- Research Company Practices: Beyond the product itself, look into whether companies use renewable energy sources, practice ethical sourcing, or have initiatives aimed at reducing their carbon footprint.
Green formulas are also beneficial for your employees, who handle these products daily. Using green cleaning supplies reduces their exposure to toxic elements that can lead to health issues over time. Additionally, clients deserve cleaner air quality without the pungent odors often associated with conventional cleaning agents.
In Conclusion
In an era where sustainability shapes consumer choices, spas that fuse eco-friendly practices into their very fabric not only cater to the ethos of their clientele but also foster healthier workplaces and contribute to the planet’s welfare.
The decision to go green isn’t just good for business—it’s a collective step towards preserving our world for future generations. It represents a commitment not only to personal well-being but also to the nurturing of our global home. As stewards of relaxation and rejuvenation, let’s lead by example; every sustainable choice made in a spa today can resonate far beyond its walls!
–
