In the world of beauty and hair care, where transformations are commonplace, there’s one transformation our salon is committing to that’s not just skin-deep. Continuing on our journey towards sustainability, we’re making a pledge to reduce our use of plastics by at least 60% within the span of a year. This commitment isn’t just about making headlines or jumping on the eco-friendly bandwagon — it’s a fundamental reimagining of our responsibility towards the planet and its inhabitants.
Aligned with Earth Day 2024, celebrated annually on April 22nd, we at Figaro London are embracing the challenge set forth by EARTHDAY.ORG to end plastic pollution for the sake of human and planetary health. With their unwavering commitment to demand a 60% reduction in the production of all plastics by 2040, we’re joining hands in solidarity, determined to make a tangible difference within our sphere of influence: we’re committing ourselves to reduce our use of plastics by at least 60% not by 2040, but by the end of 2024.
Plastic pollution is not merely an eyesore — it’s a global crisis threatening the delicate balance of life on Earth. The staggering statistics published by EARTHDAY.ORG surrounding plastic waste are sobering reminders of the urgency of this mission:
- 8.3 BILLION Metric Tons (9.1 BILLION US Tons) of plastic have been produced since its introduction in the 1950s.
- 79% of all plastic ever produced still sits in landfills or the natural environment.
- Americans alone purchase about 50 billion water bottles per year, contributing significantly to the proliferation of single-use plastics.
- The world produces more than 26 million US tons of polystyrene (plastic foam) annually.
- Packaging production accounts for the highest-demanded use for plastic, with 146 million metric tons used in 2017.
- At least 14 million tons of plastic end up in our oceans every year, wreaking havoc on marine life and ecosystems.
- Terrestrial microplastic pollution is estimated to be four to 23 times higher than marine microplastic pollution, posing potential health risks to humans and animals.
Armed with this awareness, Figaro London is implementing a layered approach to tackle plastic pollution head-on.
1. Firstly, we’re committing to purchasing products in bulk and offering refill options for our customers, minimising single-use plastic packaging. This not only reduces waste but also empowers our clients to be active participants in our and their own sustainability journey.
2. We’re actively seeking out brands that share our vision of reducing plastic usage and supporting initiatives aimed at promoting eco-friendly alternatives. By partnering with these like-minded companies, we’re amplifying our impact and driving positive change throughout the beauty industry. To hold ourselves accountable, we’ll publish here all the changes we’re implementing and the brands we’ll keep and the brands whose products range we’ll change.
3. But our commitment can’t end there. Education is key to effecting lasting change, which is why we’re dedicating ourselves to learning and sharing sustainable practices with our colleagues and clients. From proper waste management to taking part in community initiatives and advocating for policy changes, we’re committed to being stewards of the environment in our own, humble way.
As we embark on this journey towards a plastic-free future, we invite you to join in this #PlasticDetox mission to #endplasticpollution. Together, we can make a difference — one refill, one conscious choice, and one transformed mindset at a time.
Let’s detoxify our planet and leave a legacy of sustainability for generations to come.
The time to act is now.
Love,
Figaro London
#PlasticDetox #EndPlasticPollution
