Our vision
We aspire to elevate the standards of our industry by working with partners to strengthen ethical practices and create more sustainable environments. Through our partnerships with L’Oréal Professionnel, Kérastase, and our recycling partner, Full Circle Recycling, we aim to attract clients who share our values and transform our salon into a truly ethical and sustainable business.
By repurposing every item of salon waste, we strive to create meaningful impact, benefiting not only our industry and community but also our stylists, guests, and the environment.
L’Oréal Groupe’s Eco-Commitment
L’Oréal Groupe is committed to creating a more sustainable future through its global sustainability programme, L’Oréal for the Future. The Group places environmental responsibility at the heart of its innovation, working to reduce its impact while contributing positively to society and the planet.
Goals
L’Oréal Groupe aims to achieve carbon neutrality across all its operated sites, including factories, distribution centres and offices, by 2025. This is being accomplished through continuous improvements in energy efficiency and the use of 100% renewable energy.
By 2030, the Group is committed to significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions across its entire value chain. This includes emissions linked not only to production but also to the use of its products by consumers. L’Oréal works closely with its suppliers to ensure ongoing reductions in the carbon footprint of raw materials, fostering collaboration to drive measurable change.
The Group also aims for 95% of its ingredients to be bio-based, derived from abundant minerals, or sourced through circular processes. In addition, all plastic packaging is being redesigned to be refillable, reusable, recyclable or compostable.
What L’Oréal Groupe is Doing for the Planet
L’Oréal continues to improve the sustainability of its packaging by increasing the use of recycled materials, including post-consumer recycled plastics, and reducing overall packaging weight and waste.
The Group is also developing more sustainable formulas and water-efficient products, helping consumers reduce their environmental impact during everyday use.
Across its global operations, L’Oréal has made significant progress in reducing water consumption, waste generation and carbon emissions, with many of its industrial sites already operating on 100% renewable energy.
Driving Renewable Energy
L’Oréal Groupe is investing in renewable energy solutions worldwide, including solar and wind power, supported by long-term partnerships and energy sourcing agreements.
Through these initiatives, the Group continues to transition towards a low-carbon production model, ensuring its operations support a more sustainable future.
Product Testing Policy
At our salon, we only use products from brands committed to beauty without animal testing. L’Oréal Groupe has not tested any of its products or ingredients on animals since 1989, and Kérastase, part of the L’Oréal family, follows the same commitment. Instead, they use advanced alternatives like lab-grown skin models and modern scientific methodsto ensure product safety.
In the EU, UK, and many other countries, animal testing for cosmetic products has been banned since 2013 in the EUand since 1998 in the UK, so all products sold in these regions are cruelty-free. In some other countries, local regulations may still require testing — but any testing is carried out by authorities, not by the brands themselves.
Both L’Oréal and Kérastase are actively working to end animal testing worldwide and have been pioneers in developing safer, innovative alternatives for over 40 years. That means when you sit in our salon chair, you can enjoy luxury haircare knowing it’s made with care for both you and the planet.
Animal Testing: Key Dates
- 1989 – L’Oréal Groupe stops all animal testing on its products and ingredients.
- 1998 – The UK bans animal testing for cosmetics.
- 2013 – The European Union bans animal testing for all cosmetic products and ingredients.
- Today – Kérastase, part of L’Oréal, follows the same commitment. Both brands use advanced alternatives like lab-grown skin models and scientific methods to ensure safety.
Full Circle Salon Recycling
Full Circle Salon Recycling at Vital: Leading the Way in Sustainable Hair Practices in Taunton
At Vital Hair Salon in Taunton, we are thrilled to unveil our comprehensive sustainable hair salon recycling policy, a key initiative aimed at reducing our environmental impact. As a salon committed to eco-friendly practices, we know that many of our clients share our passion for protecting the planet. By working together, we believe we can make a significant difference.
To support this commitment, we’re introducing a small but meaningful green levy of £1.20 to each salon appointment. This contribution will help us continue offering top-quality hairdressing services in a way that is kinder to the environment.
Why We’re Asking for Your Support
We understand that any extra cost might raise concerns, so we want to be fully transparent about why we’re introducing this green levy. The hairdressing industry has historically contributed to environmental waste, with many salon byproducts ending up in landfills. By supporting our sustainable salon initiative, you're not just getting a great haircut—you’re helping to protect the planet.
If you'd prefer not to participate, you are free to opt out of the levy. Simply let our reception team know before paying, and there will be no questions asked.
Our Comprehensive Salon Recycling Programme
At Vital, we’ve implemented a full-circle salon recycling programme designed to tackle the various types of waste generated in the hairdressing process. Our programme includes:
- Hair Recycling: All collected hair is repurposed for environmental uses such as oil absorption in waterways, composting, and even wig-making for long hair donations.
- Recycling Used Foils and Aluminium: These materials are infinitely recyclable, ensuring they never end up in landfills.
- Empty Colour Tubes: We recycle colour tubes to reduce waste and environmental harm.
- Safe Disposal of Chemicals and PPE: All salon chemicals and personal protective equipment are disposed of in a safe, environmentally responsible manner.
- Plastics, Paper, and Bottles: We sort and recycle these items to reduce waste wherever possible.
- Energy Recovery from General Waste: Anything that cannot be recycled is used to generate energy, further minimizing landfill contributions.
Why Salon Waste Recycling Matters
The waste produced by hair salons is often overlooked but can have a major environmental impact. For example, the aluminium foils used in hair colouring can be recycled endlessly but too often end up in landfills. By recycling these foils, we help conserve valuable resources and reduce waste.
Hair, too, plays a vital role in environmental sustainability. When properly recycled, it can be used in oil spill clean-ups, composting, and other conservation efforts. At Vital, we turn what would be waste into valuable resources, making our salon not only a place for great haircuts but also a leader in sustainable salon practices.
By choosing Vital, you’re opting for a sustainable hair salon in Taunton that is making real strides toward eco-friendly practices. Together, we can make a difference for both your style and the environment. Book your appointment today and support our commitment to greener, more sustainable hairdressing services.