At Recess in Los Angeles, owner Nidhi Lal pays more than just lip service to the salon’s eco-conscious reputation. She’s made an offer to clients who might otherwise dispose of their half-empty polish bottles improperly: Bring them into the salon and for every 10 bottles, they will receive a free manicure. For every 15 bottles, they earn a free pedicure.

 “I thought it was a great way to raise awareness about nail polish disposal,” says Lal. “Improper disposal of hazardous materials poses a risk to the health and safety of communities as well as the environment. I’m trying to educate my clients while rewarding them for their efforts, and hoping to make a long-term difference by doing so.”

 Lal has been pleased with the response so far. Not only are her clients turning in their old bottles, but various media outlets have been covering the idea as well.

She notes that properly disposing of old polish bottles is less than convenient in Los Angeles. She either takes them some distance to the closest permanent Household Hazardous Waste center or waits for a local collection event.

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