Salon owners looking to go green can suffer from information overload and become paralyzed, says Tamara Jercha, president of the National Association of Eco-Friendly Salons & Spas (NAEFSS). “They do nothing because they don’t know where to start,” she says. Her solution: Begin with the Salon & Spa Sustainability Model, created by the NAEFSS.

Jercha, a LEED-accredited professional and licensed cosmetologist, sought advice from a green business consultant and used her own experience in the salon industry as well as her knowledge in building commercial interiors to create a sustainability model customized for the salon and spa industry. Those pursuing certification are awarded points directly related to the 11 categories that make up the Salon & Spa Sustainability Model.

To learn more about membership or certification, visit www.naefss.org or contact tamara@naefss.org. You can also sign up to receive free monthly eco-tips on the site.

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