This week, we spoke to Jen from Clover Salon. This is our interview with her
Our company is Clover - earthkind salon. We focus on sustainable practices, high waste diversion (99.8% this year) and commit to clean and cruelty-free beauty products and services.
When was this company founded?
2008
Who started it?
Myself and my then business partner.
What advice would you give to youth who are looking to go into a similar field?
Salons are a tricky project and sustainable ones even more so. You are nothing without your clients and staff, and nothing to them if you don't remain sincere and loyal to your concept and practices. If anyone were to consider opening a sustainable or environmentally sound salon, I would simply tell them to have a strong outline for their concept and to stay true to it. And research. A lot of research has to be done to educate yourself about companies, ingredients and services available to be sure you can always answer to inquiring minds. It took me years to learn about chemical content and solid environmental practices and I have still barely scratched the surface. Dive right into it and go as far as you can. The world is full of earth-friendly options of you just work hard to look for them.
Do you think it is important for youth to get involved in sustainable practices? Why?
It is extremely important for youth to get involved in sustainability. Youth haven't yet adopted bad habits that are hard to break or the lack of desire to change. They could create a lifetime of environmentally responsible choices and behaviours by getting involved at a younger age. These behaviours could create more responsible companies, families, individuals etc. that would end in a cleaner, less carbon footprint laden planet for all.
Potential for internships/paid work experience at your company?
This is something I have always wanted to do, but haven't had the opportunity. I wouldn't want to start someone out casually and haven't yet been able to formulate what kind of work needs to be done alongside what would benefit them. As soon as I can get those things in place I may start looking.
In a general sense, what does sustainability mean to you?
Sustainability means, as cliche as it sounds, to leave things well enough alone. It means to work from what is abundant on the earth and to not to make it necessary to make product anew and from new and/or toxic components. Repurpose, reuse and recycle!
This is something I have always wanted to do, but haven't had the opportunity. I wouldn't want to start someone out casually and haven't yet been able to formulate what kind of work needs to be done alongside what would benefit them. As soon as I can get those things in place I may start looking.
In a general sense, what does sustainability mean to you?
Sustainability means, as cliche as it sounds, to leave things well enough alone. It means to work from what is abundant on the earth and to not to make it necessary to make product anew and from new and/or toxic components. Repurpose, reuse and recycle!
Any closing comments?Beware of greenwashing. I can't tell you how many company names or products include the word "organic" or "enviro-" that are anything but. Educate yourself to avoid the toxins and waste of money.
Special thanks to Jen for this interview!
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