National Geographic Contest

I submitted my "Green" idea to the Green Effect Contest for National Geographic. Rate it NOW at http://greeneffect.nationalgeographic.com

Here is what I submitted:
As a hairstylist working in Santa Monica at Doves Studio, I have observed the need to create a local composite site for hair clippings to be collected as a way to “green” my community. Hair clippings are used to create hair mesh mats, and since hair naturally absorbs oil, this the most organic way tool for soaking up oil spills. Current methods, such as chemical dispersants, can actually be more harmful than the spill itself. A local composite site is necessary as the only company that facilitates such work is Matter of Trust, which is located in San Francisco.

Funds would be used to open a facility that would support a natural surplus program. I would partner with Sustainable Works, a non-profit organization promoting sustainable practices in urban environments, to develop and implement a site similar to Matter of Trust in Santa Monica. Over 100 salons exist in Santa Monica and this site will make it convenient for them to become ”greener.” Local salons would have a place to donate hair and we could extend the awareness to local cities such as Malibu, Venice and Marina Del Rey.

Santa Monica is already focused on reducing the city’s carbon footprint, making this a great addition to city standards. This effort could also promote other business sectors to be environmentally responsible in their operations. As the only salon in the Business Greening Program, Doves Studio is a leader committed to greening our community and will use these funds to expand these efforts.