A new trade body has been launched to address the issue of sustainability in spas.
The not-for-profit, member-based Sustainable Spa Association (SSA) is being created by Lucy Brialey, distributor of nutrition brand Hech and former group head of spa for Aspria. Robert Cooper, managing director of eco towel manufacturer Scrummi Spa is co-founder.
The Association, which is set to launch officially in the first half of this year, has been created to educate spa and salon operators on the environmental impact of the industry. It will champion profitable, sustainable, long-term operational strategies.
Members will be able to gain SSA Accreditation – graded from standard to platinum – by using an online sustainability self-assessment tool. Once self-assessment has been completed, members will be informed of areas for improvements and suggested methods for implementing change. They will also have the option to achieve an industry standard grading, which will be audited by the SSA.
Lucy Brialey says: “The SSA-recognised certification will increase a spa or salon’s profile to consumers as a responsible and environmentally aware business. Consumers will be able to research and access sustainability information on spas in the UK that have achieved accreditation, enabling them to make informed choices for their own health and the health of the environment.
“Consumers will be able to research and access sustainability information on spas in the UK that have achieved accreditation, enabling them to make informed choices on how they prefer to spa for their own health and the health of the environment.”
The association will also put on educational events, and create an ethical product buying guide featuring brands and suppliers that have met SSA criteria.
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