In a remarkable display of creativity and environmental consciousness, Maria Madisson Salon in Malibu has found innovative ways to repurpose old hair and hair extensions. Instead of discarding these materials, the salon donates them to the nonprofit organization Matter of Trust, which upcycles hair, fur, and fleece into useful products.
Alysha Daroy, the proprietor of Maria Madisson, shared her enthusiasm for the initiative. “Customers often notice my jar of used extensions and, once they learn about its purpose, they bring in their old extensions when they come for new ones. One client even brought a small suitcase full of hair!” she said. “I’m happy to donate the hair for a good cause—it’s much better than throwing it away.”
The donated hair is sent to Matter of Trust’s headquarters in San Francisco, where it is transformed into mats that help soak up petrochemical oil spills. These mats have been used in various environmental clean-up efforts, including the 2021 Huntington Beach oil spill and the 2010 BP Deepwater Horizon spill in the Gulf of Mexico.
Matter of Trust President Lisa Gautier explained the process: “The hair mats for oil spills are felts, similar to the material we used in elementary school projects.” These mats are not only effective in absorbing oil but also represent a sustainable solution to waste management.
The initiative also extends to collecting hair from pet groomers, veterinarians, and even laundry lint, all of which can be repurposed into these eco-friendly mats. This innovative approach highlights the potential for everyday waste to be transformed into valuable resources, benefiting both the environment and the community.
Maria Madisson Salon’s partnership with Matter of Trust is a shining example of how businesses can contribute to environmental sustainability while engaging their customers in meaningful ways. By turning what was once considered waste into a valuable resource, they are setting a new standard for eco-friendly practices in the beauty industry.
Visit their Website: https://matteroftrust.org/donate-hair-fur-and-fiber/
