"Because the US will have run out of oil and gas reserves—which provide 92% of our energy—by the time your grandson is in college. Because every year, three million more acres of US land become unfarmable. Because the world doesn't end outside our doorstep. Things to remember the next time you ask why it matters how you live day-to-day." These are the words behind Aveda, a wonderful skin and hair care product line that lives by its sustainable roots.

Even your shampoo can be sustainable and eco-friendly. Aveda is a company who takes pride in the fact that they have "…drawn a line in the soil because sustainability, like beauty, is a process—not just a result." I personally, love the products. The shampoos, conditioners, lotions, make-up, essential oils—everything. I am sold. I was sold before I even knew about their beliefs in using between 97-99% of only the best and naturally derived plant and flower essences, before I knew that they take interest in the farming practices of their raw materials, and before I understood the extent to which they go to support the indigenous communities that they work with and before I knew that all the packaging and paper products are made of mostly post-consumer products that are free of chlorine. They are in the business of practicing ethical principles as well as ecological and biological diversity.

Now you are asking, 'where can I purchase these wonderful products?' I happen to know just the place. I am already relaxed thinking about this heavenly place. It is Total E'clips Salon and Spa on Lakeshore in the Mission. If you haven't dropped by, it is worth it for the aroma therapeutic smells alone.

I spoke with Linda and Kathie about their Salon and Spa and how they are striving to make an environmental difference in their business practices. Not only are they exclusively using Aveda products, they are making a conscious effort to make their team at Total E'clips aware of ways to respect the environment.

Some of their efforts include a rigorous recycling program that greatly reduces their amount of waste and have also completed a waste audit to better improve their disposal management. In addition, they have made it an important part of their business culture to make their team aware of ways to reduce energy usage, water usage and use recycled materials where possible. They are continually experimenting with more environmentally-friendly products such as hydrogen peroxide instead of the conventional toxic products used in their industry. Even the hair dye (which is not even toxic) is safely disposed of in a toxic-waste manner. The air is cleaner in there—no aerosol hair sprays and no chemically derived scents…only the pure goodness of naturally derived essential oils. What a great feeling—finally, a spa that you can actually relax in and healthfully breathe deeply.

Although they are environmentally aware, their quality and service remains of the utmost importance. The sheer buzz and energy at the salon and spa indicates their well-deserved popularity.

Pop in, give them a call at 764-8117 or check out their website. Try their Aveda products, I guarantee you will love them!

You too can have your household questions answered—or, if you have some great healthy household hints that you'd like to share, e-mail me, I'd love to hear from you.