Aberdeenshire business receives 21st award for environmental commitment

An Aberdeenshire hair and beauty salon – considered one of the most eco-friendly businesses in the UK – has been awarded once again for its commitment to the environment.

Inverurie’s Elan Hair Design has won its 21st accolade after picking up the social responsibility gong at the Employee Engagement Awards in London.

The business has cut its carbon emissions by 94%, while 95% of its general waste has been diverted from landfill.

It was revamped four years ago with the aim of reducing its carbon footprint. The owners have installed photovoltaic and solar-thermal panels for electricity and energy for hot water. Staff send hair clippings and other biodegradable waste for use as compost on farms.

The awards were held on Thursday, January 28.

Elan Hair Design was previously handed the chamber award for sustainability from the British Chambers of Commerce in 2012. It has also been named the best Scottish business at the Community Environmental Leader Awards and was given the Scottish Chamber Award for sustainability in 2015.