The outcome of any serious research can only be to make two questions grow where only one grew before. --Thorstein Veblen

As an organic gardener, avid recycler, and once long-time vegan (now mostly vegetarian), I’ve always been interested in how to care for the environment and how to make wise decisions when purchasing food and personal care items for my family. I’m a fervent label reader and an overprotective mother, so I suppose it was celestial providence that dropped a massive work project into my proverbial lap last fall: Help customers become effective consumers in the green spa market by researching our products for them. As a technical copywriter for Universal Companies, I would carefully study our products to appropriately label them with their respective earth-friendly attributes.

It wasn’t long before my desk was fashioned into a multitude of malformed stacks, virtually unrecognizable from the immaculate look it once boasted, pushing my self-diagnosed OCD to new limits. I examined ingredients lists, scrutinized each ingredient therein, and researched the textile industry. This was an intimidating assignment --several hundred ingredient lists had to be analyzed along with the textile manufacturing standards of several vendors. I conducted most of my research online and learned about Öko Tex certification, ISO 14001 standards, bamboo, organic vs. regular cotton, and various chemicals found in lotions, oils, and creams. During my exploration, I found a myriad of viewpoints regarding “all natural” ingredients, as there are no regulations in the US. Therefore, it seemed the more I researched, the more questions I developed.

Interestingly, some companies claiming “all natural” on their labels listed cocamidopropyl betaine and polyethylene glycol alongside aloe vera and organic lavender. There are two viewpoints concerning this: Ardent environmentalists argue that cocamidopropyl betaine (a coconut-based petrochemical detergent) and polyethylene glycol (also referred to as PEG, a petroleum based surfactant) should not be considered natural because they are created in labs, not by nature. However, common consumers feel that if the ingredient is derived from a natural source (such as coconuts or crude oil), it should be considered natural. Nevertheless, after studying both perspectives, I surmised that the problem with defining “green” is the wide spectrum of consumer and vendor definitions.  Furthermore, there are other debates over the definition. Some believe it means that a product is vegan, a few believe that it simply means no parabens or petrochemicals, and others opine that the product has to be 100% organic.

Because we are in the spa industry, we devote ourselves to ensuring peaceful havens exist in this overly expeditious world, providing holistic care to those who seek it. Yet, some of the products and services that we offer are in direct opposition to the environmental cause. Clients want consistency between our practice and our menus, plus we must consider that some green attributes are more important to them than others. In essence, how does one straddle this myriad of viewpoints, find products that meet all of the requirements, and avoid greenwashing? These are significant concerns for spas, resorts, and individual practitioners. 

Surprisingly, the basis to being an effective consumer in the green spa market is implausibly simple. After months of heavy research and vendor interrogation, I found one perpetual, invariable truth: The means to successfully navigating through hundreds of products touting “earth-friendly” attributes relies on our willingness to read labels, ask questions, and offer a variety of sustainable choices. This will effectively empower the environmental cause while enabling one to graduate from the inquisitive to the authoritative.

Lisa Rogers Sykes is a technical copywriter and heads the Green Program at Universal Companies in quaint Abingdon, Virginia. Universal Companies, the ultimate source for spas, offers earth-friendly product lines, sustainable spa apparel, and environmentally conscious furniture. It’s truly all here: www.universalcompanies.com .

The leading natural cosmetic firms of Europe have announced the establishment NaTrue, a new organization whose primary objective is to lobby on behalf of the interests of high quality producers of natural cosmetics and secure a clear quality standard for the future. NaTrue will represent the interests of natural cosmetics manufacturers in Brussels and will also serve as an international platform and network for the industry. The group’s mission is to advocate for a clear regulatory definition of natural cosmetics and correspondingly precise criteria for product labeling and use of the terms "bio" or "organic “.

The leading pioneers of natural cosmetic products in Europe (Laverana/Lavera, Logocos/Logona, Primavera, Santaverde, Wala/Dr. Hauschka and Weleda) feel a special responsibility for quality standards because of their long tradition in this  industry. With this primary objective in autumn 2007, they joined together to form  the "European Natural and Organic Cosmetics Interest Group E.E.I.G.", which will now represent the interests of the natural cosmetics industry in Brussels under the  name NaTrue.

NaTrue is a European initiative. It is an industry platform for standards and network  of all the natural cosmetic firms that are working within the same high ethical and ecological principles. This lobbying group is focused on representing the concerns of manufacturers of natural cosmetics in the development of future regulatory directives in Europe and the rest of the world. This includes the development of binding  principles that govern the use of the terms "natural cosmetics" and "bio/organic cosmetics" in the E.U. and are an essential requirement for the development of an  internationally recognized labeling system . Another major mission of this group is to  ensure that the availability of high quality natural raw materials that are essential to the production of natural cosmetics is not inadvertently jeopardized by regulatory  changes sponsored through European institutions and the E.U. member states.

The initiative is open to all interested companies, organizations and institutions who wish to participate in this process.

Contact:

NaTrue offices
European Natural and Organic Cosmetics Interest Grouping E.E.I.G.
Avenue des Arts, 1
1210 Brussels
e-mail: info@natrue.eu
website: www.natrue.eu

Greening was a hot hot topic at this year’s ISPA conference.  Just about everyone was taking notice of the growing interest in environmentally-sensitive and healthy spa services, products and operations.  Two panel sessions devoted to sustainability and a third media panel focused on sustainability were held in conference rooms overflowing with interested spa professionals.  Here are some of the key questions that got people talking, both in the sessions and on the conference floor:

How do I get attention for my spa’s green efforts?

This question was tackled during Tuesday’s Media/PR session “Insider Tips from Leading Journalists: How to Get Their Attention.”  Green media goddess Sara Snow warned spa professionals to use caution when touting their “green-ness.”  According to Sara you must absolutely walk the walk if you are going to talk the talk when it comes to sustainability.  Other panelists made it clear that simply saying “We’re Green!” isn’t good enough, you must be able to provide concrete examples and demonstrate how you are helping lead the way to a greener and healthier spa experience.

How do I know if skincare products really are green?

The eco-sensitivity and healthfulness of skincare products is probably the most controversial and critical topic in spa greening.  Panelists in Monday’s Sustainability session “From Green to Gold: How Sustainability Can Translate into Spa Profits” talked about the need to research and know the full story on skincare products before purchasing a line that touts “organic” or “natural” ingredients.  For more information on green skincare take a look at panelist Mark Wuttke’s article on the topic in this blog.

What steps can I take to be a green spa?

Wednesday’s Sustainability session “Greening Your Spa by Implementing Sustainable Practices” gave ISPA attendees the opportunity to hear the inside scoop on going green from representatives of industry eco-spa leaders Rancho la Puerta, Calistoga Ranch Auberge Resort,  Glen Ivy Hot Springs and Osmosis Day Spa.  Presenters shared their green accomplishments from installing solar to eliminating parabens from their skin care lines.  The main message was that although greening can seem like a daunting task, each small step is a step in the right direction and is important for the well-being of all life on Earth.  Click here for tips on how to green your spa.

Guest Post by Mark Wuttke, Principal, Wuttke Group LLC

If you are confused by what is, and what is not, an organic or natural skin care product, you are not alone.  As the “green”, consumer-driven market continues to gain enormous momentum, many companies are sprinting to be sure they do not miss out on the financial benefits of this ethical consumption movement.

Already we are seeing traditional skin care companies make much-publicized announcements that they are “going green”.  They profess to be truly committed to sustainability in their international farming and ingredient procurement practices as well as their product development initiatives. Should these actions and statements be true as stated and done with honest intention and integrity, fantastic!  If all this activity is only a form of public “green washing” then we, as buyers, must beware.

In some instances, are we seeing companies use the words like “organic”, “natural”, and “chemical free” in their company names and marketing collateral.  There are also some companies displaying organic trade or consumer membership logos and agricultural certifications in an attempt to earn the trust and confidence of the discerning consumer.

So how do we demystify the hype and understand all of the available information so we do not mislead our customers unknowingly?  Failing to get this right can dramatically impact our customer’s confidence and trust in our spa and the spa community as a whole.  If it is important to you and your customers to better understand which skin care products are ethically produced and chemically clean, you may want to consider asking your natural skin care brand the following questions:

• What third party certified organic/natural body do you use to certify your products?

• Does the third party certifying body specialize in agricultural or cosmetic organic/natural standards?

• Is your entire product certified organic/natural or only selected ingredients?

• If only selected ingredients are certified, what % of the entire product is certified organic/natural including emulsifiers, preservatives, and water?

• How long has your product been certified organic/natural?

• How long has your company been committed to sustainable organic/natural practices?  Please describe these practices.

• Do you know where all of your certified organic/natural ingredients are grown?

• Are your certified ingredients grown and prepared using fair trade practices?

• Do you use chemical and or natural preservatives? If so, what are they?

These few questions will help you determine the depth, transparency, and authenticity of any brand you may be considering for your skin and body care spa partner.  The company you select should also be able to assist you and your team in communicating the features and benefits of the brands you choose, so you do not unintentionally mislead any of your valued and loyal customers into buying a product or service that may not meet their needs and or expectations.

Mark Wuttke heads the Wuttke Group, LLC, a world class business development team with a focus on sustainable luxury, spa, boutique retail, organic luxury and the emerging category of eco-chic. Developing business globally, their clients are in the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Hong Kong, UAE in addition to the USA and Australia. www.wuttkegroup.com

Guest Post by Mark Wuttke, Principal, Wuttke Group
The organic and natural segment of the personal care market continues to be one of the fastest growing in the cosmetics and toiletries industry, increasing at over 20 percent per year in the US alone. This natural trend represents a major lifestyle shift that spas are experiencing first hand.

What can spa operators do to capture the growing natural and organic beauty segment? How can spas educate their team and the consumer in their spa about the organic and natural beauty products they offer?

In many instances the perception is that products not containing chemicals are healthier for you, and therefore consumers are consciously choosing more products that have plant based ingredients and essential oils listed on the label. Even thought natural products can be very enticing to spa goers, only a small amount of ingredients actually fit the bill, leaving spa goers and aestheticians alike confused over what is and what isn't organic and or natural.

Currently many countries have no official regulation or standards for organic and or natural skin and body care products leaving consumers vulnerable to misinformation. As a result the industry as a whole is being left wide open to dubious claims concerning the authenticity of the products we sell. Several brands are already using the words organic and natural in their company name and or marketing collateral to imply to consumers that they are organic and natural, when they are not.

Based on increasingly educated consumer scrutiny, shortly it will no longer be acceptable to use the words organic or natural on the label without validating such claims through sound and recognized independent certification.

Since certification is what consumers trust in, some brands are using organic agriculture certifications for their products which in many cases may not be totally appropriate when we are talking specifically about skin and body care. Again, these agricultural based bodies might certify only a small amount of ingredients but not the complete final product including water and or emulsifiers.

Currently there are two European bodies that have certification options that specialize more in skin and body care product standards, French based EcoCert for organic and German based BDIH for natural.  And for those brands who feel their own organic and natural standards exceed the certification standards of the above mentioned bodies, there is EcoControl.  As EcoCert and BDIH become more common and effectively the basic entry point for certified organic and natural skin and body care products, EcoControl is a certification option for brands who want to raise the organic and natural quality bar even higher by setting their own superior standards above EcoCert and BDIH to significantly differentiate themselves in this highly competitive and crowded marketplace.

Mark Wuttke heads the Wuttke Group, LLC, a world class business development team with a focus on sustainable luxury, spa, boutique retail, organic luxury and the emerging category of eco-chic. Developing business globally, his clients are in the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Canada, Hong Kong, UAE in addition to the USA and Australia. www.wuttkegroup.com

Guest Post By Celia Tully of Natural Body Spa

By now most people are somewhat familiar with green business operations and the reasons for operating a business with the environment in mind.    As with many industries in the United States and abroad, the spa industry is beginning to realize the impact it has on the environment due to the high use of energy, water and waste. 

In addition, the fact that spas are places that consumers seek out for stress reduction, detoxification, and skin care, places them in an excellent position to educate clients about the environment’s impact on one’s health and wellness.  It is fitting then that spa operators are concerned with educating consumers about taking care of the environment just as they would their physical bodies.

In the United States, the spa industry is comprised of nearly 14,000 facilities generating 9.7 billion in annual revenues.  Spas are a leading leisure industry and naturally suited to be at the forefront of the green movement. 

This industry typically utilizes environmental resources for a wide array of water-based treatments, laundry services and disposable items used in spa services making it a major consumer of water, energy, and natural resources.  Adopting green practices not only reduces environmental impact, but also raises environmental awareness among spa clientele and contributes to the financial performance.

There are several areas in which spas can have a positive impact on the environment:

•  Energy usage
• Reduced water usage
• Recycling of paper, plastic, aluminum and glass
• Use of Energy Star rated appliances
• Using post consumer recycled paper and soy ink in printed collateral material
• Building the physical space using reclaimed building materials and low VOC (Volatile Organic Compounds) products in finishes such as paint, flooring and adhesives
• Implementation of green cleaning guidelines including healthy procedures and green cleaning products
• Using toilet paper, paper towels and trash receptacle liners made with recycled content
• Use of HEPA vacuum systems that reduce building contaminants and minimize environmental impact
• Recycling of “grey” water to be used in toilets.  Grey water is water that has been used in sinks.  It is diverted to a storage tank which is plumed into toilet lines reducing the need for using fresh water in toilets.

Green Spa Network & Organic Spa Magazine Partner to Promote Green Spa Experiences

Green Spa Network is excited to announce an alliance with Organic Spa Magazine.  As advocates for eco-friendly spa experiences, we are collaborating to help spas and spa goers discover how they can incorporate sustainability into their businesses and everyday lives.

About Organic Spa Magazine

Sophisticated and beautifully designed, Organic Spa Magazine brings inspiration, insight and expert advice on how to live a more sustainable and meaningful life. 

Divided into four segments, At Home, At Work, At Play and At Rest, Organic Spa Magazine is about bringing spa wisdom home and offers a plethora of information on how to help you find that elusive balance we all seek.

Organic Spa Magazine is available to readers in both digital and print formats. To order by phone, please call toll free at 1-877-331-3371 or visit online at www.organicspamagazine.com.  Check out a digital issue of the magazine.

Where do you begin once your spa has decided to go green?  Take a look at the tips below to find ways that you can help reduce the environmental footprint of your spa.

Install low-flow faucet aerators to reduce water use by location up to 50%. Reduces water-heating needs as well. Low-flow showerheads are common; confirm that they are installed.

Water landscaping in the morning to reduce loss due to evaporation. If using a 
municipal water supply install filters to prevent chlorine from entering the outdoor/natural environment.

Purchase unbleached (with chlorine) paper products. Paper towels, toilet paper, coffee filters, and many other products have excellent quality and cost-effective alternatives.

Recycle and let guests know this is the practice by providing tasteful recycling cans for their use.

Recycle and use refillable toner & ink cartridges.

Precycle – reduce waste before you buy. When purchasing, consider the packaging that comes with the product as one of the factors in determining choice.

Ask guests if they would like a bag, rather than just assuming.

Provide your guests with packaging (bags, tissue, etc.) made from significant amounts of post-consumer recycled materials.

Purchase office paper with recycled content, make 2-sided copies when feasible, & use waste to make your own scratch pads--reusing before recycling.

Encourage carpooling, public transportation, or ride/walking to work.

Use rechargeable batteries.

Prevent pests naturally by using alternative pesticides.

Store and dispose of hazardous materials properly. Many commonly used products are hazardous to the environment. Identify those of concern in your facility and investigate less-toxic alternatives for future purchases.

Buy organic when possible.

Do an energy audit of your facility – heating, lighting, and insulation.

 

Green Spa Network will be at this year's ISPA conference www.experienceispa.com.

This is an exciting year for green spas as there are two full sessions devoted to spa greening, one hosted by Green Spa Network Board member Janice Gronvold:

Wednesday, Nov. 14
2:15 - 3:45 p.m.

Greening Your Spa by Implementing Sustainable Business Practices
Roberto Arjona, John Gray, Karen Ray, Elizabeth Snowden, Michael Stusser; Moderator: Janice Gronvold

*Increase awareness of the resources and services, which support sustainable business practices that are available for your spa.
*Determine how to introduce sustainability principles within your organization.
*Learn how to introduce manageable projects and create attainable successes for employees and departments before addressing more ambitious initiatives.
*Create master plan for identifying long-term objectives and benefits of sustainable practices.
*Learn how to engage employees in benefits of long term planning and implementation.
*Receive suggestions for creating a culture of sustainability.


Also be sure to check out the following panel, with moderator Ted Ning of LOHAS:

Monday, Nov. 12
1-2:30 p.m.
From Green to Gold: How Sustainability Can Translate into Spa Profits

Mary Bemis – Organic Spa Magazine, Linda Povey, Mark Wuttke; Moderator: Ted Ning -LOHAS

*Learn who the consumers are who are interested in sustainability aspects of spa.
*Discover what the LOHAS market opportunity is for spa.
*Understand how sustainability improves bottom line business practice.
*Hear examples of innovative ways other companies have utilized sustainability to improve their market position.
*Learn LOHAS trends that spas can capitalize on.