For some people, the thought of a “green” haircut conjures up visions of Halloween or punk music. However, the type of “green” hairstyling that takes place at a local business has led to Acorn Organic Salon being named the “Innovation Rocks!” Award winner by the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development’s Business Resource Center for the month of July.

Operated by Dover natives Laura MacKay and Allison Degan, Acorn Organic Salon emphasizes environmental responsibility in every aspect of their operation from renovations and products to waste management and consumer education. In addition to vetting all hair care and body products for toxicity, safety and organic ingredients, Acorn reuses shopping bags when processing hair color and promotes onsite book and magazine recycling and swapping.

“Innovation isn’t just about creating a new product, it’s about finding a way to do business differently for the betterment of your customers and your community,” said New Hampshire Division of Economic Development Interim Director Roy Duddy. “Not only is Acorn Organic Salon providing great hairstyling to their customers, they’ve incorporated environmental friendliness and community service into their business model. This sends a tremendous message to other businesses who are wondering how they can do their part for the environment.”

Acorn Organic Salon has partnered with Matter of Trust, a company that uses hair clippings to soak up the more than 2,600 oil spills that happened across the globe in just the past year alone. All of Acorn’s hair clippings are shipped to Matter of Trust on a monthly basis.  

For more information about Acorn Organic Salon, visit www.acornorganicsalon.com. 

“Innovation Rocks!” is an initiative sponsored by the New Hampshire Division of Economic Development’s Business Resource Center in coordination with Rock 101 (WGIR-FM) and the The Pavilion at the Hilton Garden Inn Manchester Downtown to celebrate the creativity and ingenuity of New Hampshire innovators.