Every year, the industry generates thousands of tonnes of waste, much of it derived from hair and plastic. However, it is rarely used effectively. Clic Recycle, an innovative initiative led by Valerie, is demonstrating how waste can be transformed into valuable solutions. In a conversation with her, we find out how her project is redefining recycling in the beauty industry.
A natural approach to circular recycling
The inspiration for Clic Recycle came from a deeply personal experience. Valerie remembered a tradition from her grandfather using hair around the vineyards to protect them against animals. It is placed on the soil around plants, but it has to be removed afterwards due to the long time it takes to biodegrade.
"This sparked me the idea of using hairs advantages and developing circular products of hair mixed with natural fibres to improve biodegradability and serve as a mulch", Valerie shares
Strategic partnerships for the circular economy
Thanks to strategic alliances with major brands such as L'Oréal and collaborations with entities such as the Port of Barcelona, Clic Recycle is closing the materials cycle. Through this circular approach they transform recycled hair into useful products for sectors as diverse as agriculture, construction and environmental barriers.
"What we have achieved is thanks to the integration of advanced technology, such as blockchain and IOT sensors, which allow us to improve traceability and efficiency in our operations, ensuring a positive environmental and social impact," explains Valerie.
Innovative hair recycling solutions
In the CLIC SEA and CLIC TERRA projects, Clic Recycle is combining natural solutions with advanced technology. In the agricultural field, recycled hair becomes a natural fertilizer, improving soil structure, avoiding the use of herbicides and favouring the regeneration of the ecosystem.
"These applications not only benefit agriculture, but are also contributing to the protection of the oceans," says Valerie.
Measuring environmental and social impact
Clic Recycle is not only dedicated to transforming waste, but also provides its customers with detailed reports on the impact generated through their participation in the project. This report covers everything from waste reduction and carbon footprint, to social and ecosystem benefits, showing the power of every small action.
The circular economy in the beauty industry
Valerie highlights the paradigm shift that is happening in the beauty industry: "Through our partnerships, we have transformed waste such as hair into valuable resources. In addition, we have developed a system that not only benefits the environment, but also drives sustainability within the sector".
With the support of innovative technologies and a circular economy approach, Clic Recycle is laying the foundation for a more responsible future in the beauty industry.
Technology and circularity: keys to change
According to the interviewee, the key to success lies in the integration of advanced technologies that enable traceability and process efficiency. She mentions: "From the platform to the application of blockchain, every innovation we implement reinforces our mission to create a truly circular system".
Current trends in the green and blue economy
"Current trends in the green and blue economy are driven by technological innovation, resource circularity and multi-sector collaboration," says Valerie.
In the green economy, areas such as the bioeconomy, regenerative agriculture and renewable energy are driving the transformation. While in the blue economy, marine ecosystem restoration, sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, and recycling in coastal ports are gaining prominence.
Collaboration and awareness strategy
Clic Recycle understands that international collaborations and awareness-raising workshops are key to broadening the impact of its solutions and strengthening the circular economy locally and globally.
In terms of international partnerships, they participate in European consortia such as CLIC SEA, and collaborate with brands, universities and technology associations to share knowledge and drive sustainable innovation.
Awareness-raising workshops aim to raise awareness of environmental education through hands-on activities, empowering the community and providing customized reports reflecting the impact of each contribution.
"These actions allow us to move towards a global circular economy, where collaboration and awareness are essential for a more sustainable future," says Valerie.
Future projects at Clic Recycle
"We are excited about new applications of hair recycling into innovative products, including building products, interior design solutions and collaborations with artists and designers," concludes Valerie. These innovations not only aim to be functional, but are also designed to be environmentally responsible, reflecting the change we want to see in the industry.
Advice for sustainable entrepreneurs
Valerie has a key piece of advice for those who want to start a project: "The first step is to create products with a circular approach. In addition, it is essential to collaborate with strategic partners, leverage technologies and always create value for the community. The most important thing is not to give up in the face of challenges, to remain passionate about what you do and to move forward with resilience."
Sustainable change is not only a business opportunity, it is a commitment to the future. Leading this movement means balancing innovation, purpose and collaboration, always seeking a positive impact.
