Recycling Human Hair to Clean Oil Spills

Did you know that human hair can be used to clean up oil spills? It’s true! A non-profit organization called Matter of Trust collects donated hair and turns it into mats that absorb oil from spills. This innovative solution provides a sustainable and eco-friendly way to combat environmental pollution.

How Does It Work?

The process is surprisingly simple. Once donated hair is received, it is cleaned and processed to remove any debris or contaminants. Then, the hair is woven into mats, which are incredibly absorbent and effective at trapping oil. These mats can be deployed at the site of an oil spill, where they soak up the oil, allowing for easy cleanup and disposal.

Why Use Hair?

Human hair is a surprisingly effective material for oil absorption. Its unique structure and properties make it ideal for this purpose. Here’s why:

• High Porosity: Hair has a high porosity, meaning it has many tiny pores that can trap oil molecules.
• Hydrophobic Nature: Hair is naturally hydrophobic, meaning it repels water but attracts oil.
• Strength and Durability: Hair is strong and durable, making it ideal for repeated use and handling.

Benefits of Hair-Based Oil Spill Cleanup

Using hair to clean up oil spills offers several advantages over traditional methods:

• Eco-Friendly: Hair is a natural and biodegradable material, making it an environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic materials.
• Cost-Effective: Hair is readily available and inexpensive, making it a cost-effective solution for oil spill cleanup.
• Effective: Hair mats have proven to be highly effective at absorbing oil, removing a significant amount from spills.
• Sustainable: By reusing and recycling hair, we can reduce waste and promote sustainability.

How You Can Help

Everyone can contribute to this innovative solution. Here’s how you can get involved:

• Donate Your Hair: If you’re getting a haircut, consider donating your hair to Matter of Trust. They accept hair of any length and color.
• Spread the Word: Share this information with friends, family, and your community. The more people who know about this initiative, the more hair can be collected and used to clean up spills.
• Support the Organization: Make a donation to Matter of Trust to support their efforts and help them expand their reach.

By recycling human hair, we can create a cleaner, healthier environment for all. Join the movement and make a difference!