A new UK-based trade-body has been launched to help spas achieve sustainability goals, called The Sustainable Spa Association (SSA).

The membership-based organisation offers independent guidance and ongoing support to spa operators on how to improve their sustainability credentials for £1,000 (€1,105, US$1,319) a year.

SSA is founded by Lucy Brialey, former group head of spa for Aspria, and Robert Cooper, MD of eco-towelling company, Scrummi Spa.

The SSA uses a bespoke benchmarking system to allow spas to measure their environmental impact against the industry standard and achieve a recognised accreditation for their efforts and improvements.

This 12-part appraisal allows the SSA to highlight areas for improvement and guide its members to reach a level of accreditation that is recognised by global spa professionals and consumers alike.

Member spas gain access to a unique online Sustainable Impact Assessment that provides instant dashboard results.

“As a non-profit organisation, we’re dedicated to making ongoing positive environmental change within the spa industry; through education, support and accreditation,” explained Brialey.

“With guidance from The SSA and its partners, spa operators can be confident that they’re taking the right path towards achieving sustainable development goals.”

The SSA is launching with influential industry figures in sustainability as founding partners and on its board of directors, including Studio Apostoli’s Alberto Apostoli and Tracey Brasenell – country manager of [comfort zone], as well as British textile supplier Scrummi Spa.

“I strongly believe the concepts of wellness and sustainability are intrinsic to each other,” commented Alberto Apostoli, founder of Studio Apostoli, “sustainability is not a trend but a necessity.”

The organisation offers its members access to carefully researched resources, up-to-date information, education and exclusive insights from leading spa brand partners and sustainability experts – all designed specifically for the growth and development of spa businesses.

“We want to make it easy for spa operators to take those important steps towards sustainable practices,” said Cooper, “each SSA member and partner will be contributing to a collective improvement in spa practices.”

As well as membership offers, the organisation is also looking to partner with brands which align with its values and who have a strong commitment towards social, ethical or environmental causes.

The organisation claims its members look to the SSA to provide advice, expertise and research on sustainable product choices in all purchase categories.

Brand partners will be connected with spa operators and advisors who’re looking for its product and expertise as well as being given a profile listing within the member’s area of the website.