Clean locks of hair, fur, feathers, and washed nylons can be used to help clean up the Gulf oil spill. From these materials, an organization called Matter of Trust makes hair mats and booms that have proven extremely effective in absorbing oil and cleaning spill sites.

The mats were invented by hair stylist Phil McCrory in the wake of the 1989 Exxon-Valdez oil spill in Alaska. Since 2000, Matter of Trust has partnered with McCrory and thousands of salons to help decontaminate waterways, prevent soil erosion, and create green jobs.

The biggest oil clean-up in history is just beginning along our Gulf Coast, and you can help. Spread the word. Read this information and pass it along to your barber shop, hair salon, pet groomer, teachers, and anyone else you know who can help gather the materials.