Sustainable & Ethical Fashion:
How Streetwear
Brands Are
Improving
Standards

In recent years, the world has witnessed a remarkable transformation in the way people perceive and approach fashion. As society becomes increasingly aware of the environmental and social impact of the clothing industry, consumers are demanding more than just stylish designs and affordable prices, and they are seeking ethically produced clothing that aligns with their values and supports a sustainable future. 

Some brands have been built with environmental and social considerations at their core, while others have emerged as innovators in transitioning into organisations that operate more responsibly. From eco-friendly materials to fair labour practices, ethical fashion now plays an important role in creating a more just and sustainable world.

What To Consider When Looking For Ethically Made Clothing

Sustainability is paramount in the fashion industry for several reasons, and the fashion industry is infamous for its fast-paced, throwaway culture, which exacerbates the problem of waste. The rise of fast fashion has led to an increase in textile waste, as garments are produced, consumed, and discarded at an alarming rate. 

Sustainable practices, like promoting circularity and creating garments designed for longevity, can curb the overconsumption and waste associated with disposable fashion trends.

Another crucial aspect of sustainability in fashion relates to the fair treatment of workers throughout the supply chain. The industry has a long history of labour exploitation, including low wages, poor working conditions, and even child labour. 

Prioritising ethical production and fostering transparency can ensure that workers receive fair wages, safe working conditions, and are treated with respect and dignity.

On top of this, the fashion industry's large carbon footprint cannot be ignored. As a whole, the industry is believed to be responsible for around 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, which in turn contributes to climate change and its disastrous consequences. 

By adopting renewable energy sources, energy and resource efficient production methods, and low-carbon transportation options, the industry can significantly reduce its carbon emissions and play a crucial role in combating climate change.

What To Consider When Looking For Ethically Made Clothing

When assessing clothing options in terms of sustainability and ethical production, there are several key factors to consider. These aspects encompass materials, treatment of staff and employees, as well as brand activism and transparency. By evaluating these factors, we’re able to make informed decisions that contribute to a more sustainable and ethical fashion landscape.

Materials

The choice of materials greatly impacts the environmental footprint of a garment, so it is important to opt for clothing made from eco-friendly and sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, Tencel, hemp, or recycled fabrics. 

These materials require fewer resources and produce less waste and pollution compared to conventional textiles.

Ethical Labour Practices

Ethical production goes hand-in-hand with fair labour practices, therefore investigating how a brand treats its workers across the entire supply chain, from raw material extraction to garment assembly is key. Look for fair wages, safe working conditions, and the absence of child labour or forced labour. 

Brands that prioritise ethical production often have certifications or memberships with organisations like Fair Trade, Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP), or the Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI).

Responsible Activity

You should also evaluate the brand's commitment to sustainability and ethical production through its activism, policies, and transparency. Brands should communicate their values, initiatives, and progress in a clear and accessible manner. While main brands claim that the environment is important to them, some actively advocate for environmental and social issues, collaborate with non-profit organisations, and engage in projects that foster positive change in the fashion industry.

Circular Fashion

Consider whether a brand promotes circularity by implementing practices like designing for longevity, offering repair services, or supporting resale and recycling initiatives.

These practices help extend the life cycle of garments, reduce waste, and decrease the demand for new resources.

How Leading Brands Are Moving Towards A Sustainable Future

Conscious choices not only promote environmental stewardship and social justice but also send a powerful message to the industry, encouraging widespread adoption of sustainable and ethical practices. Let’s take a look at a few leading brands, and what they’re doing to improve standards in the industry.

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Patagonia

Patagonia, a renowned outdoor clothing and gear brand, has long been a pioneer in the pursuit of ethical and sustainable practices within the fashion industry. Founded in 1973 by Yvon Chouinard, Patagonia's history has always been tightly intertwined with a strong commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility.

From its inception, the brand has focused on minimising the ecological footprint of its products, seeking innovative materials and manufacturing processes that align with its core values. Patagonia has been using organic cotton since 1996 and incorporates recycled materials into many of its products. 

The brand is also a founding member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, a group of industry leaders dedicated to developing standardised tools to measure the environmental and social impact of apparel and footwear products.

Initiatives & Activism

One notable initiative undertaken by Patagonia is the 'Worn Wear' program. Launched in 2017, Worn Wear encourages customers to repair, reuse, and recycle their clothing, extending the life of garments and reducing waste. The program provides repair services, sells refurbished products at a lower cost, and educates consumers on proper care and maintenance of their gear. Worn Wear exemplifies Patagonia's commitment to fostering a circular economy and promoting responsible consumption.

In addition to its sustainable products and initiatives, Patagonia has established itself as a powerful advocate for environmental and social causes. The Patagonia Action Works campaign connects customers with grassroots organisations working to protect the environment. By providing funding, resources, and visibility to these organisations, Patagonia Action Works amplifies their impact and strengthens the global environmental movement.

Transparent & Ethical Supply Chains

Patagonia's dedication to ethical practices extends to its supply chain and labour standards as well. The company is a member of the Fair Labor Association and has implemented a comprehensive code of conduct for its suppliers. Moreover, Patagonia regularly assesses its factories and suppliers to ensure they meet its stringent social and environmental standards.

The brand's commitment to transparency further enhances its credibility as an ethical and sustainable leader in the industry. Patagonia shares detailed information about its supply chain, materials, and initiatives, allowing customers to make informed choices and understand the impact of their purchases.

Sustainable Product Ranges

Patagonia prioritises the use of sustainable and eco-friendly materials in its products. This includes organic cotton used for Patagonia t-shirts and other products, which is grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilisers, reducing environmental pollution and protecting farmers' health. The brand also uses recycled materials, such as polyester and nylon for its popular fleeces, which help conserve resources and minimise waste, and employ bluesign approved fabrics, ensuring that its textiles are produced with the least possible harm to people and the environment.

Patagonia is committed to the ethical sourcing of down insulation used in its products. The brand adheres to the Responsible Down Standard, which guarantees that down using in Patagonia jackets is sourced from animals that have not been subjected to unnecessary harm.

Many of the products are also Fair Trade Certified, which means that the company pays a premium for every item produced in a Fair Trade Certified factory. This premium goes directly to the workers, who can use it to improve their livelihoods or invest in community projects. This certification ensures that Patagonia's products are made under fair labour conditions and promotes social equity.

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Nudie Jeans

Nudie Jeans, a Swedish denim brand established in 2001 by Maria Erixon, has been unwavering in its commitment to sustainability and ethical practices from the very beginning. With a deep-rooted passion for denim and a strong sense of social and environmental responsibility, Nudie Jeans has emerged as a trailblazer in the world of sustainable fashion.

From the start, the story of Nudie has been intrinsically linked to ethical practices, starting with its core product - denim. Nudie Jeans has always focused on producing high-quality, long-lasting jeans that are designed to age beautifully. This emphasis on durability encourages customers to wear and love their jeans for an extended period, reducing waste and promoting responsible consumption.

Sustainable Innovations & Collections

Actively engaging in campaigns and initiatives helps to raise awareness about the importance of sustainability and ethical production in fashion. For instance, Nudie Jeans participates in the Fashion Revolution movement, which aims to promote transparency, sustainability, and fair labour practices in the fashion industry.

The Nudie Jeans Material Tool is an innovative internal tool that supports the brand's commitment to sustainable practices by assessing the environmental impact of various materials used in its products. This tool evaluates materials based on several criteria, including water consumption, energy use, chemical management, and potential for recycling. By using the Material Tool, Nudie Jeans can make informed decisions about the materials it incorporates into its products, ensuring that they align with the brand's sustainability goals.

The Material Tool also helps Nudie Jeans identify opportunities for improvement in its supply chain, such as working with suppliers to reduce water and energy consumption during the production process. This proactive approach to material selection and management contributes significantly to the brand's sustainable practices and overall environmental performance.

The Rebirth Collection from Nudie is also a testament to the brand's dedication to sustainable practices and circular fashion. This innovative collection features garments crafted from post-consumer recycled denim, breathing new life into worn-out jeans that would otherwise be discarded. By incorporating recycled materials into the Rebirth Collection, Nudie Jeans not only reduces waste but also conserves valuable resources, such as water and energy, typically required in the production of new textiles. This creative approach to repurposing discarded denim exemplifies the brands’ commitment to minimising its environmental impact and promoting responsible consumption, further solidifying the brand's position as a leader in sustainable fashion.

A Commitment To Organic Cotton & Fair Conditions

Nudie Jeans is committed to using 100% organic cotton in all its denim products. Organic cotton farming avoids the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, thereby reducing environmental pollution and protecting farmers' health. By using organic cotton, Nudie denim supports more sustainable agricultural practices and reduces its ecological footprint.

Ensuring fair labour conditions across its supply chain is a top priority for the brand. They maintain close relationships with their suppliers, regularly auditing their facilities to ensure they meet stringent social and environmental standards. Nudie Jeans is also a member of the Fair Wear Foundation, an independent, non-profit organisation that works to improve labour conditions in the garment industry.

Circular Consumption

Nudie Jeans actively promotes a circular approach to denim consumption through its "Repair, Reuse, Recycle" philosophy. The brand offers free repair services for its jeans, helping customers extend their garments' lifespan and reducing waste. Additionally, Nudie Jeans encourages customers to trade in their worn-out jeans for a discount on a new pair, as part of its reuse program. The collected jeans are then either repaired and sold as pre-loved items or recycled into new products, further minimising waste.

Faulty garments that cannot be sold are also repurposed whenever possible. For instance, Nudie Jeans collaborates with external partners to recycle damaged denim products into insulation material for the construction industry. This approach ensures that even items deemed unsuitable for sale contribute to a sustainable and circular economy.

The brand is also committed to being transparent about its production processes and supply chain. They share detailed information about its suppliers, factories, and the social and environmental impact of its products on its website. This transparency empowers customers to make informed choices and supports Nudie Jeans' mission to promote sustainability and ethical practices in the fashion industry.

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Colorful Standard

Colorful Standard, a Danish clothing brand founded in 2017 by Tue Deleuran, has swiftly earned a reputation for its commitment to ethical and sustainable practices in the fashion industry. Focused on creating high-quality, timeless basics in a vibrant array of colours, Colorful Standard has seamlessly integrated sustainability and ethical values into its brand story and product range.

From its inception, Colorful Standard's mission has been to challenge the fast-fashion mentality by offering durable, long-lasting garments made from eco-friendly materials under fair labour conditions. The brand's core values revolve around three main pillars: simplicity, sustainability, and social responsibility; each contributing to its ethical practices and at the heart of what the brand stands for.

Simple Products Made To Last

Colorful Standard aims to combat overconsumption in the fashion industry by focusing on creating timeless essentials that are designed to last multiple seasons, transcending fleeting trends. The brand's commitment to simplicity and durability encourages customers to invest in high-quality, versatile garments that can be effortlessly incorporated into their wardrobes year-round. 

By offering a range of classic, minimalist designs in an array of vibrant colours, the brand allows customers to express their personal style without succumbing to the pressures of fast fashion. From Colorful Standard t-shirts in both long and short sleeve options, through to sweatshirts, trousers, Colorful Standard shirts and more, the brand combines timeless designs with a huge choice of colours which means there’s plenty for customers to enjoy and wear in almost any situation.

This approach not only promotes sustainable consumption habits but also helps reduce the environmental impact associated with the constant production and disposal of trend-driven, short-lived garments. Their product range consists of wardrobe essentials, such as t-shirts, sweatshirts, and hoodies, characterised by their minimalist design and versatility, and can be worn season after season, reducing the need for constant wardrobe updates and promoting sustainable consumption habits.

A Commitment To Sustainability

Colorful Standard is dedicated to incorporating sustainable materials in its product range, with a particular focus on organic cotton and recycled merino wool. These materials are not only eco-friendly but also certified by the Global Recycled Standard (GRS), ensuring their responsible sourcing and traceability. 

Organic cotton, grown without the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilisers, offers a more environmentally friendly alternative to conventional cotton, while recycled merino wool repurposes existing wool products, reducing waste and conserving valuable resources. 

The brands’ commitment to sustainability extends to its production processes, with the brand employing reduced spinning and dyeing methods that save water and energy. By utilising these eco-conscious techniques, Colorful Standard minimises its environmental impact while maintaining the high-quality standards for which its garments are known.

Environmentally Conscious Dyes & Processes

Colorful Standard’s choice of Oeko-Tex certified dyes ensures that its colourful garments are produced without the use of hazardous substances, prioritising the safety of both the environment and consumers. The Oeko-Tex certification is a globally recognised standard that guarantees the absence of harmful chemicals in textiles, providing assurance of the brand's dedication to maintaining a greener and more responsible production process.

The pursuit of zero waste highlights the brands’ dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainable practices. The brand employs innovative methods, such as garment dyeing to demand, which ensures that only the required amount of dye is used, minimising waste and resource consumption. Additionally, Colorful Standard utilises precise laser cutting techniques in its production process, enabling the brand to reduce fabric waste significantly by optimising the usage of materials. 

The brand's commitment to a circular economy also extends to repurposing leftover fabric, incorporating it into various applications, such as furniture and accessories, further minimising waste and promoting a more sustainable approach to fashion.

Social Responsibility

Colorful Standard is dedicated to ensuring ethical labour practices throughout its supply chain. The brand's garments are produced in Portugal, where it maintains a close relationship with its suppliers to guarantee fair wages, safe working conditions, and compliance with European labour regulations.

Colorful Standard's ethical labour practices demonstrate the brand's commitment to social responsibility and fair working conditions. By adhering to European labour laws, the brand ensures that its employees are treated with respect and dignity, enjoying safe working environments and fair wages. 

The brand’s manufacturing centre in Portugal further exemplifies its dedication to ethical practices, allowing it to maintain a close relationship with local suppliers and partners, fostering transparency and accountability throughout its supply chain. By choosing to work with local suppliers, Colorful Standard not only supports the regional economy but also reduces the environmental impact of transportation, contributing to a more sustainable fashion industry.

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Fjallraven

Fjallraven, a Swedish outdoor clothing and equipment brand founded in 1936 by Ake Nordin, has long been associated with ethical and sustainable practices. Rooted in a love for nature and a commitment to preserving the environment, Fjallraven's commitment to sustainability is evident throughout its operations, including material selection, production processes, and supply chain management.

From its humble beginnings as a producer of innovative backpacks, Fjallraven has grown to encompass a wide range of outdoor gear, including clothing, tents, and sleeping bags. Throughout its evolution, the brand has maintained a strong focus on environmental stewardship, consistently seeking ways to minimise its ecological footprint while maximising the durability and functionality of its products.

Sustainable Designs

Fjallraven's sustainable designs are centred around a set of guiding principles that prioritise function, ease of use, and eco-friendly practices. The brand's focus on function and simplicity ensures that its products are not only user-friendly but also easily recyclable, contributing to a circular economy. 

By embracing minimalist aesthetics and avoiding fleeting trends, Fjallraven creates style longevity, allowing customers to wear their garments for multiple seasons without feeling outdated. This approach promotes sustainable consumption habits and reduces the need for frequent wardrobe updates.

The brand also emphasises low material impact in its designs, selecting materials that have a minimal effect on the environment without compromising on quality and performance. Moreover, Fjallraven's commitment to material longevity extends beyond creating durable products; it also incorporates timeless designs that encourage long-term use and, ultimately, recyclability.

Sustainable Materials

The dedication to sustainability at Fjallraven is evident in its choice of materials, with the brand incorporating organic, renewable, and recycled materials into its product range. Examples of these eco-friendly materials include recycled wool, organic hemp, and Tencel, each selected for their minimal environmental impact and exceptional performance. Recycled polyester, another key component in Fjallraven's offerings, exemplifies the brand's commitment to a circular economy by repurposing existing materials and reducing waste. Fjallraven's proprietary G-1000 Eco fabric, a blend of recycled polyester and organic cotton, is another testament to the brand's innovative approach to sustainability, providing durable, weather-resistant garments with a reduced environmental footprint and used across the range including bags, hats and Fjallraven outerwear.

Traceable wool, sourced responsibly and adhering to strict animal welfare standards, further underscores Fjallraven's commitment to sustainable and ethical practices.

The commitment to sustainability extends to the brands’ stringent chemical guidelines, established in collaboration with the Swedish Chemicals Group. These guidelines ensure that the brand's products are manufactured without the use of harmful substances, safeguarding both the environment and consumer health. A notable example of Fjallraven's chemical responsibility is its move towards a no-fluorocarbons product range, offering PFC-free alternatives that minimise environmental pollution while maintaining the performance and durability expected from outdoor gear.

Furthermore, Fjallraven's dedication to ethical practices is reflected in its approach to animal welfare. The brand's Down Promise range, for example, guarantees the responsible sourcing of down, adhering to strict standards that prioritise the humane treatment of animals.

Environmental Stewardship & Protection

Fjallraven's ongoing efforts to promote sustainability extend beyond its product range, as the brand actively supports various environmental and social initiatives. For instance, Fjallraven is involved in projects aimed at protecting endangered species, such as the Arctic fox, and preserving threatened ecosystems, demonstrating its commitment to environmental conservation.

Their sustainable production processes are reflected in their adherence to a robust code of conduct, which is based on the guidelines set forth by the Fair Labor Association (FLA). By following the FLA's principles, Fjallraven ensures that its supply chain operates ethically, providing fair wages and safe working conditions for all employees involved in the production of its outdoor clothing and equipment.

In addition to its code of conduct, Fjallraven actively engages in collaborations with various organisations to promote sustainable practices within the industry. As a member of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC), Fjallraven joins forces with other industry leaders to drive environmental and social responsibility throughout the apparel sector. The brand's participation in the Fair Labor Association, which it joined in 2013, further highlights its dedication to ethical labour practices and transparency.

Fjallraven is also a signatory of the United Nations Global Compact, committing itself to the promotion of human rights, fair labour standards, environmental responsibility, and anti-corruption measures. By aligning itself with these global initiatives, Fjallraven demonstrates its unwavering dedication to responsible and sustainable production practices that not only benefit the environment but also the people involved in creating its products. This holistic approach sets a strong example for other brands within the outdoor clothing and equipment industry to follow.

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Cotopaxi

Cotopaxi, an outdoor gear and apparel brand founded in 2014, has quickly made a name for itself as a pioneer in ethical and sustainable practices within the industry. Named after the Cotopaxi volcano in Ecuador, the brand is deeply rooted in a commitment to social and environmental responsibility, shaping the company's ethos from its inception. 

Cotopaxi's mission is to create positive social and environmental impact through carefully crafted products that empower both consumers and the communities involved in their production. To achieve these objectives, Cotopaxi works tirelessly to improve ethical and sustainability standards across its product range, which includes everything from vibrant t-shirts to popular Cotopaxi bags and Cotopaxi jackets.

Gear For Good

Cotopaxi's unique approach to doing business extends beyond its product range, as the brand actively gives back to communities around the world through its "Gear for Good" initiative.

A portion of the company's profits is allocated to support poverty alleviation, education, and community development projects, embodying the brand's commitment to creating a positive impact both socially and environmentally. 

By focusing strongly on ethical practices, Cotopaxi showcases its dedication to making a difference within the outdoor gear and apparel industry, ultimately inspiring other brands to follow in its footsteps.

Sustainable Brand Connections

Cotopaxi's commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility is further highlighted by its Climate Neutral certification, demonstrating the brand's dedication to measuring, reducing, and offsetting its carbon footprint. 

As a Climate Neutral certified company, Cotopaxi takes actionable steps to minimise its environmental impact and actively participates in carbon offset projects that help to combat climate change.

Additionally, as a proud member of the 1% for the Planet initiative, Cotopaxi donates 1% of its annual revenue to environmental causes, further cementing its position as a brand that genuinely cares about the planet and its future.

Cotopaxi's approach to sustainable design also encompasses ethical sourcing practices, ensuring that materials are procured responsibly and with the well-being of both people and the planet in mind. By prioritising transparency and accountability in its supply chain, Cotopaxi fosters a culture of sustainability and ethical practices that extends from the materials used in its products to the individuals involved in their creation.

Supply Chain Commitments

The brand adheres to the United Nations Global Compact, aligning its operations with universal principles concerning human rights, labour standards, environmental responsibility, and anti-corruption measures. In addition, Cotopaxi has adopted the Ethical Trading Initiative's Better Buying guide, ensuring that its purchasing practices promote fair working conditions and responsible sourcing throughout its supply chain.

To further strengthen its commitment to ethical practices, Cotopaxi has implemented a standard code of conduct for its suppliers and manufacturing partners, fostering transparency and accountability across all stages of production. This code of conduct guarantees that the people involved in creating Cotopaxi's products are treated with dignity and respect, upholding the brand's core values of social responsibility and fairness.

The brands’ dedication to sustainability is also evident in the materials it uses in its product range. They are committed to utilising repurposed, recycled, and responsibly sourced materials, minimising waste and environmental impact while maintaining the quality and performance customers expect from outdoor gear and apparel. 

By incorporating these sustainable materials and adhering to rigorous ethical standards in its supply chain, Cotopaxi showcases its unwavering commitment to fostering a more responsible and environmentally friendly future for the industry.

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Edwin Jeans

Edwin, a renowned denim brand founded in Tokyo, Japan in 1947, has long been associated with innovation and craftsmanship in the world of jeans. Over the years, Edwin has evolved and adapted to the growing awareness surrounding environmental and social responsibility. Today, the brand is committed to improving ethical and sustainability standards across its product range, aligning its operations with the values of modern, environmentally-conscious consumers.

Edwin has continuously sought to create long-lasting, quality products that stand the test of time. By crafting durable denim in a range of fits that can be worn for years, Edwin not only creates value for its customers but also helps to reduce the environmental impact of fast fashion and disposable clothing trends.

Sustainable Product Ranges

Edwin is committed to incorporating sustainable materials into its product range, actively utilising tools such as the Higgs Materials Sustainability Index (MSI) and the MADE-BY Environmental Benchmark. These indices help Edwin evaluate the environmental impact of materials and ensure that the brand selects eco-friendly options for its garments.

The brand's focus on sustainability is reflected in the use of recycled and organic materials in its products. By incorporating eco-friendly options like organic cotton, recycled polyester, and other sustainable fibres, Edwin actively reduces its environmental footprint while maintaining the quality and durability that its customers expect.

In addition to its material choices, Edwin is equally conscientious about its manufacturing processes. The brand partners with Saitex, the first B-Corp certified factory, known for its commitment to social and environmental responsibility. This partnership ensures that Edwin's products are produced ethically, with minimal environmental impact and adherence to fair labour practices.

Edwin's commitment to sustainability goes beyond its choice of fabrics; the brand also takes great care in selecting eco-friendly trims and accessories for its garments. By using environmentally responsible materials for buttons, rivets, and snap fasteners, Edwin minimises the environmental impact of these often-overlooked components. The brand sources eco-friendly metal trims, ensuring that even the smallest details of its products align with its sustainability goals.

On top of this, Edwin creates labels made from recycled plastic bottles, reducing plastic waste and promoting a circular economy within its production process. The brand also prioritises the use of FSC certified hang tags, guaranteeing that the paper materials originate from responsibly managed forests that adhere to strict environmental and social standards.

The brand is continually working to improve its sustainability practices, taking steps to ensure that its jeans are crafted using YKK NATULON zippers, an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional zippers. The brand also incorporates Coats EcoVerde, a premium sewing thread made from 100% recycled plastic bottles, further reducing its reliance on virgin materials and minimising waste.

Brand Certifications

Edwin also recognises the importance of ethical labour practices and is committed to ensuring fair working conditions across its supply chain. By collaborating closely with suppliers and maintaining transparency in its operations, Edwin fosters a culture of responsibility and accountability that aligns with its core values.

As a member of the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI), Edwin supports sustainable cotton farming practices that reduce environmental impact, improve livelihoods, and promote efficient water usage. The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification further emphasises the brand's efforts to incorporate recycled materials into its products and reduce waste.

Additionally, the ASDA Organic certification ensures that the brand's organic cotton is grown without the use of harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilisers. Edwin's commitment to responsible paper sourcing is demonstrated by its Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification, which guarantees that the brand's paper products come from responsibly managed forests. 

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) and the Organic 100 Content Standard further attest to Edwin's dedication to using organic materials and adhering to strict ecological and social criteria throughout its supply chain.

Green Packaging

Edwin's dedication to sustainability extends to its packaging as well, with the brand actively seeking eco-friendly alternatives to traditional packaging materials. 

For example, Edwin uses recycled polyester bags for its garments, reducing plastic waste and promoting the reuse of existing materials.

In addition, the brand has adopted compostable plant-based envelopes for shipping its products, providing an environmentally responsible option that breaks down harmlessly over time.

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Napapijri

Napapijri, an Italian outdoor clothing brand founded in 1987, has long been known for its innovative approach to design and dedication to quality. Over the years, the brand has embraced the increasing global awareness of environmental and social responsibility, working diligently to improve ethical and sustainability standards across its product range.

The Circular Series

Recognising the impact of the fashion industry on the environment, Napapijri has developed a range of initiatives to reduce its footprint and promote sustainable practices. One of the brand's most significant efforts in this regard is the Circular Series, which is a pioneering collection that embodies the brand's commitment to sustainability and innovative design. 

This range of fully recyclable garments has achieved Cradle to Cradle Certified Gold status, reflecting the high level of environmental and ethical consideration that goes into their creation. 

The Circular Series, which includes popular Napapijri jackets and anoraks, is designed with a "made to be made again" philosophy, ensuring that each piece can be easily disassembled and transformed into new products at the end of its life cycle. 

This groundbreaking approach to fashion minimises waste and promotes a circular economy within the industry, demonstrating Napapijri's dedication to addressing the environmental challenges faced by the fashion world and contributing to a more sustainable future for all.

Eco-Friendly Product Ranges

Napapijri is also committed to using eco-friendly materials throughout the whole of its product range. The brand sources sustainably grown cotton, used in things like Napapijri t-shirts, and incorporates recycled fabrics, such as recycled polyester and regenerated nylon, in its garments. Napapijri's dedication to using environmentally responsible materials extends to its iconic Skidoo jacket, which is now made entirely from recycled materials.

In a bold move to prioritise animal welfare and promote ethical practices, Napapijri banned the use of fur and down in its products in 2016. As a brand that values innovation, Napapijri developed its unique Thermo-Fibre insulation as a cruelty-free, high-performance alternative to traditional down.

This cutting-edge technology provides excellent thermal insulation and warmth, while also being lightweight and breathable.

In addition to its focus on sustainable materials and designs, Napapijri is equally concerned with ethical labour practices. The brand has implemented a comprehensive code of conduct for its suppliers, ensuring that workers throughout its supply chain are treated fairly and with respect.

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Nike

Nike, the world-renowned sportswear brand, has been making significant steps in recent years as part of an effort to position itself as a leader when it comes to ethical and sustainably made products. With a strong focus on innovation, the company has worked diligently to find new ways to minimise its environmental impact and improve working conditions across its vast supply chain.

Circular Solutions

The brands’ Circular Solutions campaign is a key part of their sustainability strategy, focusing on the development and implementation of circular economy principles to minimise waste, reduce resource consumption, and extend the life of its products. 

This initiative emphasises the importance of designing products that can be easily disassembled, repaired, or repurposed, thereby reducing the environmental impact of the brand's offerings.

The Circular Solutions campaign encourages the use of recycled and sustainable materials in Nike's product range, including recycled polyester, organic cotton, and innovative eco-friendly fabrics.

The campaign also supports the development of more sustainable production methods, such as the brand’s Flyknit technology, which significantly reduces material waste.

Move To Zero

One of Nike's most significant sustainability initiatives is the Move to Zero campaign, which aims to achieve zero carbon emissions and zero waste across the company's entire operations.

This ambitious goal is backed by a series of targeted actions, including increasing the use of renewable energy in its facilities, reducing waste in the production process, and promoting recycling and circular economy principles.

Recycling & Donation

Nike's recycling and donation services play a crucial role in promoting sustainability and reducing waste within the sportswear industry. By offering consumers the opportunity to recycle or donate their used shoes and apparel, Nike encourages a more responsible approach to consumption and disposal, ensuring that valuable resources are not simply discarded in landfills. 

Through programs like Reuse-A-Shoe and Nike Grind, the brand collects worn-out athletic shoes, grinds them down, and repurposes the materials to create sports surfaces or components for new products, thereby extending the life of these materials and reducing the overall environmental impact. For example, many Nike sneakers use Nike Regrind material for the outer soles, which is made from recycling old products into new material.

Similarly, Nike's partnership with organisations like Good360 and Community Recycling ensures that gently used clothing and shoes are donated to people in need, promoting a culture of sharing and supporting local communities.

This approach not only helps to reduce waste and conserve resources but also fosters a sense of social responsibility and commitment to sustainability among consumers.

Re-Creation

Nike's Re-Creation campaign is an innovative initiative that focuses on turning locally collected Nike products into new designs, showcasing the brand's commitment to advancing a circular vision for the sportswear industry. 

By transforming used materials and products into fresh, creative designs, Nike actively embraces a more sustainable approach to fashion, contributing to the ultimate goal of a zero-carbon, zero-waste future.

Eco-Friendly Materials

Nike's dedication to sustainability is evident in its product range, with numerous eco-friendly offerings that utilise recycled materials and innovative, low-impact production methods:

‍Nike Forward: This innovative material is made from ultra-thin, needle-punched layers and boasts a reduced carbon footprint of 75%. Nike Forward showcases the brand's dedication to cutting-edge technology and environmental responsibility, helping to minimise its impact on the planet.

‍Nike Air: With a focus on reducing waste, Nike reuses more than 90% of the waste from materials used for its Air soles to create new, innovative cushioning systems. This practice demonstrates Nike's commitment to recycling and repurposing materials, contributing to a more circular economy.

‍Nike Flyknit: This lightweight fabric is precision-engineered to produce an average of 60% less waste than traditional footwear-upper manufacturing. Remarkably, each shoe upper made from Flyknit incorporates 6-7 plastic bottles, highlighting Nike's dedication to turning waste into valuable resources.

‍Nike Flyleather: Designed to feel and smell like natural leather, Flyleather is made by binding at least 50% recycled leather fibres with synthetic fibres using a water-powered process. This environmentally friendly alternative to traditional leather underscores Nike's pursuit of sustainable materials and production methods.

‍Recycled Polyester, Sustainable Cotton, and Recycled Nylon: Nike also incorporates a variety of other sustainable materials into its products, such as recycled polyester, sustainable cotton, and recycled nylon. By making conscious choices in material selection, Nike actively contributes to a more sustainable and eco-friendly future for the sportswear industry.

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A Move to Ethical & Sustainable Fashion

From established brands making operational changes towards a more sustainable future, to younger brands built from the ground up on an ethos of ethical practices, there’s no doubt that the fashion industry is in the process of changing for the better.

Today’s consumers don’t simply want to follow the latest trends; many prioritise buying products from brands whose ethical standards align with their own. This means companies must put ethical and sustainable practices towards the top of their agenda, and continue to develop innovative production methods and improve standards throughout their supply chains in order to stay relevant.

Whether consumer driven, or led by brands and competition within the sector, a move to a more ethical and sustainable fashion industry can only be a good thing for the planet and everyone on it.