Sustainable Clothing Companies Are Showing The Need For New Methods of Production

Clothing production is one of the most polluting industries in the world. From raw material extraction through design, manufacturing, packaging, and transportation, each step of the journey has significant implications for our planet's shrinking resources. Many companies are starting to realize that eco-friendly practices are not only better for humanity, but also business. Some brands are taking real steps to create products that don't require toxic chemicals. Others simply aim to make themselves look green by using recycled materials and recycled packaging. Customers are becoming increasingly discerning about the social and environmental impact of each purchase they make, so brands must start thinking beyond just looking green. They need to actually be green to survive in the marketplace. That means staying away from harmful chemicals, using natural or organic fabrics that don't require intensive chemical treatment and working to improve recycling rates. The more customers learn about the damaging environmental effects of clothing production, the more likely they are to choose brands that align with their values. With enough pressure from consumers, we can make sure the companies who prioritize the environment and humanity over profit convert to sustainable practices. Let us start with these five companies who are setting the bar high for sustainable fashion brands everywhere.

1 - Zara

Zara's parent company Inditex is one of the largest apparel companies in the world. Their impressive size allows them to make large-scale decisions that have a significant impact on the environment and their supply chain. In an effort to minimize water usage, they use a steam-free ironing system in all of their factories and this cuts down on energy and water consumption. Zara has also pledged to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2025 across all of its brands and product categories. By 2022, Zara wants 50% of its products to be part of their Join Life collection. This line of products is manufactured with environmentally friendly processes and raw ingredients. All boxes, bags, hangers, and hangers are now recycled and reused by the company. By 2025, Zara wants to utilize only sustainable textiles and materials in its clothes manufacturing process.

2 - Afends

Afends is an Australia-based clothing company that strives to produce quality vintage-inspired products. The company pushes the sustainability agenda by handpicking the most sustainable fibres with the least impact on the environment. Most of their products are made from organic cotton and other natural materials, so they don't need to be washed as frequently as other brands. They also use as many recycled materials as possible for packaging and boxes. When customers receive their orders in reusable Afends bags, they know that their purchase was not only eco-friendly but also conscious of other people and the future.

3 - Plant Faced Clothing

Plant Faced Clothing is an ethical line whose clothes are handmade in small batches, which minimizes waste and reduces the brand's impact on the environment. They are especially dedicated to being vegan, which means none of their products are made from any animal by-products. Plant Faced Clothing uses eco-friendly fabrics that are manufactured with renewable energy to reduce their reliance on fossil fuels. They source their raw materials from companies with fair trade practices to reduce working hours, pay workers fairly and provide them with healthcare benefits. Plant Faced Clothing is part of a growing movement that aims to create ethical fashion without compromising on style or comfort.

4 - Patagonia

Patagonia has long been known for its commitment to the environment. Their products are made with sustainable materials like recycled polyester, organic cotton, hemp, and wool. They use water-based inks to reduce the number of toxins released during printing processes. Even after their products are made, they can be recycled through the brand's Common Threads program. Patagonia also plants one tree for every item sold to offset its carbon footprint. Whether or not you are an outdoor enthusiast, it is easy to support Patagonia's values of reducing toxic waste and using natural resources responsibly. Patagonia creates timeless designs and long-lasting products to ensure sustainability.

5 - People Tree

People Tree is a leader in the fashion industry's ethical trade model. The company partners with international communities to find ways to become more sustainable. They use organic cotton, recycled plastic bottles and ethical dyes. Everything People Tree produces is organic, fairly traded, and made with eco-friendly dyes throughout the entire process. The brand believes that consumers should be able to choose where their products come from without worrying about the exploitation of workers and the environment. People Tree doesn't just expect change at the top; they also involve their employees in initiatives that reduce waste and use sustainable materials.