The fashion landscape today can no longer disregard the growing need for sustainability. The demand for ethical fashion worldwide is compelling brands to reassess their present operations and embrace eco-friendly practices instead.
Thus, convincing the clothing sector to take concrete measures toward better, transparent, and clean manufacturing practices. This includes material origin, research, supply chain, better working conditions, fair wages, reducing waste, and mindful production.
Today we look at some of the renowned designers and brands that are paving the way towards an ethical and sustainable future.
New Fibers to Fabrics
Zara invests in Galy, a US sustainable agriculture firm
Zara’s parent company, Inditex has acquired a stake in US-based sustainable agriculture startup Galy. This move is part of their strategy to invest in a sustainable economy.
Galy claims to have developed an innovative biotechnology process that creates cotton in a lab from plant cells known as Literally Cotton.
In 2022, Inditex also invested in Circ, a US tech firm that specializes in textile recycling.
These investments will enable Inditex to source 40 percent of its fibers from conventional recycling and another 25 percent from new and innovative materials by 2030. Inditex has also committed to cut their emissions by half across their supply chain during the same time.
Fulgar, an Italian synthetic yarn manufacturer, launched a new sustainable yet durable yarn
Fulgar specializes in man-made fibers. They introduced Q-Geo which is a bio-based nylon yarn that combines the benefits of natural fibers and the performance of high-tech yarns. It is the perfect balance of comfort, sustainability, and tech specs.
This next-gen material utilizes non-fossil alternatives and partial use of corn waste. This bio-based nylon yarn is a promising solution for companies that are looking for eco-friendly raw materials.
UK-based biotech start-up introduces lab-grown leather
3D Bio-Tissues (3DBT) has launched 100 percent sustainable and animal-free leather that aims to help meet the rising demand for leather-alternative products in the luxury fashion sector.
The animal-conscious leather alternative, 3DBT explained, uses immortalized cells to create tissue-engineered skin. This skin or hide structure takes more than six weeks to form the final skin product without the use of any cellulose or plastics in a lab.
The company emphasized that no animals are harmed in their 100 percent animal tissue. It also helps to address the environmental impact of present-day tanning procedures.
Sustainable polyester for The North Face Japan
To produce more sustainable polyester fibers for The North Face in Japan, a consortium of seven companies across 5 countries has formed. Carbon capture and utilization (CCU) and bio-based materials will be used in manufacturing instead of fossil materials.
These companies are Goldwin, Mitsubishi Corporation, Chiyoda Corporation, SK geo centric, Indorama Ventures, India Glycols, and Neste. Goldwin will use the fibers to produce The North Face products in July 2024.
From Fabrics to Garments
Ralph Lauren’s take on Recycled Cotton
Ralph Lauren is the official outfitter for the USA team at the Olympic and Paralympic Games Paris 2024. The Polo Shirts in the Team USA collection use 100 percent recycled cotton. The brand has partnered with a tech start-up, Natural Fiber Welding (NFW), which took years of research and the latest chemical engineering technology innovations to create superior quality recycled cotton. The brand has also used recycled polyester, USA-grown Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) certified wool, and other recycled material called Clarus to create this collection.
Diane von Furstenberg (DVF) Collaborates with Lenzing
Diane von Furstenberg and the Lenzing Group have joined hands to promote sustainability. They committing to producing comfortable and stylish fashion. DVF has introduced TENCEL™ and LENZING™ ECOVERO™ branded fibers into their flagship collection. These fibers are made from natural raw material wood by using 50 percent less carbon emissions and water consumption. The 2024 summer collection, “The Festival of Colour” is inspired by summer festivals around the world.
Ba&sh achieves B Corp certification
This Parisian womenswear brand is on its way to increasing the circularity of its garments and reducing its carbon footprint. They have achieved B Corp Certification with an outstanding score of 98 points, ahead of the industry standard of 80.9. They were evaluated in five areas: governance, community, customers, workers, and environment. They are actively working to use certified and novel materials, sustainable development strategy, circularity, traceability and be part of a diverse and inclusive community in the company.
H&M launches its first Regenerative Cotton collection
The company launched a mini summer capsule collection. The collection consists of two kaftans, two maxi dresses, a bralette, and a matching skirt. The percentage used of certified organic cotton and regenerative cotton remains undisclosed.
This unconventional cotton is grown without any artificial pesticides, fertilizers, or GMOs. Its focus is restoring the soil, animal welfare, and well-being of farmers. The company is working with farmers in India to introduce them to regenerative farming methods and bring systematic change through governance and local ownership.
With the industry’s environmental impact, the shift towards sustainability is urgent and requires concrete solutions. As leading brands change the narrative, it promises steady growth toward a thriving and eco-friendly future for all.
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