A Path Toward a More Sustainable Future
Written by Athena Voudiotis, General Manager, Huxbaby
With over 130 billion garments produced globally each year, and only around 1% of them recycled (S.J, Kew), the fast fashion model of low cost, low durability and high-volume fashion continues to feed an unsustainable cycle.
Creating a more sustainable future means rethinking the very fundamentals of how products are designed and produced. Decisions made at each step of the supply chain—from designing with longevity in mind, to material sourcing, to what happens when a product reaches the end of its life (cradle to cradle thinking) —have the potential to reduce waste, lower greenhouse gas emissions and reduce environmental impact.
The design stage is extremely important in determining how sustainable a product can be throughout its life. Key decision include: selecting fabrications which are organic or recycled and which are made with a lower energy consumption, designing so that products are not hard to recycle later in their life, being mindful of how energy intensive certain printing or embellishment techniques are and choosing carefully, considering how to increase functionality and reusability of the garment through its design features, and how it is packaged are all integral.
By taking a closer look at how products are sourced, produced, and managed, there are opportunities to make better, minimise waste and increase the lifetime value of a garment. Small and incremental changes can be the most effective. It’s about being mindful and creative along every stage of the value chain.
Building a more sustainable supply chain is an ongoing and ever evolving journey, requiring commitment and collaboration at every level. It starts with holding strong values and living them daily internally and externally with partners.
It’s important to choose and work with suppliers who share your values, and are willing to be transparent and committed to mindful practices. Due diligence is essential and forms the basis for decisions of whether to onboard a new supplier.
Beyond production, it is also important to consider how products are consumed and cared for after purchase. By offering easy ways for consumers to reuse, donate, or repurpose their clothing, we can all play a part in reducing overconsumption and keeping items out of landfill.
Brands have the ability and responsibility to make positive change. Now is the time for all of us to embrace the challenge of aligning our values with our actions to build a more ethical and sustainable future.
