I, too, am guilty of too much online shopping. More times than I'm willing to admit, I find myself mindlessly scrolling through website after website, adding unnecessary clothing to my online shopping cart. However, a few years ago I learned about the enormous amount of strain the clothing industry has on the environment, and the damage that results. The fashion industry alone accounts for about 5% of the world's greenhouse gas emissions. (citation) From factory manufacturing to transportation and waste, each article of clothing we buy has made a negative impact on our environment through its production and distribution.
Next time you find yourself browsing the online world of shopping, check out companies that strive to help the environment, like these:
SandCloud
https://www.dailybreak.com/break/sand-cloud-save-the-fishies-interview-product-round-up
SandCloud, a clothing company based in Southern California, strives to help marine life and ocean health through sustainability. Their products are made with recycled materials and they feature a number of different sustainable products like reusable straws and reef-safe sunscreen. In fact, 10% of their profits go towards non-profit marine conservation organizations. This company sells towels, apparel, and accessories. However, they are best known for their one-of-a-kind beach towels. These towels dry quickly, shake off sand easily, and come in a variety of different prints and patterns! Price Range: $-$
Everlane
https://brandsbyovo.com/knowing-brand-everlane/
Everlane is one of the few companies to practice what they call "radical transparency." They believe that consumers have the right to know what goes on behind the scenes to make their products, revealing the true material, labor, and transportation costs of each item. In addition, they strive to make ethical choices in labor and manufacturing, choosing the most sustainable factories across the world. Made with great quality material, their clothings, ranging from shirts to jeans, are made to last. Price Range: $-$
Threads 4 Thought
https://www.vegan-gf-heaven.net/threads-for-thought-sustainable-wardrobe-review/
Threads 4 Thought is a clothing company that strives to leave a smaller impact on the environment while advocating for stronger ethical standards in the fashion industry. To make their products, they use the most sustainable products in the world, including Organic Cotton, Recycled Polyester, and Lenzing Modal. In addition, they work with ethical factories that practice the highest level of sustainable production. Not only are they environmentally conscious, but they have awesome basics and active wear! Price Range: $-$$
Pact
https://anthembranding.com/project/pact/
Pact is unique in the fact that they specialize in organic materials. They believe in the importance of wearing clothes that are not only made in an ethical way, but are made out of sustainable, healthy materials. In addition, Pact practices sustainable and ethical manufacturing of their clothing. Price Range: $-$$
Girlfriend Collective
https://www.mygreengoodiebag.com/home/girlfriend-collective
Girlfriend Collective is an activewear brand that believes in ethical manufacturing and using recycled materials. They use old water bottles and fishing nets, waste that is normally found polluting our oceans, to create their products. In addition, they practice ethical labor and ensure fair working hours, living wages, and safe conditions for workers in their factories. Price Range: $-$$
Patagonia
https://ww.fashionnetwork.com/news/Patagonia-launches-mail-in-option-for-worn-wear-sustainability-program,1109373.html
Patagonia is arguably one of the largest brands to advocate for environmental sustainability in the clothing industry. From adult and children's apparel to camping and hiking gear, 72% of Patagonia's line is made out of recycled materials. They use renewable electricity and ensure that their workers are supported by the Fair Trade Program. From production to distribution and labor, Patagonia's dedication to ethical and sustainable practices extends far beyond itself by influencing those around them to make a change. Price Range: $-$$
Amour Vert
https://finestfashionsite.com/amour-vert-green-love/
Amour Vert strives to practice sustainability in all aspects of their company from manufacturing to retail. Unlike other clothing companies, 97% of Amour Vert's items are produced only miles away from their retail space in San Francisco, California. They manufacture their products in low quantities and with sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, to eliminate waste. Lastly, this company has partnered with American Forests to ensure that for each t-shirt purchased, a tree is planted. Price Range: $-$$
Reformation
https://www.theitalianreve.com/the-sustainability-report-of-reformation/
Reformation is a company built on the foundation of sustainability. By investing in green building infrastructure, they reduce their waste, water, and energy footprint on the environment. They are one of the few clothing brands to achieve net-zero carbon emissions, use wind power suppliers and LED lights in each retail location, and recycle 75% of their garbage. While Reformation is known for their large variety of formal and casual dresses, they also carry casual wear like t-shirts and jeans. Price Range: $$-$$$
Yes, clothing is a necessity. And for many of us, shopping is also a fun activity. But, next time you have the urge to buy some clothes online, take a moment and check out companies like these.
