It is not a secret that the textile manufacture industry causes huge amounts of air and water pollution while trying to satisfy the worlds growing demands for clothes, shoes and accessories. It is the consumerism, and the desire to own more and more goods that drives our global economy, and together is creating an enormous amounts of waste which destroys our planet.
However, more and more companies are trying to participate in the eco-conscious and socially responsible way of manufacturing, distributing and operating their business. I am a huge advocate for using the products made with the recycled materials and manufactured the ecologically friendly way with the support of social causes. When we have choice of either taking a part in the global pollution or fighting against it, why would you chose the first? Let’s look at some fashion designers and brands which help sustain our planets naturals resources.
Aside from eco-friendly and organic household products Toms are well known for their mission to donate a pair of shoes for every pair that is purchased. Toms work with more than 75 different companies who participate in the same shoe giving programs around the world. Toms started with basic design of loafer-looking canvas shoes and now use variety of materials and designs for their shoe collection. Aside from being super-comfortable, they are extremely affordable and versatile. I personally own four pairs and wear them all summer long!
A company that borrowed the idea from Toms, but cannot be blamed for it. Doing good is contagious. Warby Parker donates a pair of glasses every time someone purchase a pair. WB have distributed over half-million pairs worldwide and counting. They also provide free eye exams in the low income communities and are advocates for safe and socially responsible work environment. The glasses WP offers are of a great quality and have the fashion-forward design. The average price for a pair of optical frames is $95 and the price for sunnies varies from $95 for non-prescription to $150 for prescription lenses.
A clothing brand which has several stores in US and the online marketplace. The idea behind the Reformation brand is to make clothes out of vintage garments and surplus materials and create as little waste as possible. The company was started in Los Angeles, then more stores were opened in New York. All stores were build using recycled and eco-conscious materials and carry organic skincare and cosmetic products besides its clothing line. Their designs became extremely popular when celebrities like Rosie Huntington-Whitley, Rihanna, Alexa Chung, Rumer Williams and Miley Cirus “joined the reformation”, in other words showed their support for the brand. The company’s slogan is “Join the Reformation”, and calls for everyone to support the movement against the waste and pollution caused by the manufacturing industry.
Launched in summer 2013 H&M Conscious Collection promises a more responsible, more ethical and more sustainable way to do business. Their statement says: “Our vision is that all our operations should be run in a way that is economically, socially and environmentally sustainable. ” Company is using natural resources for their production, they follow the “Reduce, Reuse and Recycle” rule and give back to communities in need.With their affordable pricing and high volume the company is successful in raising money and spreading awareness of the Conscious Collection so they can help build the better future. The latest contributions include the benefaction to clean water in Bangladesh and support of the “Haiyan” typhoon victims in Philippines.
Whether you have or haven’t yet participate in the global movement for a better future of our planet it is always a good idea to help others as much as we can. And whether its shoes from Toms or a sweater from H&M, a conscious choice to support a social cause is always a small step towards a healthier environment.
How do you make the world better?
