Consider the bigger picture
We can all play our part towards a more ethical industry and small changes can make a big difference. You might source low-impact natural materials such as organic cotton, peace-silk, and wool, or choose to reuse materials and utilise offcuts.
Move like Maija Nygren, founder of Almaborealis, who makes playful education resources for all ages out of natural materials sourced locally.
3D garment constructor Nastassia Ramazankhani shares this ethos; 'Inspired by proven theories about how localised production is a solution to the mass consumption of material waste within the textiles and fashion industry, I intend to divert away from global outsourcing'.
Consider localism and provenance, whether you are sourcing materials from a specific region or using a local manufacturer to help with the production of your objects. Selling local is another objective for many, restricting shipping to low carbon outputs. Katie Allen's brand Loopy Ewes does this very well, working with Fibreshed Southwest.
If you're not sure where to start, ask yourself these questions:
- Do you know where your source materials come from?
- Do you know the impact of making these source materials has upon the local area and its community?
- Can you find alternatives that would have a lower carbon footprint?
We may not have all the answers but starting this conversation with your supply chain can be your first step towards reducing your impact and building a more socially and environmentally conscious business.