Sustainability Pulse #78
Sustainability Trends & News Worth Exploring — February 25th , 2023
Hey friends!
Welcome back to another edition of our newsletter, where we dive headfirst into the fascinating world of fashion and sustainability, from groundbreaking initiatives to the latest industry buzz.
In this edition, we're unpacking everything from the potential demise of American polyester to the latest eco-friendly initiatives sweeping the industry.
We'll be delving into the nitty-gritty of fast fashion's dirty secrets and exploring the rise of sustainable luxury.
Plus, we've got the scoop on Zalando's green claims, Temu's shopping app, and Canopy's efforts to greenify Chinese fashion companies.
So, whether you're a fashionista or an eco-warrior (or both!), there's something here for everyone.
Let's dive in and explore the exciting intersection of fashion and sustainability together!
Is This the End of American Polyester?
New federal safety regulations could push PET plastic makers out of the country for good.
Decoding #SheinTheKnow: Real Reform or Clever Camouflage?
Shein’s #SheinTheKnow Initiative: A Genuine Turnaround or Just Another Marketing Ploy? Let’s explore.
Ordering from Shein or Temu? Those imports might not stay duty-free forever
U.S. trade law allows packages bound for American consumers and valued below a certain threshold to enter tariff-free. That threshold, under a category known as “de minimis,” stands at $800 per person, per day. The majority of the imports are retail products purchased online.
‘It’s the industry’s dirty secret’: why fashion’s oversupply problem is an environmental disaster
Sustainable Luxury: How Eco-Friendly Fashion is Transforming the Industry
In fashion, luxury has long been synonymous with exclusivity, high-quality materials, and meticulous craftsmanship. However, a new dimension is increasingly becoming part of this definition: sustainability. As awareness around environmental issues grows, consumers seek brands offering premium products while prioritizing eco-friendly practices.
Report: European Trade Group Urges Delay in Deforestation-Free Law
A trade organization in the European coffee industry has asked the European Commission to delay the implementation of the new EU deforestation-free supply chain law, known as EUDR. The European Coffee Federation (ECF) warned that the current Dec. 30 deadline for large European companies to comply would be "devastating" for smallholder producers who rely on the EU as a significant marketplace.
Why The North Face is changing where it gets its rubber and cotton
With its latest cotton and rubber sourcing efforts, the retailer is pursuing regenerative materials.
This Plant Is The Strongest Fiber In The World & The Fabric OF The Future
The Abacá banana plant – also referred to as Musa Textilis – is native to the Philippines and considered to be the strongest natural fiber on the planet.
Zalando to end green claims after EU probe
BERLIN – German online fashion retailer Zalando will remove misleading green claims from its website after discussions with the European Commission and national consumer authorities. “Such claims can mislead consumers about the environmental characteristics of the products,” said a statement from the European Commission.
Read More (Under Paywall)
Brands I like, not an ad.
Temu promises cheap goods. Here's how the shopping app does it
Temu's approach feels similar to cancer. Cheap products are designed to end up in landfills and only benefit the corporate bottom line temporarily while harming nearly everyone else in their wake.
Brands I like, not an ad.
Chinese fashion companies join Canopy’s sustainable fashion initiatives
Canopy has announced that three Chinese fashion companies, representing eight brands, have recently joined its CanopyStyle and Pack4Good initiatives. These programs aim to eliminate the sourcing of materials from forests crucial for climate and biodiversity conservation in their viscose and paper packaging supply chains. Canopy, an international non-profit organisation, focuses on safeguarding forests, species, and the climate by leveraging the purchasing power of the global market.
European Union: Sustainable Fashion Tech And Innovative Processes
With the industry responsible for producing 92 million tonnes of textile waste every year and contributing to nearly 10% of global carbon emissions1, it is no surprise that the EU has introduced proposals requiring fashion brands to take responsibility for the production process.
The Plastic Diet: Has Plastic Pollution Reached its Tipping Point?
Plastic is everywhere, from our food to our everyday products. We need to reduce our plastic consumption to minimize its impact on our health. In this article, we provide tips on sustainable choices.
Brands I like, not an ad.
Navigating the rising threat of greenwashing enforcement
Greenwashing is the practice of conveying a false impression or providing misleading information about how environmentally friendly a product is.
FROM THE FARM TO YOUR ARM WITH 1 ATELIER
1 Atelier is an ethical luxury brand that creates custom accessories to empower the wearer and promote sustainability. Recently, they unveiled their Farm to Arm collection, the first-ever luxury range designed to be net-zero carbon, biodegradable, and waste-free. This collection uses regenerative farming techniques and made-to-order processes to produce durable pieces that can stand the test of time.
Consumers say their environmental concerns are increasing due to extreme weather; study shows they’re willing to change behavior, pay 12% more for sustainable products
Bain & Company finds more than 60% of businesses are off track to meet their sustainability goals, an increasingly conscious base of consumers and employees may be able to help
France Introduces Possible Jail Time As Penalty For Non-Compliance With Sustainability Disclosure
Corporate sustainability reporting is about to get real. Starting January 1, 2024, the European Union’s (EU) Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) will officially take effect, requiring in scope companies to disclose information on what they see as the risks and opportunities arising from social and environmental issues, and also on the impact of their activities on people and the environment.
Tod's CEO says he has no plans to sell 'family business'
The founder of Italian luxury shoemaker Tod's (TOD.MI), opens new tab said on Friday he had no plans to sell the company after taking it private via a deal with private equity firm L Catterton.
The Auditors Are Coming To Corporate Sustainability Reporting
Starting in 2025, companies under the EU's Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive will have to disclose risks, opportunities, and impact. Third-party verification required.
Students give perspective on clothing, spirituality
As students actively use the way they dress to show their spirituality, their stories bring to life the exploration of faith that takes place at Oregon State University.
Vera
I really hope you're enjoying The Sustainability Pulse, my weekly newsletter looking at sustainability in the fashion industry. If you find the tips and insights useful, please share these articles to help spread the word.