You head into a clothing store sifting through the racks, checking each finely printed label hoping to purchase something ethical. Sometimes you can achieve this, and sometimes you can’t. Of course, having a conscious when purchasing fashion is a positive contribution to a sustainable future. However, are we considering the ramifications of our frequent disposal of these items?
As Australians, we purchase on average 27kg of new clothing per year. Out of this 27kg, we throw out a considerable 23kg. That’s 85% of newly purchased clothing each year. Concerningly, these staggering numbers are not unique to Australia. Individuals in North America buy 37kg each year, while Europeans purchase 22kg. Research has demonstrated a direct link between Australia’s growth in population, increases in consumer purchasing and hence total landfill. In a country where the amount of waste sent to landfill increased by 12% over six years, these numbers are incredibly troubling. So, what can we as a label do to help?
As a suitability-focused fashion label, we are continually striving to improve all aspects of our production. We produce each collection utilising the best sustainable practises available to us. That’s why with our latest collection we have decided to start making the switch to Tyvek labels.
Tyvek paper is a high-density spun material often used as a house wrap to protect the building during construction. Being an extremely durable fabric, our labels will remain intact and robust for the duration of their life. Tyvek, unlike regular labels, is not coated in acetate. Acetate coating on labels can be extremely problematic, especially when discarded.
When acetate labels end up in landfill, they are often burned. Burning of acetate causes an oxidisation which produces both methane and carbon dioxide, both harmful chemicals to our environment.
We are proud to offer our new recycled labels and hope that you feel pleased to be doing your part in helping support the sustainable fashion industry.
Image credit via Made well on Pinterest