A Guide to Shopping Sustainably

November 23, 2022 2 min read

A Guide to Shopping Sustainably

Cotton Harvest.  Photo by Kimberly Vardeman.

 

Many of us, would like to shop more sustainably and ethically when it comes to fashion. However, it can be overwhelming with so many brands labelling themselves as sustainable. Here, we have identified some common clothing certifications that will help navigate through the differences; where you can make more informed choices that are better for your health and the planet.


Better Cotton Initiative (BCI)

A world leading sustainability initiative that provides knowledge, support, and resources to cotton farmers so that they can survive and thrive while protecting and restoring the environment through sustainable measures. BCI supports farmers through its principles such as a living wage, decent working conditions that ensure the health and safety of workers, and gender equality.  Learn more visit Better Cotton.

 

 

Cradle to Cradle Certified (C2C)

A global certification awarded to products assessed for its circularity, safety and responsible sourcing of materials and products across its sustainability measures. These include material health, product circularity, clean air & climate protection, water & soil stewardship, and social fairness. Learn more visit Cradle to Cradle Certified.

 

 

Fairtrade International

Fairtrade works with cotton farmers to stop or reduce the use of synthetic chemicals in farming and reduce excessive water consumption that could impact the community’s fresh water supply. Fairtrade support farmers to adapt to climate change and empowers them to protect their environment as an integral part of farm management.  Learn more visit Fairtrade International.

 

 

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

GOTS is the leading global standard for organic textiles. Products with the label GOTS must contain a minimum of 70% organic fibres and adhere to the highest standards for production throughout the supply chain and comply with environmental and social standards.  Learn more visit Global Standard.

 

 

 

SCW Journal Contributor

Ginia Chu

A Sustainable Design Consultant specialising in fashion and circularity. Having worked and consulted for some of Australia’s most iconic brands such as Sportscraft, Saba, Marcs, Modibodi, Dharma Bums and Liberty London, Ginia’s wealth of experience spans across womenswear and menswear.

Her extensive knowledge of fibres and fabrics, design, construction, local and offshore production, brings value to all her clients. She is creative and technically sound and takes pride in knowledge empowerment and giving valuable advice to her clients; helping them design and implement their sustainable/circular collections.

Driven by passion for a better planet, Ginia delivers each project with purpose and care to implement and deliver optimal solutions as well as minimal environmental impact. 


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