Whether a fiber is better or worse depends on the numerous factors influencing the life cycle of fabric – from the cultivation of the crop through to processing, assembly, transportation, use, and the subsequent disposal of the garment by the consumer. However, sustainable material sourcing is no easy task. Verifying and auditing material credentials from suppliers and even third-party certification agencies is a crucial step to avoid unintentional greenwashing.Global Life Cycle data shows that fashion’s most significant emissions (on the production side) happen at the material level, so for many brands, the easiest first step on their sustainability journey is to begin by replacing existing materials with sustainable alternatives. When thinking through end-of-life solutions, trims (threads, buttons, zippers) need to be considered in addition to material choice because these various components impact a garment's ability to be recycled or biodegrade. It’s essential for companies and brands to determine their “North Star” which will help them establish what material sustainability means to them. “Sustainability” is a nuanced and layered term that means everything and nothing at the same time. While there are materials that are “worse” and materials that are “better,” in general, material sustainability is relative to what problems you’re trying to address.
Manager, Product Sustainability at GAP Inc, Adam Taubenfligel, Creative Director at Triarchy Denim, and Tara St James, Founder of Re:Source(d) and Vice President of Supply Chain and Sustainability at Another Tomorrow, discuss the nuanced layers of material sustainability with Jasmin Malik Chua, Sourcing Journal Sourcing and Labor Editor. Amanda Parkes, Chief Innovation Officer at PANGAIA, Diana Rosenberg, Sr.
In this week’s episode of Crash Course Fashion, Dr.
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