GreenWith Studio

Drumroll…>> SO PROUD: GreenWith Studios have co-authored a white paper with British Fashion Council and Vanish: “Empowering Citizens for Garment Longevity”, investigating Phase 2 of the BFC’s Circular Fashion Ecosystem. We started with the astounding fact that approximately ONE-THIRD of a garment's total environmental impact occurs in the post-transaction/consumer use phase and explored a hypothesis of how technology can empower consumers to unite around bringing down fashion’s appalling waste problem. This white paper: ♻️ investigates why this is the case and provides a comprehensive review of innovative solutions to bring down this impact for all stakeholders in the fashion value chain. A huge thank you to everyone involved in commissioning, supporting, researching, producing and releasing it. Find the white paper here: https://lnkd.in/emayCTgk Patricia O'Hayer, Fabrice Beaulieu, Reckitt, Caroline Rush, Shailja Dubé, Dr. Naomi Bailey-Cooper FRSA, Lucy Cooper, Amie Martin Consulting, Ella Dewberry, Isabel Froemming, Charlotte Astle, Lee-Jon Ball, Paola Arbelaez, Bárbara Yuste Zambrano, Kate Catchpole, Clara Mercer, Davina Wedderburn - Thompson, Pooja Lucie Willmann, Jennifer Parratt Lewis #sustainability #fashion #circularity #BFC #change

TOMORROW IS THE UK GENERAL ELECTION... The UK is on the cusp of what’s expected to be a pivotal general election — not just for the country, but for the fashion industry, too. And knowing who to vote for can be extremely overwhelming, but don’t fear if you are still undecided on who to vote for we have put together some quick fire flashcards, breaking down what five key parties (Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat, Green and Reform UK) have to say on some of the most important topics (business and retail, sustainability, technology and the environment for creatives) concerning the fashion industry. It’s important to note that no party mentions fashion by name in its manifesto, but much of what’s in the manifestos is likely to affect the industry. DON’T MISS OUT ON THE CHANCE TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE FOR FASHION’S FUTURE...VOTE TOMORROW!

Wow...some truly insightful headlines from the sustainable fashion space. Keep on top with our latest Sustainability Lowdown 💡

Our new Sustainability Lowdown to get your mind going this Monday morning 🙌🏼

Blue Earth is the platform that brings individuals together based on a shared set of values, aiming to improve our world collectively. And the inaugural Blue Earth Summit is the leading event on a mission to put business at the centre of a more sustainable future for people and planet. It is a huge honour to announce that our Founder MARY FELLOWES is moderating the Blue Earth Summit Fashion and Materials’ panel in London, alongside Courtney Sawatzke, Helen White, and Simon Hill-Norton. A full list of speakers can be found at this link: https://lnkd.in/ePP8aeGp To ensure you don’t miss out on the action use BLUEEARTH25 at checkout to get 25% discount on your ticket! https://lnkd.in/eF4MUaSR #BlueEarthSummit

Happy #WorldEnvironmentDay. World Enviornment Day is the United Nations for encouraging worldwide awareness and action to protect our environment. This year the UN are focused on the theme of ‘Land Restoration, Desertification and Drought Resilience’. The fashion industry plays a significant role in the excessive withdrawal of water for textile production, contributing to water scarcity and environmental degradation. At GreenWith, we believe in making a difference for our planet by promoting sustainable fashion practices, we believe fashion brands must make a commitment to using eco-friendly materials, reducing water usage, and supporting initiatives that restore and protect our natural ecosystems. Join us in our mission to create a more sustainable future. Together, we can make a positive impact on our environment. 🌍💚 #SustainableFashion #EcoFriendly #GreenWith #ProtectOurPlanet

High Levels of Toxic PFAS Detected in Dhaka's Water Near Textile Industries: New Study Highlights Urgent Need for Regulatory Action. ~ ~ ~ Alarming research published by, Dr Shahriar Hossain, senior policy and technical advisor for ESDO, Mgr. Jitka Strakova, Siddika Sultana, Shanon Iffat Alam, Tanjima Haque Trisha, Golam Rabbani, Dr. Sara Brosche, Riley Howard, DSc, MPH, Dr. Joseph DiGangi, has revealed that the textiles industry accounts for 50% of the total global use of PFAS. ~ ~ ~ GreenWith have rounded up the study’s key findings for easy yet mind blowing reading… 💬 PFAS, called “Forever Chemicals” due to their environmental persistence, are a threat to human health, with links to negative impacts on fertility, fetal development, and thyroid hormone function. Certain PFAS have been linked to weakened immunity, liver damage, and cancer. 💬 PFAS are widely used by the textiles industry, which accounts for about 50% of the total global use of PFAS and is the second largest PFAS emissions contributor. 💬 Bangladesh has a large textiles sector and an increasing number of textile factories. Residents of Bangladesh may face significant threats from PFAS pollution of their water and associated contamination of soils and food. 💬 Textile makers in Bangladesh near areas where water was found with high PFAS levels produce products for major global brands, including Benetton, C&A, Calvin Klein, H&M, Marks & Spencer, Sainsbury’s, Zara and many others. These brand-name companies have tremendous market influence and should demand PFAS-free products. Some of the companies have publicly committed to ending their sales of products with PFAS. ~ ~ ~ Safer alternatives to PFAS in textiles are available such as, Trifluoroacetic acid (TFA), so there is no need for PFAS in textiles. The textiles industry must phase out the use of PFAS, and policymakers develop comprehensive, class-based bans on the production and use of PFAS.

A Firm NO to SHEIN from France France, the epitome of style and sophistication, is taking a bold stance against the influx of low-cost, mass-produced garments, predominantly from China. Last week the French lower house of parliament took a significant step towards sustainable fashion by unanimously approving a groundbreaking "kill bill" aimed at tackling the environmental impact of fast fashion. This bill specifically targets the ultra-fast fashion giants Shein, recognising the urgent need to address the detrimental effects of their business models. By banning the advertising of certain ultra-fast-fashion companies and implementing penalties for their environmental footprint, France is setting a powerful example for the rest of the world to follow. By taking decisive action, lawmakers are sending a clear message that environmental preservation is non-negotiable. This legislation aligns with the growing understanding of the harmful consequences of fast fashion on our planet and society. Just as previous advertising bans on products like cigarettes aimed to protect public health, this bill acknowledges the addictive nature of fast fashion and its detrimental impact on consumer behaviour. While some may argue against these measures, claiming they will affect consumer purchasing power, it's essential to recognize the long-term benefits of prioritizing sustainability. As Kathleen Talbot, Chief Sustainability Officer of Reformation, rightly points out, we must hold brands accountable for their negative externalities and create incentives for more responsible practices. Moreover, this bill highlights the importance of considering the welfare of workers in the garment and textile waste management sectors, who are often disproportionately affected by the fast fashion industry's practices. It's crucial that funds collected through penalties are directed towards supporting these frontline communities and addressing environmental injustices. By setting these standards, France is leading by example, demonstrating a firm commitment to sustainability and accountability in fashion. As we work towards a more eco-conscious future, it would be interesting to see which countries will follow in France’s footsteps…who do you think will pick up arms against SHEIN next?

We are incredibly proud to announce our Founder, MARY FELLOWES, appointment as Advisory Board lead to Give Your Best. This award-winning social enterprise has been supported by Mary since the start and she’s hugely excited to be able to marry her fashion and sustainability expertise, with their quest to alleviate clothing poverty and empower marginalised women. Give Your Best offers the first circular platform of its kind where people and brands donate clothes online, so refugee women and children can shop for free, with the agency and dignity they deserve. They turn donating into gifting...empowering through choice. ~ Uplifting the most marginalised women and children in society goes hand in hand with sustainability.  Women are crucial contributors, implementers and beneficiaries of sustainable development. To mainstream the involvement of women and children in sustainable development demands a change in attitudes and behaviour towards women and girls across all levels...and this is where Give Your Best is paving the way. For women and children to be agents of change their input must be considered important; they should not only be thought of as ‘beneficiaries’ or ‘vulnerable’, they must be considered as equal partners and valuable contributors to sustainable development.  Clothing can be a suit of armour, once women and children are given this armour they can be the best version of themselves. They can increase community capacity at the grassroots level, by leading effective community-based sustainable development actions that contribute to the achievement of a more sustainable society...all through Give Your Best. ~ Finally a huge thank you cannot go unsaid to Sol Escobar for believing in this collaboration. She is the brains behind Give Your Best and a true inspiration to us all at GreenWith Studio!

Fur is making a comeback, and it's posing environmental challenges. Over the past decade, major fashion players like Gucci and Chanel, along with retailers such as Nordstrom, enforced bans on fur due to rising concerns about animal welfare. However, the Autumn/Winter 2024 runways witnessed a bold resurgence of fur, reigniting discussions on ethics and environmental impact. From TikTok trends to high-fashion showcases, the revival of fur, both real and faux, has sparked a renewed debate; all hail the mob wife aesthetic, which has roared through social media prompting the resurgence of animal print and big furs, not forgetting the red lips! While faux fur may seem like a sustainable option, it presents its own set of challenges, including plastic usage and the shedding of microplastics. Taking a global, inclusive perspective, this debate extends beyond luxury fashion markets. While regions like California have the economic privilege to ban fur, low-income communities, particularly in places like Ukraine, may lack access to sustainable alternatives. This underscores the complexity of the issue, where choices often hinge on privilege rather than necessity. Understanding the supply chain of fur products is crucial. Outside of the EU or global north, fur sourcing can involve atrocities and exploitation, adding layers to the discussion. Even faux fur, endorsed by designers like Stella McCartney, poses challenges due to its production involving petrol chemicals and disposal issues. In navigating this complexity, education and awareness are key. Consumers must consider the implications of owning fur, whether real or fake, and its contribution to perpetuating the fur myth. Opting for vintage fur or exploring sustainable alternatives becomes paramount in making informed choices. Despite efforts to repurpose existing pieces, the ongoing demand for fur presents a dilemma for the industry's sustainability goals. Despite the resurgence, many brands remain steadfast in their fur-free policies and sustainability commitments. However, the question remains: will this trend persist or fade away? As we grapple with these complexities, it's essential for the industry to prioritize ethical and sustainable practices. Let's continue this conversation in the comments section. What are your thoughts on fur? #sustainability #ethicalfashion #furdebate