What are the biggest levers to make shoes more sustainable? As part of last year's Swiss Sustainability Challenge, we had the privilege to conduct a Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) in collaboration with University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland FHNW, using SimaPro. This allowed us to analyze crucial aspects of our product and value chain sustainability. Overall, we are pleased that many of our assumptions were confirmed through the LCA. However, there were a few surprises and valuable insights. Here are three key points that stood out: 🧵Material choice is key : One of the most significant factors affecting the LCA score is the production scale of materials. Interestingly, some vegan leather alternatives showed worse scores than animal leather, primarily due to their small-scale production, resulting in higher energy consumption per unit. Nevertheless, these innovative materials will play a pivotal role in making the shoe industry more sustainable. Once scaled, the critical factor will be their chemical composition. ⚡Know your electricity mix: If 3D printing is used in production, energy consumption can be quite high. The key determinant of emissions is the electricity mix used to power the printer. In proactive terms, this is a call for companies like ours to invest in renewable energy for their operations. ♻️Circular design and recyclability are worth it: Our study shows the potential as well as the uncertainties in the circular economy. One of the best results is achieved in the scenario where 50% of the shoe soles are sent back for recycling and used as input for new soles. The reduction in emissions by using recycled material outweighs the additional emissions caused by transport. To reduce the ecological footprint of the footwear industry, considering recyclability (e.g. the separability of materials after use) and advancements in polymer recycling is crucial. While we are very pleased with the results of the study, this example also showed how strongly LCA results can depend on assumptions, which are especially difficult to make for startups like ours. We don't have sufficient operational data yet about our own operations or customer responses, and we would like to work with new materials from other startups that also do not have long-term data to rely on. This makes it all the more important to regularly reflect critically on sustainability in startup business models. Many thanks again to Manu Singh, who performed this insightful practical LCA as his bachelor’s thesis, and to FHNW for sponsoring this project. A big thanks also goes to our strategic partner Faircustomer.ch and Tania Schellenberg, who supported us in analyzing and interpreting the study. We stay committed to making the footwear industry more sustainable and will share more detailed insights into our first LCA analysis soon. What are your experiences with LCAs? Victor Misev Fabian Whitfield Claus-Heinrich Daub Ananda Wyss
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Sustainable shirt manufacturing practices aim to minimize environmental impact, promote social responsibility, and ensure economic viability. *Environmental Sustainability:* 1. Eco-friendly materials: Organic cotton, recycled polyester, Tencel, and hemp. 2. Water conservation: Efficient dyeing and finishing processes. 3. Energy efficiency: Solar power, LED lighting, and optimized machinery. 4. Waste reduction: Zero-waste design, fabric scraps recycling. 5. Supply chain transparency: Traceable materials and production processes. *Social Responsibility:* 1. Fair labor practices: Living wages, safe working conditions. 2. Ethical sourcing: Certified suppliers, audited factories. 3. Diversity and inclusion: Equal opportunities, training programs. 4. Community engagement: Local partnerships, charitable initiatives. *Economic Viability:* 1. Cost-effective sustainable materials. 2. Energy-efficient equipment and processes. 3. Reduced waste and scrap materials. 4. Increased productivity through lean manufacturing. 5. Premium pricing for sustainable products. *Innovative Sustainable Technologies:* 1. Digital printing: Reduces water and energy consumption. 2. 3D design: Minimizes fabric waste and optimizes fit. 3. Biodegradable materials: Plant-based fabrics. 4. Carbon offsetting: Compensates for emissions. 5. Circular business models: Product take-back and recycling. *Certifications and Standards:* 1. GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) 2. Oeko-Tex 3. Bluesign 4. Fair Trade Certified 5. Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC) *Best Practices:* 1. Conduct environmental and social impact assessments. 2. Set sustainability goals and track progress. 3. Collaborate with suppliers and stakeholders. 4. Invest in employee training and education. 5. Transparency in reporting and communication. *Challenges and Opportunities:* 1. Higher costs for sustainable materials and practices. 2. Balancing sustainability with consumer demand for affordability. 3. Scaling sustainable production while maintaining quality. 4. Educating consumers about sustainable fashion. 5. Encouraging industry-wide adoption of sustainable practices. *Notable Sustainable Shirt Manufacturers:* 1. Patagonia 2. Reformation 3. Everlane 4. H&M Conscious 5. People Tree Arvind Ltd *Resources:* 1. Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC) 2. Textile Exchange 3. World Wildlife Fund (WWF) 4. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 5. International Labour Organization (ILO)
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OXMAN has unveiled the O° Shoe—a completely biodegradable shoe that sets a new benchmark in sustainable fashion. Here's what makes it revolutionary: 🌍 Material Matters: Crafted entirely from Polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), a biodegradable material derived from natural resources like CO₂, methane, or food waste. These shoes break down naturally in ambient conditions, leaving no harmful microplastics behind. 💡 Innovative Manufacturing: The O° platform integrates robotics, materials science, and digital tech to create bio-based products with near-zero waste. The design includes PHA-based knitted uppers and 3D-printed outer layers, skipping traditional processes like cutting and sewing. 🎨 Eco-Friendly Pigments: Unlike petrochemical-based dyes, O° uses bioengineered, natural pigments for colouring. Neri Oxman, founder of OXMAN, emphasizes that this is more than a shoe—it's a step towards nourishing the environment at the end of a product's lifecycle. 🌿 The O° Shoe showcases how sustainability and high-performance design can go hand in hand. Are we ready to embrace such eco-innovations in our daily lives? Let's discuss! Read more here:
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How can technology innovation drive advancements in sustainable textile production? Technology innovation can significantly advance sustainable textile production through several key avenues: Materials and Processes: Eco-Friendly Fabrics: Sustainable Materials: Development of textiles from recycled fibers, organic cotton, or biodegradable materials reduces reliance on virgin resources and minimizes environmental impact. Innovative Fibers: Emerging fibers like spider silk, algae-based textiles, or lab-grown materials offer sustainable alternatives to traditional fabrics. Efficient Manufacturing Processes: Waterless Dyeing Technologies: Techniques such as supercritical CO2 dyeing and digital printing significantly reduce water usage and chemical waste. Closed-Loop Systems: Implementing closed-loop manufacturing systems where waste is recycled back into production helps minimize textile waste and resource consumption. Energy and Resource Efficiency: Energy-Efficient Machinery: Advanced Machinery: Innovations in textile machinery that consume less energy and operate more efficiently help reduce the carbon footprint of production processes. Resource Optimization: Smart Fabrication Techniques: Techniques like 3D knitting and seamless garment manufacturing minimize material waste by optimizing fabric use and reducing the need for cutting and sewing. Circular Economy: Recycling and Upcycling: Textile Recycling Technologies: Advancements in mechanical and chemical recycling processes enable the transformation of old textiles into new fibers, supporting a circular economy. Design for Disassembly: Innovations in garment design that facilitate easy disassembly and recycling at the end of life improve the sustainability of textile products. Extended Product Lifespan: Durability Enhancements: Development of textiles with enhanced durability and repairability extends the lifespan of garments, reducing the frequency of disposal and replacement. Digital and Smart Technologies: AI and Data Analytics: Supply Chain Optimization: AI-driven analytics help optimize supply chains, reduce waste, and enhance the efficiency of resource management in textile production. Demand Forecasting: Predictive analytics improve inventory management and reduce overproduction, minimizing excess stock and waste. Blockchain and Transparency: Supply Chain Transparency: Blockchain technology provides transparency in the supply chain, ensuring that sustainable practices are adhered to and helping consumers make informed choices. Smart Textiles: Functional Fabrics: Development of smart textiles with built-in sensors or responsive materials offers functionalities like temperature regulation and self-cleaning, enhancing the lifecycle and utility of garments. By leveraging these technological innovations, the textile industry can make strides toward more sustainable production practices, reducing environmental impact, and fostering a circular economy.
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The concept of sustainability has gained immense importance in recent years, especially in response to the global concerns surrounding carbon emissions and their impact on climate change. Conventional clothing production, known for its heavy reliance on water, energy, and chemical use, contributes significantly to environmental degradation. This has driven a shift towards more sustainable practices within the apparel industry, with consumers and stakeholders demanding environmentally conscious alternatives. Recycling and sustainable procedures in apparel manufacturing, such as the use of eco-friendly materials, water conservation techniques, and energy-efficient production methods, are becoming the norm. Entrepreneurs in the fashion and apparel industry are increasingly aligning with this shift by integrating sustainable design, recycling initiatives, and reducing waste across the supply chain. These practices not only help in minimizing the environmental footprint but also cater to the rising demand from eco-conscious consumers. Entrepreneurs should therefore prioritize compliance with sustainability standards in the formation of their business models. This could involve adopting closed-loop production systems, incorporating recycled fabrics, or using low-impact dyes, as well as exploring innovations like biodegradable textiles. Moreover, by embracing circular economy principles, which focus on reusing and recycling products to extend their lifecycle, businesses can reduce dependency on raw materials and contribute to reducing overall carbon emissions. In summary, by embracing sustainable practices and staying ahead of regulatory requirements, entrepreneurs in the apparel industry not only address the environmental challenges but also enhance their brand reputation, gain customer loyalty, and stay competitive in the growing market for sustainable fashion.
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𝗦𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗮𝗯𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗧𝗲𝘅𝘁𝗶𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗹 The global textile industry has long been scrutinized for its enormous environmental impact. As the world continues to prioritize sustainability, the textile industry is experiencing significant transformation to meet eco-friendly standards and government regulations. Keypoint Intelligence probes into what sustainability means for textile and apparel companies, the metrics and certifications that define it, the current state of sustainability in these industries, and how digital printing is paving the way for a more sustainable future.
Sustainability in Textiles and Apparel
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Sustainable labels In an effort to promote more eco-friendly practices in the fashion industry, 2B Labels has launched a new line of sustainable labels designed specifically for clothing and footwear. These innovative labels not only meet the brand's high-quality standards but also reflect a strong commitment to the environment. Commitment to Sustainability The new labels are made with recycled and biodegradable materials, including: Recycled PVC: Made from recovered and reprocessed plastic waste to reduce environmental impact. Recycled Polyester: Made from recycled plastic bottles, reducing the need for virgin resources and minimizing environmental impact. Recycled TPU: Manufactured from industrial waste, offering a more eco-friendly and sustainable solution. Organic Cotton: Grown without the use of pesticides or chemical fertilizers, ideal for sustainable production. Cork: A natural and renewable material that does not harm the tree during the harvesting process, offering an eco-friendly and durable option. This initiative is part of 2B Labels' ongoing commitment to promoting more eco-friendly and sustainable practices in all our operations. Innovation in Design and Functionality In addition to being sustainable, these labels are designed to seamlessly integrate with the logo and aesthetics of the brands that use them. The advanced printing technology ensures that each label maintains its quality and durability, even under demanding conditions. Benefits for the Fashion Industry 2B Labels sustainable labels offer multiple benefits for clothing and footwear manufacturers: Reduction of Environmental Impact: By using recycled and biodegradable materials, the carbon footprint of the products is significantly reduced. Brand Image: Adopting sustainable labels improves the reputation of brands, showcasing them as responsible and committed to protecting the environment. Quality and Durability: The labels maintain their appearance and functionality throughout the product's lifespan, ensuring that the manufacturer's information remains legible and visible.
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By 2030, we could be throwing away over 130 million tonnes of textile waste annually. To give you an idea of how much it is, it’s equivalent to the weight of 356 Empire State Buildings, or 2,871 Eiffel Towers🤯 Any idea how quickly we’re going to run out of space on this planet? In other words, the fashion industry has a massive impact on sustainability, and if we don’t change something, we’ll be in big trouble very soon. 📊 Right now, the fashion industry is responsible for: 🌎 10% of global carbon emissions (UN Environment Programme, The World Bank) 💧20% of global wastewater 🗑️ 92 million tonnes of textile waste generated annually (Ellen MacArthur Foundation, Global Fashion Agenda), which could reach 134 million tonnes by 2030 (Boston Consulting Group (BCG) 👗 100 billion new garments are produced annually (Business Waste LTD) We may not be able to tackle all these problems at once. But with the help of AI, we can make a difference👇 1️⃣ Waste Reduction: There are many ways how AI can help optimise production. The least we can do is start substituting physical samples with realistic AI renders (and hopefully we’re doing a bit of our part here!). Sometimes brands (especially the big ones) request up to 20 physical samples of garments for EACH item before they go into production. Imagine how much waste we’ll cut just on that. Other than that, AI software now allows predicting trends and demand, which helps the industry tackle overproduction – which is another massive contributor to our landfills. 2️⃣ Supply Chain Optimization: Other than pure material waste, the fashion industry has a huge problem with complex logistics. Sometime producing just one sample would involve multiple air journeys: the fabric comes from one place, the rest of the material comes from another, and then the sample itself is flown to the brand’s headquarters. We now have AI algorithms that can analyze and suggest improvements to these atrocious supply chains,reducing the industry's overall carbon footprint. 3️⃣Sustainable Design: AI is assisting in creating more sustainable designs and optimizing the use of recycled materials. Moreover, it is also contributing to the development of more eco-friendly fabrics, potentially reducing resource usage in textile production. While specific figures on AI's impact are still emerging, the potential for transformation is clear. A study by Roland Berger suggests that AI technology could save the world up to a third of the resources used in producing food and fashion, potentially between US$120-300 billion per year. Living on a clean planet? Priceless. Share to raise awareness about why we really need more fashion AI. #AIinFashion #SustainableFashion #FashionTech #ArtificialIntelligence
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The concept of sustainability has gained immense importance in recent years, especially in response to the global concerns surrounding carbon emissions and their impact on climate change. Conventional clothing production, known for its heavy reliance on water, energy, and chemical use, contributes significantly to environmental degradation. This has driven a shift towards more sustainable practices within the apparel industry, with consumers and stakeholders demanding environmentally conscious alternatives. Recycling and sustainable procedures in apparel manufacturing, such as the use of eco-friendly materials, water conservation techniques, and energy-efficient production methods, are becoming the norm. Entrepreneurs in the fashion and apparel industry are increasingly aligning with this shift by integrating sustainable design, recycling initiatives, and reducing waste across the supply chain. These practices not only help in minimizing the environmental footprint but also cater to the rising demand from eco-conscious consumers. Entrepreneurs should therefore prioritize compliance with sustainability standards in the formation of their business models. This could involve adopting closed-loop production systems, incorporating recycled fabrics, or using low-impact dyes, as well as exploring innovations like biodegradable textiles. Moreover, by embracing circular economy principles, which focus on reusing and recycling products to extend their lifecycle, businesses can reduce dependency on raw materials and contribute to reducing overall carbon emissions. In summary, by embracing sustainable practices and staying ahead of regulatory requirements, entrepreneurs in the apparel industry not only address the environmental challenges but also enhance their brand reputation, gain customer loyalty, and stay competitive in the growing market for sustainable fashion.
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👕 Innovation that circular textiles concretizes!🧵 The new Wear2® Ecostitching Technology does deliver on the promise of closed-loop circular textiles. This is based on a super smart sewing thread that loses its strength based on electromagnetic energy, after which clothing is safely, quickly, and inexpensively disassembled. Only then can the various separated textile types - and other attached accessories - be reused within a closed-loop clothing industry. Especially when clothing design takes into account appropriate material usage. Despite all the knowledge accumulated, there are still many textile types that simply cannot be processed circularly. In some cases, downcycling is still possible, but usually, it comes down to incineration. Both are undesirable and can be avoided with the new Wear2® innovation. 🔄 ♻️ https://lnkd.in/eq9zBJav ♻️
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6moFascinating and honest review of sustainable sustainability aspirations URBNC3! Kudos for the courage to stand in front of the mirror. I’m curious about the dynamic of increasing the transport emissions reductions and the decarbonizing / electrifying the logistics. Is there a meaningful correlation with increasing the rate of recycled materials beyond 50%? Did the LCA look at that dynamic? What’s the tipping point and what are the barrriers to reach it?