New innovations in sustainable fashion design

Sustainability has become a buzzword in the fashion industry in recent years. As consumers become more aware of the impact their fashion choices have on the environment and society, there has been a growing demand for sustainable fashion. In response, many fashion brands and retailers have started to offer sustainable options, but how can you be sure that what you are buying is truly sustainable? This is where sustainable fashion certifications come in. In this article, we will take a closer look at what these certifications mean and how they can help you make more informed and sustainable fashion choices.

When it comes to sustainable fashion certifications, there are several global organizations that offer certifications that assess various aspects of sustainability in fashion. Let's take a closer look at some of them:

1. Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

   GOTS is a certification that focuses on ensuring the organic status of textiles, from the harvesting of the raw materials to socially responsible manufacturing. To receive this certification, a product must contain at least 95% organic fiber and comply with strict environmental and social criteria.

2. OEKO-TEX Standard 100

   OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is a certification that tests for harmful substances and chemicals in textiles. This certification ensures that a product has been tested and found to be free of harmful substances and is therefore safe for human use.

3. Bluesign

   Bluesign is a certification that assesses the sustainability of the entire manufacturing process, from raw materials to the finished product. This certification focuses on reducing resource consumption, reducing emissions, and ensuring the health and safety of workers.

These global certifications are useful for identifying sustainable fashion brands and products, but it's important to note that they do not cover all aspects of sustainability. They do not, for example, assess the environmental and social impact of a brand's supply chain beyond its own manufacturing process. This is where additional certifications and ratings come in.

There are several additional certifications and ratings that assess sustainability in specific areas of the fashion industry. Here are some examples:

1. B Corp Certification

   B Corp Certification is a certification that assesses a company's overall social and environmental performance, including supply chain and community impact. B Corps are businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental responsibility, and the certification lends credibility to a brand's claims of sustainability.

2. Cradle to Cradle Certification

   Cradle to Cradle Certification is a certification that assesses a product's sustainability throughout its entire lifecycle, from raw materials to end-of-life disposal. This certification evaluates a product's impact on human health, the environment, and social responsibility and gives it a rating from basic to platinum.

3. Higg Index

   Higg Index is a sustainability rating system developed by the Sustainable Apparel Coalition. It assesses a brand's sustainability across its entire supply chain, including environmental and social impact. The Higg Index provides a score that helps brands identify areas of improvement and track their progress towards sustainability.

These additional certifications and ratings can provide more specific information about a brand's sustainability practices and impact on the environment and society. However, they are not as widely recognized as the global certifications and may not be as familiar to consumers.

With so many certifications and ratings to consider, choosing sustainable fashion can be overwhelming. Here are some tips to help you make more informed and sustainable fashion choices:

1. Do your research

   Take some time to research the brands and products you are interested in. Look for trustworthy sources of information and read reviews from other consumers.

2. Look for certifications

   Check for global certifications like GOTS or OEKO-TEX Standard 100, as well as additional certifications and ratings like B Corp or Cradle to Cradle Certification. Be sure to do your research on what each certification means and what it assesses.

3. Consider the entire supply chain

   Remember that a product's sustainability goes beyond its own manufacturing process. Look for brands that are transparent about their supply chain and are taking steps to reduce their environmental and social impact throughout the entire lifecycle of their products.

4. Support sustainable fashion brands

   When you find a brand or product that meets your sustainability standards, support them by making a purchase. By voting with your wallet, you are sending a message to the fashion industry that sustainability is important to you.

By following these tips, you can make more informed and sustainable fashion choices that align with your values and support a more sustainable future for the fashion industry.