Exploring the Difference: Eco-Friendly vs. Sustainable Practices
Due to climate change and other lasting effects of global warming, green practices have become an essential part of the fashion industry. In this day and age, consumers have become more conscious about shopping as a result of a surge in fast fashion manufacturers. Fast fashion refers to the rapid trend driven production of clothing sold at low prices. These inexpensive styles are also known to be low quality due to their quick production and cost-cutting procedures. Although the affordable prices are enticing, the amount of waste it takes to create a slew of trendy styles daily hurts the environment.
To counteract environmental harm and advocate a better future for the fashion industry, retailers are promoting sustainable and eco friendly practices. Many are unaware of sustainable fashion facts, like the difference between eco-friendly and sustainable retailers. Although both involve eco-consciousness, implying minimal negative impact on our ecosystem, they have subtle distinctions.
Sustainable fashion refers to a manufacturer that ensures methods that preserve the environment's future. This entails approaches that use renewable energy and a system that provides environmental and social benefits. Here at Connected Apparel, we are a perfect example of a company that creates slow fashion and sustainable fashion. What is slow fashion, you say? Slow fashion can be defined as a considerate resource and manufacturing techniques for clothing production. Companies that embody this, focus on timeless high-quality designs that take months to produce over trendy cheap pieces that are created as quickly as possible.
In Sri Lanka, our manufacturing process involves responsibly disposing of waste by selling materials like cardboard and plastics to suitable companies. We also take pride in diverting fabrics from landfills by donating textiles to local families or businesses for upcycling in Sri Lanka. Additionally, to conserve energy, our manufacturers maximize natural light during the day, as we move toward a solar energy system.Â
Eco Friendly retailers, on the other hand, may have similar manufacturing guidelines but instead, result in renewable or biodegradable goods. A biodegradable product will naturally break down and decompose over time while renewed products are made from recycled materials. Our Terra dress is created from renewable textiles, otherwise known as deadstock materials. By repurposing and giving new life to existing fabrics, we not only reduce waste but also produce each garment with a unique and eco-friendly charm. Shop Terra and learn more about her from our blog here.
Other ways to help our environment are to purchase clothing second-hand by thrifting. You can even thrift online with companies like thredUp. Our partnership, called ReConnected, is the best way to buy and sell preloved Connected Apparel. Learn more about the perks of buying ReConnected here.
In conclusion, while both sustainable and eco-friendly clothing share a common goal of fashion with minimal environmental impact, they emphasize distinct aspects of responsible fashion. Sustainable clothing focuses on preserving resources, renewable energy, and social benefits. On the other hand, eco-friendly clothing prioritizes reduced harm to the ecosystem through biodegradability and renewed materials. By understanding these differences, consumers can make informed choices that align with their values and contribute to a more conscientious and vibrant fashion industry.
