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Pursuing Sustainability

Gradient Ocean

Jeff Wolfanger

Nov 28, 2023

Taiwan

Categories:

Sustainability, Clothing, Recycle

Pursuing sustainability, Taiwanese startups are seeking new uses for throw-away materials, such as oyster shells and coffee grounds, in fabric production and the designing of eco-friendly clothing. An article in the English language Taiwan News entitled “Taiwanese Startups Developing Eco-friendly Clothes” by Wendy Wu, published August 26, 2021, lays out the critically important topic of fashion waste, which, according to the article, constitutes the second-largest source of pollution after the petrochemical industry.


The article “The World Economy Forum reported that fashion production makes up 10% of carbon emissions and 85% of all textiles, sending more than 90 million tons of discarded clothes to the dump each year.”


To reduce its carbon footprint, one company (FYNI) recycles its lines into fresh new garments. Another DYCTEAM incorporates oyster shells into their clothing, which serves to regulate body temperature, prevent bacterial growth, and eliminate body odors. PLANEDO uses materials such as discarded fishing gear and coffee grounds in their garments, which create elasticity and durability in their products.


Since 90 million tons of clothing and fabric end up in landfills yearly, what are you doing to reuse, recycle, and reduce fabric waste? Sure, we all take our outdated but perfectly good clothing, bedding, etc., to Goodwill or St. Vincent de Paul, and that act of tax-deductible ‘giving’ makes us feel good about ourselves, but is that enough? But did you know your clothing donations could still be in a landfill?


Or could we be doing more, even if that only means seeking manufacturers focusing on a more eco-friendly and sustainable fashion industry? You may be surprised to learn that there are eco-friendly clothing brands available in many countries worldwide. Some examples include Boden and People Tree (England), Pact and Vetta (US), Organic Basic (Denmark), and Tentree (Canada), among many others. Check out what is available in your local community, or consider ordering online.


And here is something you may not have considered for your community: clothing recycling, reuse, and repurposing. There are interesting options. One resource to check out is One Community: https://www.onecommunityglobal.org. Aluminum, glass, plastic, paper, and now, clothes. It benefits the planet and your local community.


Finally, local organizations, clubs, and civic groups that conduct fundraisers for charity events often have fashion shows. This may be an excellent opportunity to showcase products made from sustainable and recycled resources. Making it chic to wear sustainable clothing can be a very impactful message.


What will you wear today?


Originally published October 26, 2021.

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