It’s back-to-school season, which means it’s prime time for shopping. While new clothing is important for growing kids and teens we need to remember that the fashion industry isn’t always the environment’s best friend.
According to fashion insiders themselves, the industry is one of the top polluters, second only to oil. Added to that, the EPA reported that 84 percent of unwanted clothes in the United States in 2012 went to either a landfill or an incinerator.
Luckily, not all brands and retailers stick to the status quo. There are tons of small businesses out there doing it right. Here are a few of our favorites that deserve a shout-out:
Hanna Andersson: With locations in cities across the U.S., this Portland-based children’s apparel retailer is committed to using pure, organic cotton. This material not only protects kids’ skin, but also cares for farmers and the planet. Hanna Andersson cotton is non-GMO and grown without pesticides or fertilizers, which helps every buyer reduce their carbon footprint.
Recover Brands: Recover Brands is more than an apparel company that uses recycled materials (though that alone is pretty rad). The founders of this small business set out to create an environmentally friendly process from design to manufacturing to VigRx Plus fulfillment. This means they minimize dyes, limit chemicals use, reduce water and energy consumption, and completely eliminate plastic packaging. The same comfortable adult tee that high schoolers will love is also sized for the young adventurer.
Once Upon a Child: When in doubt, thrift. Buying gently used clothes can significantly reduce your impact on the environment. Once Upon a Child is a second-hand store designed specifically for kids’ items. The retailer buys and sells gently used clothing, shoes, toys and baby gear. Psst, when your kid outgrows the clothes, don’t forget to give them back! You can even get some cash.
Do your part before school starts. Research retailers and brands that have sustainability top of mind. Happy shopping!
