Stitch in Time Senators Respond to China's Trade Threadbare

Stitch in Time: Senators Respond to China’s Trade Threadbare

by with No Comment Newssustainability

In a unified front, a bipartisan group of US Senators is sounding the alarm on what they term as China’s ‘illegal trade practices,’ asserting that these could spell impending disaster for the American textile and apparel industry, employment rates, and the broader Western Hemisphere. Senators Thom Tillis, Sherrod Brown, Raphael Warnock, Ted Budd, J.D. Vance, Tim Scott, Lindsey Graham, and Ben Ray Luján are urging President Biden to take swift action by convening a meeting of high-ranking officials from the National Security Council, Department of the Treasury, Department of Commerce, Department of Homeland Security, and the US Trade Representative.

The primary objective of this gathering is to “identify the underlying issues, develop effective and expedient solutions, and engage directly with the US textile and apparel industry and regional allies.” The senators underscore the critical importance of the US textile and apparel sector to the economy, healthcare, and national security, highlighting that the $39 billion in yearly exports from the industry supports over 500,000 jobs.

Expressing deep concern about China’s ‘aggressive and illegal practices,’ the senators draw attention to issues such as transshipment, undervaluation of inexpensive goods, coerced labor, and circumvention of tariffs and penalties that could significantly impact US supply chains. In response, the senators propose specific actions for the Biden administration, including intensified enforcement against forced labor-subsidized textiles and apparel, ending duty-free treatment for clothing made with forced labor under de minimis, and a comprehensive review of executive authorities to hold China accountable for its ‘predatory’ trade practices.

Kim Glas, President, and CEO of the National Council of Textile Organizations (NCTO), lauded the bipartisan effort by the senators. Glas commended Senators Tillis and Brown for taking the lead in this initiative and stressed the urgent need for action to address a range of illicit trade practices that are ‘severely impacting’ the US textile and apparel industry.

The senators’ initiative comes at a crucial juncture, highlighting the growing consensus across party lines on the need to address the challenges posed by China’s trade practices. As the global economic landscape continues to evolve, the resilience and competitiveness of the American textile and apparel sector are increasingly seen as vital components of national economic security.

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Copy of New sustainability initiatives at the Coventry Building Society Arena (2)

The Magic of Bamboo: Crafting Eco-Friendly Textiles

by with No Comment Bamboosustainability

Introduction

Bamboo fabric, commonly referred to as “bamboo textile” or “bamboo rayon,” is quickly gaining acceptance in the market for eco-friendly textiles. It is well known for being comfortable, soft, and environmentally friendly. In this blog, we’ll explore the delights of bamboo fabric, including how it’s made, its special qualities, and how and where to find this amazing fabric.

Understanding Bamboo Fabric Production

Subheading 1: The Bamboo Plant

Bamboo fabric begins its journey with the bamboo plant itself. Because bamboo grows quickly and doesn’t need fertilizer or pesticides, it is a great environmentally beneficial resource. It is a sustainable material manufacturing option due to its quick development and minimal water needs.

Subheading 2: Bamboo Processing

To turn bamboo into fabric, it undergoes a process that can be broken down into several key steps:

Bamboo Fabric Production Process

StepDescription
HarvestingMature bamboo is cut and harvested.
PulpingBamboo is crushed to extract fibers.
SpinningBamboo fibers are spun into yarn.
Weaving/KnittingYarn is used to create fabric.

This chart provides an overview of the journey from bamboo plant to fabric.

Characteristics of Bamboo Fabric

Softness and Comfort

Bamboo fabric is incredibly soft to the touch, often compared to silk or cashmere. It’s an excellent choice for clothing, bedding, and other textiles where comfort is a priority.

Moisture-Wicking

Bamboo fabric’s ability to drain away moisture is one of its most notable features. It efficiently absorbs moisture from your skin to keep you dry and cozy all day.

Breathability and Temperature Regulation

Bamboo fabric is very breathable, enabling free airflow. It is suitable for both hot and cold situations thanks to its natural permeability, which helps control your body temperature.

Antibacterial and Hypoallergenic

Bamboo Kun, a naturally occurring antibacterial substance found in bamboo cloth, stops the growth of bacteria. This characteristic makes it the best option for sensitive skin, along with its hypoallergenic qualities.

Sourcing Bamboo Fabric

Retail Stores

Bamboo fabric products are increasingly available in retail stores, both online and in physical locations. Many clothing brands now offer bamboo-based clothing and bedding options.

Online Marketplaces

E-commerce platforms like Amazon, Etsy, and sustainable fashion websites often feature a wide range of bamboo fabric products. You can browse and compare different options, read reviews, and make informed choices.

Specialty Eco-Friendly Retailers

Specialty stores that focus on sustainable and eco-friendly products often carry a selection of bamboo fabric items. These stores prioritize ethical sourcing and environmentally friendly materials.

Local Artisans and Crafters

Support local artisans and crafters who create handmade bamboo fabric products. These unique and often custom-made items can be found at local markets, fairs, or online marketplaces like Etsy.

Fabric Composition

Bamboo fabric is primarily composed of bamboo cellulose fibers. However, the exact composition may vary depending on the manufacturing process and any additional blending with other materials like cotton or spandex for specific purposes.

How is the bamboo fabric used?

Bamboo fabric has a wide range of uses, including eco-friendly diapers and feminine hygiene products as well as apparel, bedding, towels, bathrobes, and socks. It is a popular option for textiles with a comfort-focused design because of its softness, breathability, and moisture-wicking qualities.

Bamboo Fabric Production Worldwide

Bamboo fabric production occurs in several countries, with China being a major producer. Other countries like India, Indonesia, and Vietnam also contribute to the global production of bamboo fabric.

How much does it cost?

Products made of bamboo fabric can range greatly in price depending on the type, brand, quality, and any other features. In general, bamboo fabric products can cost on par with premium cotton or other eco-friendly textiles.

Conclusion

Bamboo fabric is a testament to sustainable innovation in the textile industry. Its eco-friendly production, luxurious characteristics, and various sourcing options make it a compelling choice for conscious consumers. Bamboo fabric offers a variety of miracles just waiting to be discovered, whether you’re looking for cozy apparel, breathable bedding, or eco-friendly accessories. You can make decisions that are consistent with your beliefs and work towards a more sustainable future by being aware of how it is produced, appreciating its unique traits, and knowing where to obtain it.

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Nationwide Triumph Sustainable Fashion Week Thrives!

Nationwide Triumph: Sustainable Fashion Week Thrives!

by with No Comment Newssustainability

In a groundbreaking celebration of eco-conscious style, Sustainable Fashion Week has left an indelible mark on the fashion landscape, establishing itself as a beacon of change and a catalyst for conscious consumerism. The resounding success of its events, spanning from coast to coast, serves as a testament to the growing influence of sustainability in the fashion industry.

Sustainable Fashion Week is “embracing the tide of public sentiment,” drawing hundreds of participants to events focused on transforming wardrobe habits for the greater good.

From September 25 to October 8, the exhibition will offer a variety of runway events, seminars, and masterclasses on upstyling, clothes swaps, and repairs in the UK and abroad.

save earth

Amelia Twine of Bristol founded the event in 2020, and this is the first time it has travelled beyond the city to the US, Papua New Guinea, and India, in addition to eight UK towns and cities, from Bradford and Manchester to Frome and Brighton.

More than 600 people had come by the afternoon of the inaugural event, according to organizers of the Brighton hub, who declared it to be “a massive success” on Saturday.

Director of the community interest group Sew Fabulous and a co-organizer Susie Deadman said: “When we started (Sew Fabulous) ten years ago, we were fairly unusual in our approach; not many people were talking about sustainability. Ten years on and we have watched it grow. In terms of Sustainable Fashion Week we are riding the wave now of public opinion and we all want to change it.“

The ReWear Revolution, this year’s theme, strives to upend the current quo and demonstrate what is possible on the High Street.

Hayley Franco, a co-organizer from the Brighton Peace and Environment Centre, added: “The whole point of this event is to teach the community the tools they need to extend the lifecycle of clothes they already own, and change their perspective towards clothes and how we wear them.”

Concern over cost is one of the obstacles, according to founder Ms. Twine, that prevents people from acting more sustainably. However, recycled clothing is both more sustainable and less expensive.

She said: “This is about giving a platform for those taking action on how we consume fashion. It reconnects people with how clothes are made, reconnects them with their community and de-stigmatises second-hand or hand-me-downs. We want to give all those easy entry points into sustainable fashion equal airtime, so that nobody is excluded from the narrative.”

The clothing you currently own is the “most sustainable” you can wear, Ms. Franco and Ms. Deadman emphasized, and clothing swaps and repairs are accessible to everyone.

Ms. Twine, who previously founded an online sustainable women’s fashion retailer, came to the realization that altering consumer behavior is more important than modifying the product’s sustainability.

Mrs. Twine said: “Fashion is now recognized as something you consume that has a serious impact on the environment,”

She further said: “The British Fashion Council has said that we have enough clothing on the planet to dress the next six generations. We don’t see reducing consumption of clothes as a loss. We want to challenge that thinking and focus on the abundance of opportunities. We want to make sure people discovering a fabulous second-hand item, or repairing or remodelling one of their existing pieces, enjoy that same rush they get when they buy something new.”

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The Eco-Resale Trendsetter

ALC’s ALConscious: The Eco-Resale Trendsetter

by with No Comment Newssustainability

Los Angeles-based fashion brand, the Andrea Lieberman Collection (ALC), has taken a significant step towards sustainability by teaming up with technology firm Archive and logistics expert SuperCircle to launch the ALConscious resale and recycling initiative. This groundbreaking program empowers consumers to buy and sell pre-loved ALC items through the ALConscious peer-to-peer marketplace. Alternatively, they can choose to send in any pre-owned clothing item for recycling through SuperCircle’s reverse logistics platform, all while earning ALC store credit – even if the item is from a different fashion brand. Notably, this collaboration marks the inaugural partnership between Archive and SuperCircle in powering a branded resale and recycling initiative.

Andrea Lieberman, the Founder and Creative Director of A.L.C., has always been a vocal advocate for sustainable practices in the fashion industry. She highlights the company’s dedication to the ecosystem, emphasizing their community-centric approach and how this program is a natural extension of that ethos. Lieberman states, “Our commitment to sustainability goes beyond creating eco-friendly fashion. We want to give our customers the opportunity to be a part of the solution, to actively engage in circular fashion practices.”

Emily Gittins, CEO and co-founder at Archive, expresses her enthusiasm for this collaboration, emphasizing the innovative integration of technologies with a diverse range of logistics partners to tailor resale programs for some of the world’s most pioneering brands. Archive, known for its expertise in the resale domain, takes the lead by enabling a broad spectrum of customizable business models. This simplifies the launch and expansion of fully branded resale channels for brands, making sustainability more accessible for both consumers and fashion labels alike.

For more details visit A.L.C.

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California's Climate Act Catalyzing

California’s Climate Act: Catalyzing Sustainability in the US Fashion Industry

by with No Comment Newssustainability

In a significant stride towards environmental responsibility, leading organizations within the American fashion industry have united in support of California’s proposed Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act. This collaborative effort, spearheaded by the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), the Accessories Council, and the Council of Fashion Designers of America (CFDA), underscores the industry’s commitment to a greener future.

A Joint Endeavor for Sustainability

The joint letter from AAFA, the Accessories Council, and CFDA signals a unified stance on the importance of sustainability within the fashion sector. By endorsing the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act, these organizations are reinforcing their dedication to transparency and accountability in terms of greenhouse gas emissions.

Forcing Transparency Through Legislation

The proposed law takes a proactive approach towards sustainability by requiring businesses operating in California, with yearly gross revenues exceeding US $1 billion, to publicly disclose their annual greenhouse gas emissions. This crucial step ensures that environmental impact is not just a mere consideration, but an integral part of business operations.

Alignment with Threads Protocol

The Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act finds resonance with the Threads Protocol, introduced by the organizations earlier in January 2023. This protocol serves as a blueprint for policymakers, facilitating the evolution of sustainable practices within the fashion sector. The alignment between the proposed act and the Threads Protocol underscores a holistic commitment to driving positive change.

The Voice of the Industry

Steve Lamar, the President and CEO of AAFA, emphasizes the urgency of environmental action. He notes that the warming planet poses a significant threat not only to the industry but also to the communities it serves. The fashion industry’s support of the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act demonstrates its willingness to lead by example and be an active participant in the fight against climate change.

Key PointsDetails
Collaborative SupportAAFA, Accessories Council, and CFDA endorse California’s Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act.
Transparency MandateThe proposed law compels businesses with over $1 billion in yearly revenue in California to disclose greenhouse gas emissions.
Threads Protocol AlignmentThe act aligns with the Threads Protocol, emphasizing the industry’s holistic commitment to sustainability.
Industry LeadershipAAFA’s CEO highlights the industry’s dedication to combatting climate change and its impact on communities.

President and CEO of AAFA Steve Lamar said on the Act, “The continual warming of our planet poses a significant risk to our industry and our communities.”

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Fashion Forward

Fashion Forward: UNEP and UNCC Unveil the Ultimate Guide to Sustainable Style

by with One Comment News

The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) and the United Nations Climate Change (UNCC) have teamed up to address the fashion industry’s critical need for sustainability. The Sustainable Fashion Playbook, a comprehensive manual for enacting positive change in the fashion industry, has just been released as a consequence of their combined efforts.

Ina Parvanova, the UN Climate Change’s head of communications and engagement, pointed out in a statement: “The fashion industry is aware that systemic improvements are necessary. It is vital to change consumer behavior and to address the part that marketing and narrative play in this.”

The playbook, which was unveiled at the Global Fashion Summit in Copenhagen, provides guidance on how to mobilise public opinion in support of initiatives that combine environmental and social concerns for communicators who interact with consumers, including marketers, brand managers, image-makers, storytellers, media, and influential individuals.

The main points from the playbook, highlighting the strategies and approaches it offers to promote sustainability in the fashion industry.

Main Points from the Sustainable Fashion Playbook:

POINTSDESCRIPTION
Holistic Sustainability ApproachThe playbook emphasizes a comprehensive approach to sustainability, considering environmental, social, and economic dimensions of the industry.
Collaboration and PartnershipStakeholders across the fashion value chain are encouraged to collaborate and work together towards shared sustainability goals.
Actionable StrategiesPractical guidance and actionable strategies are provided for areas such as design, sourcing, supply chain management, and waste reduction.
Innovation and TechnologyThe playbook recognizes the role of innovation and technology in driving sustainability, promoting their integration in the fashion industry.
Commitment to Climate ActionAligning with the goals of the Paris Agreement and taking concrete climate action is emphasized as a crucial aspect of sustainable fashion.

The Sustainable Fashion Communication Playbook acknowledges the power of the marketing apparatus used by the fashion industry as well as the significant role it plays in shaping customer desire, aspiration, and consumption levels. It presents an innovative option to concentrate their efforts on identifying circular and long-lasting solutions. Additionally, it provides a foundation for when regulations governing the presentation of environmental claims progressively come into existence.

UNEP’s communication director, Daniel Cooney, stated “The balance between the science of sustainability and reimagining the fashion narrative is where communicators can excel.”

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For Playbook: Unep.org