Latest news with #FairTrade
Tatler Asia
05-08-2025
- Business
- Tatler Asia
'No beauty is innocent': Is sustainable fashion truly sustainable?
It offers more than garments, reflecting a wider value system: a commitment to people, the planet, and production ethics. Each fabric thread weaves together a generation's hopes for what lies ahead. Because of this sense of stewardship, sustainable fashion moves away from mass production. Instead of rapidly filling shelves or cutting costs for profit, many brands opt for small-batch production, on-demand design, conscious consumption, and predominantly manual craftsmanship. The process is slower and costlier. Above Materials are one of the greatest contributors to higher costs (photo: kilomet109) Above Fibres like hemp or banana require intensive manual steps such as stripping, drying, and spinning, all of which demand time and labour (photo: kilomet109) Materials are one of the greatest contributors to higher costs. Sustainable labels prioritise natural and locally sourced fibres such as linen, hemp, silk, pineapple and banana fibres. Unlike synthetics, these cannot be mass-produced, and their availability is shaped by seasons, climate, and traditional farming methods, making their procurement more expensive. Moreover, fibres like hemp or banana require intensive manual steps such as stripping, drying, and spinning, all of which demand time and labour. Then comes production. A hand-dyed linen shirt might take two to three weeks to craft, while a mass-produced cotton shirt can be made in mere hours. The difference lies not just in the outcome, but in the philosophy. Ethical labels actively avoid cheap labour, commit to fair pay, and uphold safe, dignified working environments. Above Ethical labels actively avoid cheap labour, commit to fair pay, and uphold safe, dignified working environments (photo: norlha_atelier) Above To achieve GOTS certification for organic fibres, for example, a brand must invest thousands or even several thousands of US dollars annually in independent testing alone (Photo: norlha_atelier) Beyond labour, these brands also absorb a host of hidden expenses: organic and fair-trade certifications (such as GOTS and Fair Trade), investments in traceability software, and transparent emissions and wastewater reporting. To achieve GOTS certification for organic fibres, for example, a brand must invest thousands or even several thousands of US dollars annually in independent testing alone. Lifestyle not for the masses? The high price of sustainability has quietly erected a barrier, shutting out low-income communities, particularly in developing countries like Vietnam. When 'living green' comes at a premium, it begs the question: is sustainability still truly sustainable if it is out of reach? And in casting fast fashion as morally flawed, are we unintentionally deepening social divides, turning pragmatic decisions into ethical failings? In this light, sustainable fashion finds itself in a paradox: celebrated as a moral compass, yet increasingly reserved for the middle and upper classes. See more: How to prevent 'flight face' while travelling When 'being ethical' becomes a privilege A shirt crafted from handwoven, naturally dyed linen might cost three to five times more than a similar piece from a fast fashion label. Though widely regarded as a hallmark of ethical consumption, sustainable fashion places many low-income consumers in a bind: to buy affordably is seen as irresponsible, yet opting for sustainable choices is often out of financial reach. Suggestions like 'shop second-hand' may appear sensible, but in practice require time, skill, and lifestyle conditions not available to all. In many regions, the second-hand market itself has become curated and costly, catering to a more affluent demographic. As a result, sustainable living is becoming entwined with privilege shaped by access to education, disposable income, and leisure time. These resources are not distributed equally. Above In many regions, the second-hand market itself has become curated and costly, catering to a more affluent demographic (photo: norlha_atelier) The pressure to consume 'ethically' This pressure is partly shaped by brands and media, where ethical consumption is often portrayed as a civic duty. Messaging like 'if you don't go green, you're harming the planet' can instil guilt in consumers who cannot afford to adopt sustainable habits. Increasingly, 'sustainability' has been distilled into a narrow checklist of approved actions: buy the right brands, wear the right 'green' labels, choose the right materials. See also: The link between fine sustainable jewellery and the blockchain Though framed as a holistic solution for the planet and people, today's sustainable fashion movement is reproducing invisible class lines in marketing language and campaign imagery. 'Green living' is coded in minimalist visuals, technical jargon, and aspirational ethics that remain inaccessible to many. Meanwhile, those who feel the sharpest consequences of the fashion industry: the garment workers in exploitative conditions and low-income communities in polluted cities are often absent from this conversation. They are rarely reflected in campaigns, let alone able to afford the products they promote. Above When ethics are packaged like luxury goods, is 'sustainability' truly sustainable, or merely a status symbol for the privileged few? (photo: stellamccartney) Above When ethics are packaged like luxury goods, is 'sustainability' truly sustainable, or merely a status symbol for the privileged few? (photo: stellamccartney) According to a report by the Hot or Cool Institute and the Rapid Transition Alliance (2022), the wealthiest 20 per cent of consumers are responsible for fashion emissions 20 times greater than those of the poorest 20 per cent. Meanwhile, the BoF Sustainability Index (2022) reveals that several luxury groups, Prada, Richemont and Capri among them, rank lower in sustainability than certain mass-market brands. No beauty is innocent. When ethics are packaged like luxury goods, is 'sustainability' truly sustainable, or merely a status symbol for the privileged few?
Associated Press
08-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Fair Trade LA, The Tote Project, and Fair Trade USA™ Distribute 100 "Fair Care Packages" to Families Affected by Los Angeles Fires
LOS ANGELES, July 8, 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- Last month, in a powerful demonstration of community solidarity and ethical commerce, Fair Trade LA, in partnership with The Tote Project and Fair Trade USA, has distributed 100 Fair Care Packages to individuals and families who lost their homes in the recent Los Angeles wildfires. Each package was filled with meaningful self-care items from Fair Trade brands, social enterprises, and businesses in the community and were curated to provide comfort, dignity, and a sense of hope to those who are rebuilding their lives. From handcrafted goods to ethically sourced wellness products, every item was chosen to uplift the recipient and serve as a tangible reminder: you are not forgotten. 'When disaster strikes, it's easy for people to feel overlooked or left behind,' said Rebecca Dunn, Executive Director of Fair Trade LA. 'We wanted each Fair Care Package to let people know that they are not forgotten, and there is a community of people who care deeply about your recovery.' A Community of Givers This initiative was made possible through the generosity of impactful brands that donated $35,000 worth of products. Brands including The Tote Project, e.l.f. Beauty, JUST ICE Tea, Numi Tea, Ten Thousand Villages, 7th Heaven Chocolate, TCHO, Sanders Candy, MADE by DWC, True Moringa, spaZa Store, COLOR WOW, and Thumbprint Artifacts contributed items to the Fair Care Packages. Each brand is committed not just to ethical production, but to supporting vulnerable communities, both abroad and at home. 'Fair trade isn't just about how something is made, it's about who it impacts,' said Michelle Chavez, Co-Founder of The Tote Project. 'We were honored to be part of a project that brought care and encouragement to our neighbors. The news cycle may have moved on, but we are still here.' With support from Fair Trade USA, this collaborative effort highlights the expanding role of conscious consumerism in crisis response and recovery. The Fair Care Packages offer a glimpse into what's possible when businesses, nonprofits, and local advocates work together to meet human needs with compassion and integrity. 'The Fair Trade movement is rooted in community. Fair Trade USA has worked for years to not just build more equity for producer communities, but to also support communities here in the United States in their advocacy for Fair Trade. When any of the communities we work with are strained and in need, we will always contribute what we can to provide support.' - Felipe Arango, CEO of Fair Trade USA About Fair Trade LA: Fair Trade LA is a passionate community dedicated to creating a fairer world by supporting ethical and sustainable trade. Our mission is to promote fair trade principles, ensuring that artisans and farmers around the world receive fair wages and work in safe conditions. About The Tote Project: The Tote Project is a fair trade collection of ethically and sustainably made giftable goods that exists to empower survivors of human trafficking. About Fair Trade USA: Fair Trade USA™, a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is the leading certifier of fair trade products in North America. Offering award-winning, rigorous, and globally recognized sustainable sourcing certification programs that improve livelihoods, protect the environment, and build resilient, transparent supply chains, its trusted Fair Trade Certified™ seal on a product signifies that it was made according to stringent fair trade standards. Fair Trade USA is building an innovative model of responsible business, conscious consumerism, and shared value to eliminate poverty and enable sustainable development for farmers, workers, their families, and communities around the world. Media Contact: Fair Trade USA Public Relations [email protected] To view the full list of participating brands or learn how to contribute to future initiatives, visit @FairTradeLA , @TheToteProject or @fairtradecertified on Instagram. View original content to download multimedia: SOURCE Fair Trade USA™
Fashion Value Chain
30-06-2025
- Business
- Fashion Value Chain
VT Garment Doubles Efficiency with Centric PLM
VT Garment, a leading Thai manufacturer known for producing high-quality apparel for major outdoor brands, has achieved remarkable operational gains through its partnership with Centric Software®, a global leader in Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) solutions. In a recently released video case study, Centric Software highlights how VT Garment's implementation of Centric PLMTM has transformed their production processes. Since adopting the solution in 2019, the company has streamlined workflows and significantly boosted productivity, enabling faster, more agile delivery of premium outerwear and sportswear. Key achievements include: 100% increase in workload efficiency – tasks that previously required two employees can now be handled by one. 80% improvement in sample approval rates 30% boost in overall productivity 20% faster time to market 7% reduction in development lead times 'Centric PLM has doubled our efficiency. One person can now handle the workload that used to require two,' says Mingkwan Lotharukpong, Merchandising Director at VT Garment. VT Garment supplies apparel for renowned international brands including Patagonia, Montbell, Jack Wolfskin, and O'Neill, producing around 185,000 units monthly across its facilities in Thailand and Myanmar. The company is also recognized for its Fair Trade certification and commitment to ethical labor, sustainability, and innovation in design and manufacturing. With Centric PLM, VT Garment continues to set benchmarks in operational excellence while upholding high standards in quality and sustainability.
Yahoo
12-06-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
SAMBAZON® Launches Organic Ready-To-Top Açaí Bowls in Canada, Available Now at Sobeys
SAN CLEMENTE, Calif., June 12, 2025 /CNW/ -- SAMBAZON®, the leader of Certified Organic and Fair Trade Açaí products, is excited to announce its popular frozen SAMBAZON® Açaí Bowls are now available at Sobeys in Canada. Canadians can find two delicious flavors— Amazon Superberry Açaí Bowl and Berry Bliss Açaí Bowl. These Ready-to-Eat bowls come with a rich Açaí blend and crunchy granola—just thaw, top with your favorite fruits, and enjoy. They're perfect for a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or anytime you need a nourishing boost. "We're thrilled to bring SAMBAZON to Canada," said Vicki Isip, Chief Marketing Officer. "Our bowls make it easy for anyone to enjoy the benefits of Açaí—fast, flavorful, and thoughtfully crafted." SAMBAZON hopes to continue expanding in the Canadian market with iLevel Management for broker representation. For interested potential partnerships, please reach out to iLevel Management by phone 416-342-0213 or email info@ SAMBAZON Açaí is Certified Organic and Fair Trade, sustainably harvested from the Brazilian Amazon to support local communities and protect the rainforest. Find the SAMBAZON Açaí Bowls now in the frozen aisle at Sobeys. ABOUT SAMBAZONFounded in 2000, SAMBAZON, an acronym for Sustainable Management of the Brazilian Amazon, was the first company to introduce "certified Açaí" to the world, supplying organic and Fair Trade certified Açaí products such as Smoothie Packs, Ready-to-Eat Açaí Bowls, and Juices & Functional Beverages from a proprietary supply chain to ensure transparency from the "palm of the tree to the palm of your hand." For more information about SAMBAZON's mission and products, visit SOURCE SAMBAZON View original content to download multimedia:
Cision Canada
12-06-2025
- Business
- Cision Canada
SAMBAZON® Launches Organic Ready-To-Top Açaí Bowls in Canada, Available Now at Sobeys
SAN CLEMENTE, Calif., June 12, 2025 /CNW/ -- SAMBAZON ®, the leader of Certified Organic and Fair Trade Açaí products, is excited to announce its popular frozen SAMBAZON ® Açaí Bowls are now available at Sobeys in Canada. Canadians can find two delicious flavors— Amazon Superberry Açaí Bowl and Berry Bliss Açaí Bowl. These Ready-to-Eat bowls come with a rich Açaí blend and crunchy granola—just thaw, top with your favorite fruits, and enjoy. They're perfect for a quick breakfast, post-workout snack, or anytime you need a nourishing boost. "We're thrilled to bring SAMBAZON to Canada," said Vicki Isip, Chief Marketing Officer. "Our bowls make it easy for anyone to enjoy the benefits of Açaí—fast, flavorful, and thoughtfully crafted." SAMBAZON hopes to continue expanding in the Canadian market with iLevel Management for broker representation. For interested potential partnerships, please reach out to iLevel Management by phone 416-342-0213 or email [email protected]. SAMBAZON Açaí is Certified Organic and Fair Trade, sustainably harvested from the Brazilian Amazon to support local communities and protect the rainforest. Find the SAMBAZON Açaí Bowls now in the frozen aisle at Sobeys. ABOUT SAMBAZON Founded in 2000, SAMBAZON, an acronym for Sustainable Management of the Brazilian Amazon, was the first company to introduce "certified Açaí" to the world, supplying organic and Fair Trade certified Açaí products such as Smoothie Packs, Ready-to-Eat Açaí Bowls, and Juices & Functional Beverages from a proprietary supply chain to ensure transparency from the "palm of the tree to the palm of your hand." For more information about SAMBAZON's mission and products, visit
