Paving The Way To Sustainable Fashion: Patagonia

The fashion industry is one of the highest pollutants, even before it comes to the hands of the consumer, steps taken to create the garment alone is an issue. Which is how sustainability comes into play in making sure suitable measures are taken to ensure it isn’t creating environmental damage. Sustainability is a term that has been used loosely by some brands but is something that takes up a lot of steps to obtain in a brand. In terms  of business:

“Sustainability is determined by physical and natural resources, environmental degradation, and social resources” (Mollenkamp, D. T. 2021)

Patagonia is the brand that has been able to create products with sustainability in mind. Founded by Yvon Chouinard with headquarters in Venture, California. “ We’re in business to save our home planet”- Patagonia. The company started off as just makers of tools for climbers but has become known for its gear and apparel. They are the first to use recycled materials and organic cotton. 

In regards to its products Patagonia has a partnership with Fair Trade USA since 2014, paying a premium with the Fair Trade Certified™ label. Resulting to Patagonia’s having 87% of its line being Fair Trade Certified™ sewn and up to 64,000+ workers are supported by patagonia’s participation in the Fair Trade program. 

Global production is a responsibility that the American apparel industry has to take charge of in terms of ensuring that its company is providing adequate support in all areas—within factories, productions, and distribution. Patagonia is putting in the working making it known for its sustainability and the use of eco-friendly materials and recycled materials. Has made it possible for them to expand its production adding new products and the Worn Wear program in which a customer is able to return worn items for credit. Decreasing the number of garment waste. Products vary in pricing highest being $900 (jacket) lowest $18 (socks).

When making your money work in a quality purchase, it is highly important. Patagonia not only has a large price range but the Worn Wear site is great to get items at a lower cost—saving yourself some coin. Sure you can buy cheaper fleece sweaters elsewhere but is the brand you are buying from align with your beliefs? For example, Women’s Micro D ¼ zip fleece costs $59 made with 100% recycled polyester or buy Cozy Sherpa Quarter-Zip that’s on sale for $24 but from a massed production store.

https://www.patagonia.com/product/womens-micro-d-quarter-zip-fleece/26278.html?dwvar_26278_color=CUBL&cgid=womens-fleece