In the realm of fashion, 'sustainable' has become a term often used more for its market appeal than as a genuine indicator of environmental stewardship. At Colorful Bunch, we approach sustainability with a critical eye, especially when it comes to the realities of global production.
The Reality of Global Production
The claim of sustainability is frequently seen in brands that rely on international supply chains. However, these claims can be misleading due to several overlooked factors:
Environmental Cost of Transportation: Garments produced and shipped from overseas carry a significant environmental burden. The long-distance transportation required for these products often negates the benefits of using eco-friendly materials, undermining the sustainability of the end product.
Packaging Practices: Overseas shipping typically involves extensive use of plastic and non-recyclable materials for packaging. This practice stands in stark contrast to sustainability claims, contributing to the ever-growing issue of global plastic pollution.
Questionable Claims About Materials: Consider the case of bamboo. While bamboo is celebrated for its rapid growth and minimal water needs, most bamboo used for fabric is grown outside the U.S., predominantly in Asia. The process of converting bamboo into fabric involves chemical-intensive methods, often detrimental to both the environment and workers involved. This contrast between the raw material’s eco-friendly nature and the environmentally harmful manufacturing process highlights a critical gap in some sustainability claims.
Our Localized Approach to Sustainability
At Colorful Bunch, we believe that true sustainability encompasses the entire life cycle of our products. This conviction guides our decision to focus on local production within the United States, specifically in California and North Carolina. This approach helps us reduce our carbon footprint and maintain a transparent supply chain.
Local Sourcing, Global Impact: By sourcing organic cotton from a cooperative of American farmers and keeping our manufacturing domestic, we ensure minimal environmental impact and uphold a high standard of sustainability.
Upholding Ethical Labor Standards: Domestic production aligns with our commitment to ethical labor practices. The stringent labor laws in the United States guarantee fair treatment and safe working conditions, standards that we are dedicated to maintaining in our production process.
