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    Sustainable Workwear Considerations

    We consider not only the benefits of sustainable materials but the significance of choosing quality garments.
Sustainable Workwear Considerations

The Entwined Thread of Quality and Sustainability in Workwear

 

The clothing industry, particularly fashion-led purchasing has a significant impact on the environment. The UK’s fast fashion industry is a major contributor to environmental degradation. Annually, around £140 million worth of clothing ends up in landfills in the UK. The impact of the fashion industry globally has led to the rise of the ‘slow fashion’ movement – we look at the key principles of that, and the lessons that can be learnt for workwear.

The worrying facts of fashion. image

The worrying facts of fashion.

The fashion sector also produces over 2 billion tonnes of CO2 emissions globally, with the UK playing a substantial role in this output. Furthermore, clothing and footwear consumption in the UK is predicted to increase by 63% over the next decade, exacerbating the environmental impact. This underscores the urgent need for sustainable practices​ (WRAP)​​ (GOV.UK)​.

Definition: Slow fashion is part of the sustainable fashion movement, advocating for manufacturing that respects people, the environment, and animals. It emphasises local artisans, eco-friendly materials, and aims to preserve craftsmanship and the environment. This approach promotes ethical and sustainable living by focusing on quality manufacturing to extend the life of garments and encouraging consumers to form a cultural and emotional connection with their clothing.

At HeathBrook while placing a strong emphasis on sustainable manufacturing and sustainable materials, we don’t underestimate the significant impact of quality and encouraging staff to have an emotional connection with the work attire.

Why quality is important

Longevity and Waste Reduction:

Quality clothing is typically made with superior materials and craftsmanship, which means these garments last longer than cheaper alternatives. By lasting longer, they reduce the need for frequent replacements, thereby diminishing the amount of waste sent to landfills.

The Waste and Resources Action Programme (WRAP) found that extending the life of clothes by just nine months can significantly reduce carbon, waste, and water footprints.

The HeathBrook Solution – we make sure that we supply the highest quality, often UK made clothing that is always fit for purpose and designed to last – including important details such as triple stitching, and re-enforced wear and tear area.

Better quality for recycling and upcycling

Better quality for recycling and upcycling

High-quality garments are more likely to be recycled or upcycled due to their durability and timeless designs. This further contributes to their sustainability by giving them life beyond the original owner, as opposed to ending up as waste.

It’s estimated that 350,000 tonnes of wearable but unused clothing are sent to landfill each year in the UK. This represents more than 30% of all unwanted clothing, equating to around £140 million worth of materials that could have been put to better use. This fact underscores the significant gap in the adoption of recycling and upcycling practices that could divert these valuable resources from landfills​ (Clothes Aid)​.

The HeathBrook Solution – in addition to ensuring our workwear lasts longer and is sustainably produced, we offer a pick-up and recycling service.

Understanding our choices

Increasing eco-awareness, government regulations, and consumer needs are fuelling sustainable clothing manufacture. Did you know that the UK alone generates about 4,000 tonnes of plastic microfibre pollution per year through clothes washing? 1,600 tonnes of this pollution ends up in our rivers and oceans, jeopardising our wildlife. Producing high-quality pieces using responsibly sourced materials can help combat the problem.

The HeathBrook Solution – we work with suppliers that are accredited for their sustainable processes and consideration. We can also help you decide on the best garments for your industry and be part of your sustainable workwear role out, promoting the benefits to staff at all levels.

Sustainable Workwear Considerations

How we help

Take a look at our CSR page for a better overview of the importance we place on finding sustainable workwear solutions.  Contact us to see how we can help with your sustainable workwear considerations.

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