Wie können Textilverbraucher informiertere und verantwortungsvollere Entscheidungen treffen?
Die Textilindustrie ist eine der größten und vielfältigsten Branchen der Welt und produziert alles von Kleidung und Stoffen bis hin zu Teppichen und Polstern. Sie ist jedoch auch mit vielen sozialen und ethischen Problemen konfrontiert, wie z. B. Umweltverschmutzung, Menschenrechtsverletzungen, Tierschutz sowie Gesundheit und Sicherheit der Verbraucher. Als Textilverbraucher haben Sie die Möglichkeit, fundiertere und verantwortungsvollere Entscheidungen zu treffen, die sich positiv auf die Branche und den Planeten auswirken können. Hier sind einige Tipps, die Ihnen dabei helfen.
Eine der einfachsten Möglichkeiten, mehr über die Herkunft und Qualität der von Ihnen gekauften Textilien zu erfahren, besteht darin, die Etiketten zu lesen. Etiketten können Ihnen sagen, welche Materialien verwendet werden, woher sie kommen, wie sie verarbeitet werden und welche Zertifizierungen oder Standards sie erfüllen. Sie können beispielsweise nach Labels suchen, die auf biologische, fair gehandelte, recycelte oder vegane Textilien hinweisen oder die ökologischen oder sozialen Kriterien entsprechen, wie z. B. den Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), der Fair Wear Foundation oder dem Responsible Wool Standard (RWS). Seien Sie sich jedoch bewusst, dass einige Bezeichnungen irreführend oder vage sein können, also recherchieren Sie, bevor Sie ihnen vertrauen.
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Barbara Filippone
Founder/ President at EnviroTextiles™, LLC
When purchasing a garment the brand tag which is attached to the garment does not disclose the actual content the garment is made of/ from. Always check the sewn in tag on the inside side seam .
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Irene Fariña
Formadora / Creadora de la web textil Textilae / Directora contenidos en Sartia Formación / Vocal AEQCT
The consumer now wants to know, but we need to improve two factors: Traceability: given that textiles is a long industrial itinerary, fragmented by phases and with suppliers located in most cases thousands of kilometres away from each other. A single regulatory framework: as there are currently multiple regulations and certifications. Although they are necessary, as there are so many different ones, they also generate doubts. Fortunately the trend is towards collaboration and joint design of regulations. Options such as the digital passport or the application of the blockchain system in the tracking can make a significant contribution to ensuring that the information received by the final customer is as clear as possible.
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Barbara Filippone
Founder/ President at EnviroTextiles™, LLC
Traceability is not possible , without transparency of content first and foremost. Traceability is not possible , without transparency of content sources first and foremost.
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Barbara Filippone
Founder/ President at EnviroTextiles™, LLC
when the GOTS ( Global Organic Textile Standard ) certified first came out it was a great addition to the NOP ( National Organic Program ) ! Although it has become a money making machine ,causing great products made from organic certified products unaffordable for the conscious consumers and unconscious. FYI : in the world of science the term Volatile Organic Compound is synonymous with toxic ,harmful , bad stuff. I would like to suggest the endless acronyms be spelled out .
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Hermes P.
Business Developer at Tintex Textiles
Labels are, essentially, the footnotes to a garment's journey, offering insights into its material composition, origin, and ethical backbone. As consumers navigate the vast array of textiles, recognizing certifications like the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), the Fair Wear Foundation, or the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS) can serve as guiding stars, pointing towards products that resonate with ethical and sustainable values. Nevertheless, a word of caution: the onus is on the consumer to discern the genuine from the disingenuous. It's vital to approach labels with an informed perspective, recognizing that while many are genuine indicators of quality and ethics, others may merely be marketing veneers.
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Caglar Yurut
Founder at AEM Textile | Apparel Manufacturing, Sportswear, Premium Branded Merchandise, Music Merch, Sustainable Clothing, Motorsports, Team-sports
It is the duty of the brands who need to inform their customers transparently about the product they purchase and it's manufacturing process. I believe there needs to be a classification rating based on the brand being fast fashion or small medium sized, production methods, most importantly the materials used to make the clothing. That would allow users to distinguish their choices. As we see on the EU on Energy rating, more or less the same system can be applied to the garments. I am hoping to see such work done by an international non profit organization.
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Amit Chowhan
Assistant Manager - Knitting | 3M's Team (Man, Machine & Material Standardization) | B.Sc. in Textile Engineer | Six Sigma Yellow Belt Professional |
Textile consumers can make more informed and responsible choices by understanding clothing labels. Look for certifications like Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or OEKO-TEX, which indicate sustainable and safe production practices. Check fiber content labels to see if the garment is made from natural, recycled, or eco-friendly materials. Pay attention to care labels, as they provide guidance on how to properly maintain garments, extending their lifespan. Knowing the labels helps consumers choose products that align with their values and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry.
Eine weitere Möglichkeit, verantwortungsvollere Entscheidungen zu treffen, besteht darin, sich für natürliche und nachhaltige Fasern gegenüber synthetischen und nicht erneuerbaren zu entscheiden. Naturfasern wie Baumwolle, Wolle, Seide, Leinen oder Hanf werden aus Pflanzen oder Tieren gewonnen und sind biologisch abbaubar und erneuerbar. Nachhaltige Fasern wie Bio-Baumwolle, Bambus, Lyocell oder Hanf werden mit minimaler Umweltbelastung und unter Achtung der Menschen- und Tierrechte angebaut oder produziert. Synthetische Fasern wie Polyester, Nylon, Acryl oder Elasthan werden aus Erdöl oder anderen Chemikalien hergestellt und sind nicht biologisch abbaubar und energieintensiv. Sie scheiden auch Mikroplastik aus, das die Ozeane verschmutzt und Meereslebewesen schädigt.
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Barbara Filippone
Founder/ President at EnviroTextiles™, LLC
whoever is providing this information is not being as transparent or knowledgeable as needed. First Lyocell can be made from numerous plant materials. The majority of Bamboo products are actually viscose . Check sewn in labels in side seams or on that sheet set ! FTC labeling laws require Bamboo to disclose of the bamboo is viscose bamboo.
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Caglar Yurut
Founder at AEM Textile | Apparel Manufacturing, Sportswear, Premium Branded Merchandise, Music Merch, Sustainable Clothing, Motorsports, Team-sports
Selecting right fibre is important, it's a very complicated topic where we can start by natural and man made fibers. Other than that there are many processes that effect the nature of the fibre. Especially chemical treatments used to make fibers smoother and softer, and also finishing processes on the dye house. Sometimes natural fibres can harm more than man made fibres depending on these. Sustainability is a very complex topic, which cannot be simplified into choosing natural fibers.. In my opinion the quality and life cycle of a garment also plays a significant role on today's harmful industry such as textiles. Using a T-shirt for a decade or just a couple of months can be a huge difference in example.
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Hermes P.
Business Developer at Tintex Textiles
In the global textile landscape, there's an increasing shift towards natural and sustainable fibers. Derived from plants and animals, these fibers stand as symbols of eco-consciousness, biodegradability, and ethical responsibility. Choosing materials like organic cotton or bamboo means supporting practices that minimize environmental harm and uphold ethical standards. In contrast, synthetic fibers, born from petrochemical processes, linger in our ecosystems and release microplastics, imperiling marine life. As informed consumers, prioritizing natural and sustainable textiles isn't merely a trend but a pledge to a harmonious, eco-friendly future.
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Theren Moodley
Co-Founder & CGO @ Make the Dot | 500 Global
Hemp, Flax, and Bamboo are obvious starting points. However, there are other bio-based fibers to consider. - Organic Cotton contains no pesticides or synthetic fertilizers - Pinatex is a leather made from Pineapple leaves - Mycelium is a leather made from the root structure of mushrooms
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Amit Chowhan
Assistant Manager - Knitting | 3M's Team (Man, Machine & Material Standardization) | B.Sc. in Textile Engineer | Six Sigma Yellow Belt Professional |
Consumers can make more responsible choices by choosing natural and sustainable fibers. Opt for garments made from organic cotton, which is grown without harmful pesticides, or linen and hemp, which require fewer resources to cultivate. Wool is another natural option that can be renewable and biodegradable. When considering synthetic fibers, look for recycled options like recycled polyester, which reduces waste by reusing existing materials. Prioritize brands that source their fibers sustainably and adhere to ethical practices. By choosing natural and sustainable fibers, consumers support a healthier planet and more ethical fashion industry.
Eine der effektivsten Möglichkeiten, Ihren Textilverbrauch und Abfall zu reduzieren, besteht darin, weniger und besser zu kaufen. Das bedeutet, Qualität statt Quantität zu wählen, in langlebige und vielseitige Stücke zu investieren, die länger halten und Ihrem Stil und Ihren Bedürfnissen entsprechen, und Fast Fashion und Impulskäufe zu vermeiden. Wenn Sie weniger und besser kaufen, können Sie auf lange Sicht auch Geld, Platz und Zeit sparen und Ihren ökologischen Fußabdruck und Ihren Wasserfußabdruck reduzieren. Sie können auch lokale und ethische Marken unterstützen, die transparente und faire Produktionspraktiken anbieten und recycelte oder upgecycelte Materialien verwenden.
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Alpana Razdan
Co-Founder @ AtticSalt Country Manager@Falabella (India,Pakistan,Bangladesh) |
- Consider durability, cost, and processing effects for cotton, wool, linen, hemp, and bamboo. - Look for GOTS organic cotton certificates to verify sustainability claims in complex global supply chains. - Assess manufacturing disclosures and carbon offsets for brand climate promises. - Check labels for “meet code” language that obscures minimal standards, not best practices. For circular use, prefer high-resale clothing. Simple changes like eliminating plastic-leaching acrylics and nylons change value chains. Through informed fibre and source selection, conscientious consumers may shape textile impacts through daily garment purchases, compounding into industry-moving market forces through responsible innovation demand.
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Barbara Filippone
Founder/ President at EnviroTextiles™, LLC
support your local thrift shops and Salvation Army stores . Depending on where you live will determine what you can find. Become your own style ,seasonal changes are destroying our environment. "Recycling is a temporary Solution for what we can not bio degrade ". If we are to recycle/ upcycle clothing, such as polyester or recycle plastic into more plastic what have we achieved ? other than perpetuating the problem we created! I am all for recycling plastic into long life products , such as out door furniture, side walk pavers, not intended for construction materials for housing. Recycling into clothing is unhealthy for human applications such as clothing.
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Theren Moodley
Co-Founder & CGO @ Make the Dot | 500 Global
In the past, it was common to buy fewer items of higher quality. However, in the last 15 years, the rise of fast fashion has shifted this paradigm, which has led to a high-consumption model where consumers are encouraged to buy more items of lower quality. Despite this trend, formalwear, outerwear, and bags still follow the "buy less, buy better" model, so there is no reason why the rest of the wardrobe shouldn't return to this model as well. Ultimately, consumers have the power to drive change by making conscious purchases.
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Amit Chowhan
Assistant Manager - Knitting | 3M's Team (Man, Machine & Material Standardization) | B.Sc. in Textile Engineer | Six Sigma Yellow Belt Professional |
Buying less and buying better is a key approach for textile consumers to make more responsible choices. Prioritize quality over quantity by investing in well-made garments that will last longer. Look for durable fabrics and timeless designs that won't go out of style quickly. Consider the versatility of a piece and how it fits into your existing wardrobe. By buying fewer items that you truly love and will wear often, you reduce waste and the environmental impact of fashion production. This mindset encourages conscious consumption and helps support a more sustainable fashion industry.
Die Art und Weise, wie Sie Ihre Textilien pflegen, kann auch einen Unterschied in ihrer Lebensdauer und Umweltbelastung ausmachen. Sie können die Lebensdauer Ihrer Textilien verlängern, indem Sie die Wasch- und Trocknungsanweisungen befolgen, sanfte Waschmittel und kaltes Wasser verwenden, eventuelle Schäden reparieren oder ausbessern und sie richtig lagern. Sie können auch die Umweltbelastung Ihrer Textilien reduzieren, indem Sie sie seltener waschen, umweltfreundliche Wasch- und Weichspüler verwenden, sie auf der Leine trocknen oder an der Luft trocknen und Ihre Geräte bei niedrigen Temperaturen oder energieeffizient einstellen.
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Hermes P.
Business Developer at Tintex Textiles
The portuguese textille industry, rooted in a rich tapestry of craftsmanship, celebrates pieces that stand the test of time. When consumers prioritize enduring quality over fleeting trends, they not only curate a timeless wardrobe but also challenge the cycle of fast fashion and wasteful consumption. By consciously selecting versatile, long-lasting garments, one can make sustainable savings, both financially and ecologically. Supporting local artisans and brands that champion ethical, transparent practices further accentuates this ethos. After all, a mindful purchase isn't just about adorning oneself, but also weaving a narrative of responsibility and heritage.
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Amit Chowhan
Assistant Manager - Knitting | 3M's Team (Man, Machine & Material Standardization) | B.Sc. in Textile Engineer | Six Sigma Yellow Belt Professional |
Caring for your textiles is essential for prolonging their lifespan and reducing the need for frequent replacements. Follow care instructions provided on garment labels to ensure proper maintenance. Use eco-friendly detergents and wash clothes in cold water to conserve energy and preserve colors. Avoid over-washing and opt for spot cleaning when possible to minimize wear and tear. Air dry your clothes instead of using a dryer to save energy and prevent shrinkage. Mend and repair garments when needed to extend their usability. By taking care of your textiles, you contribute to a more sustainable and responsible approach to fashion consumption.
Wenn Sie Ihre Textilien nicht mehr brauchen oder wollen, können Sie sie spenden oder recyceln, anstatt sie wegzuwerfen. Wenn Sie Ihre Textilien spenden, können Sie ihnen ein zweites Leben schenken und jemand anderem zugute kommen, der sie braucht. Sie können Ihre Textilien an Wohltätigkeitsorganisationen, Secondhand-Läden, Tierheime oder Gemeindeorganisationen spenden, die sie annehmen. Durch das Recycling Ihrer Textilien können Sie verhindern, dass sie auf Mülldeponien landen, und die Nachfrage nach neuen Materialien verringern. Sie können Ihre Textilien recyceln, indem Sie sie zu Sammelstellen, Abgabebehältern oder Recyclingzentren bringen, die sie annehmen. Sie können Ihre Textilien auch upcyceln, indem Sie sie in neue Produkte wie Taschen, Teppiche, Kissen oder Accessoires verwandeln.
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Theren Moodley
Co-Founder & CGO @ Make the Dot | 500 Global
Utilizing deadstock is a highly sustainable approach to product creation. This method facilitates the circularity of materials, without necessitating any additional energy or resources to produce new materials or fabrics. There are numerous high-quality deadstock materials available for purchase both online and offline, all around the world.
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Hermes P.
Business Developer at Tintex Textiles
In Portugal, the shift towards sustainable practices is palpable. Not only is textile waste being innovatively transformed into recycled yarn for new garments, underlining the industry's commitment to circularity, but there's also a burgeoning momentum in the secondhand clothing market. This growth year on year signifies a cultural embrace of sustainable consumption. Donating textiles provide a second life to garments, fueling the thriving secondhand market, and it also supports a myriad of charities and community organizations.
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Amit Chowhan
Assistant Manager - Knitting | 3M's Team (Man, Machine & Material Standardization) | B.Sc. in Textile Engineer | Six Sigma Yellow Belt Professional |
Donating or recycling your textiles is a responsible way to manage garments you no longer use. When you donate clothes in good condition, you give them a second life with someone else and support charitable organizations. Check local shelters, thrift stores, or community groups that accept clothing donations. For textiles that are too worn for donation, look for recycling programs that accept old clothes, shoes, and other fabric items. These programs can repurpose materials into new products or recycle them into fibers for other uses. By donating or recycling, you help reduce textile waste and promote a circular economy in the fashion industry.
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Ellen McKinney
Professor, Clothing, Textiles, and Interior Design Department at UA
Sustainability means extending the useful life of items. When you purchase look for items that you can use for a long time due. Size -adjustability can increase the longevity of a garment. Look for styles that can wrap around the body, are gathered with drawstrings, or have pleats that can be let out.
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Barbara Filippone
Founder/ President at EnviroTextiles™, LLC
Don't believe what a brand tag claims , this is the tag that is attached to the outside of garment ,usually has the price and about a garments sustainability ; read what the garment is made of ,which will only appear inside the garment sown into the side seam. And most importantly challenge 3rd party certifiers! The latest BS is "traceability " well how the heck can their be traceability without "transparency" !
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Hermes P.
Business Developer at Tintex Textiles
An emerging synergy between AI and platforms like LinkedIn plays a pivotal role in shaping responsible consumption. The textile sector, grapples with multifaceted challenges ranging from environmental concerns to ethical dilemmas. In this age of information, AI-driven insights can sift through the noise, pinpointing sustainable and ethically-produced textiles for the discerning consumer. The LinkedIn community, with its global network of professionals and industry insiders, becomes a platform of shared knowledge and best practices. Leveraging these digital tools, consumers can transition from passive buyers to informed changemakers, ensuring that every purchase supports a sustainable and ethically sound textile narrative.
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