As we begin another year, it’s time to take a look at ways we can do better and be better. Here at Boody, we live by the ethos that slow fashion is the way to go and the reasons for this truly are endless. To kick off 2020, though, we thought we’d take a look at the top 20 reasons to support slow fashion and live a more sustainable life.
1. You’ll waste less
The way fast fashion is designed, we’re encouraged to update our wardrobe every season (or more) to keep up with the latest trends. What happens to all the clothes we no longer wear? Well, the majority of them end up in an incinerator or in a landfill. By buying less clothing and focusing on timeless pieces that never go out of style, you’ll actively reduce unnecessary waste created by the fashion industry.
2. You’ll be saving water
According to a report from Fashion Revolution, it takes 2,720 litres of water to make a single cotton t-shirt, which is how much we normally drink over a three year period. The same report also reveals that it takes 757 litres of water to make just one pair of jeans, which is the equivalent to 285 showers. The message is simple: avoid fast fashion and save water.
3. You’ll lower your exposure to chemicals
It’s been identified that cotton farmers and factory workers face long-term exposure to pesticides, toxic dyes and other toxic chemicals that lead to respiratory diseases, headaches, vomiting and even death. But it’s not just workers who face health issues from the chemicals found in most clothing – those wearing them can also suffer. Slow fashion brands like us create clothing using non-toxic dyes and antibacterials fabrics that prevent these issues. In addition, try to purchase garments that are certified non-toxic, like Boody.
4. You’ll lower your carbon footprint
Globally, the apparel and footwear industry accounts for 8% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions. If that number isn't scary enough, try this – it also accounts to 3,990 million metric tons of carbon dioxide being released into the atmosphere each year. That’s a lot of carbon dioxide. By supporting slow fashion, you’ll be lowering your carbon footprint – imagine if everyone else decided to do the same?
5. You’ll be supporting fair working conditions
Many retailers keep their prices low by producing their clothing in factories where workers work under dangerous conditions. Who wants to be wearing something that supports this, no matter how “on-trend” it is? By aligning with the slow fashion ethos, you’ll be supporting workers who work in safe conditions and who are treated fairly. It’s a no-brainer, right?
6. You’ll be supporting fair wages
Speaking of fairness (or lack of it), many retailers also keep their prices low by producing their clothing in factories where workers earn insanely low wages. Global Fashion Agenda found that over half of workers in the fashion industry are not even paid the minimum wage in their country. By supporting slow fashion companies like Boody, you can rest easy knowing that the workers who created your garments are being paid a living wage.
7. You’ll be supporting animal welfare
It’s no news that animal cruelty is ripe throughout the fashion industry. From animals being killed to make use of their fur, skin or hide, to toxic chemicals that are harmful to the animal or their environment, fast fashion quite literally kills. Slow fashion brands that make sustainable clothing are supporting animal welfare, whether directly or indirectly. Here at Boody, we’re Peta-approved – animal welfare is close to our hearts.
8. You’ll be supporting small businesses
It’s pretty obvious that fast fashion is generally produced by mass-market brands, whereas slow fashion is made up of smaller and more independent companies. By purchasing your clothing from a brand that’s part of the slow fashion movement, you’ll be supporting smaller, often family-run and independent businesses.
9. You’ll develop your own style
There’s more to fashion than chasing trends. To truly make your style your own, you should feel free to be as creative or as minimal as you choose. There are no rules! Once you step away from the cycle of trying to keep up with what fast fashion brands are telling you is trending, you can figure out your own personal style and stick to it – slow fashion encourages this concept.
10. You’ll become more minimal
We all know the expression “less is more”, right? Well, one of the beautiful things about slow fashion is that it encourages you to become more minimal (something we all could benefit from in our busy, cluttered world). By taking away the headache of what colours or prints are “in” and rejecting the notion that you can only be seen wearing something once *shudder*, you automatically align with slow fashion and begin living a more minimal, sustainable life.
11. You’ll save time
Following on from our previous point, a minimal wardrobe will instantly save you time each morning. Instead of racing around trying to decide what to wear, or trying to find something because you have so many clothes to choose from, you’ll get to spend more time doing the things you really love in life.
12. You’ll save money
Now, this is one we could all benefit from. Sure, fast fashion items tend to be cheaper. But the very concept of fast fashion is to churn through these lower quality garments, meaning you end up spending more money in the long run. By supporting slow fashion, you’ll buy less which will ultimately save you money.
13. You’ll focus on quality over quantity
A direct result from the above slow fashion benefit, rejecting the notion of fast fashion will lead you to focus far more on quality over quantity. Let’s face it, it’s much better to have a few high-quality pieces than a wardrobe full of poor quality clothing that will end up getting thrown away anyway.
14. You could have better mental health
Another benefit of bypassing the whole trends game is that it could benefit your mental health. Multidisciplinary artist Georgina Johnson unpicked the relationship between mental health and sustainability through her project ‘Slow Fashion to Save Minds’. Think about it, the whole idea of fast fashion is to make someone feel included or excluded. Slow fashion is all about excluding fast fashion, leading to a more positive outlook.
15. You’ll contribute less to pollution
According to reports, textile dyeing is the second-largest polluter of water globally. This is not ok. By choosing to buy less and from sustainable, slow fashion brands such as Boody, who recycle and reuse all dye water, you’ll be automatically contributing less to pollution. Better for your health, better for the health of the planet.
16. You’ll be able to focus on other interests
As already touched on, by freeing up time you previously spent on deciding what to wear in the morning you’ll make time to focus on other passions. Maybe you’ve been meaning to fit in a morning jog that you never get to. Or what about that novel you’ve been chipping away at that you’re too tired to even think about when you get home from work?
17. You’ll be part of a growing movement
The slow fashion movement, or “slow movement” as it has also been called, is a growing wave of interest in rejecting fast fashion and living more simply. This movement favours ethics and sustainability within a business model and supply chain, ultimately meaning higher quality ethical fashion. Eco-friendly slow fashion ensures quality and a better, safer world.
18. You’ll be setting the standard for the next generation
One of the most important aspects to opting for slow, eco-fashion is the fact you’ll be setting a great example for the next generation. Generally speaking, Gen Z is a generation highly engaged with sustainable fashion and living in a way that is generally environmentally friendly and ethical. We should all encourage this mindset by taking part in the slow fashion movement.
19. You’ll feel good about yourself
Here at Boody, we’re all about making you feel good about yourself. Slow fashion does the same thing, which is why we’re so happy to be part of the movement. Not only do our garments make you feel good from a comfort perspective, but also through knowing you’re making a more sustainable choice for the planet.
20. You’ll appreciate what you already have
Finally, one of the most beautiful things about slow fashion is that it stops you from constantly living in a state of “I need more”. By rejecting the notion of fast fashion and building a small but timeless collection of essential items, you'll learn to appreciate what you already have. And let's face it, what we have is often enough.
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What is Plastic Free July and why is it important?
Plastic Free July is here again. But what exactly is the global movement and what makes it so important? Well, anyone who tries to live even the slightest bit of a sustainable life, will know the importance of cutting down single-use plastics. So, what better time to cut down or cut out plastic altogether? We take a look at what Plastic Free July is, why it’s important and how you can get involved. Why not get into the habit of reducing single-use plastic waste every day, whether it’s at home, work or your favourite place to go for lunch. By taking part in Plastic Free July, you’ll be doing something that challenges people and yourself, but gets others to take part in slowing down and ultimately ending the process of plastic production. What is Plastic Free July? Plastic Free July is a global movement that allows millions of people across the world to be part of the solution to plastic pollution. From cleaner oceans to streets, Plastic Free July is the perfect opportunity to commit to refusing single-use plastics. Plastic Free July is an important initiative of the Plastic Free Foundation, an independent, not-for-profit organisation working towards a world free from plastic waste. From humble beginnings in 2011, the award-winning Plastic Free July campaign has been born from years of hard work and dedication. Why is Plastic Free July important? We produce an estimated 300 million tonnes of plastic each year. Let that sink in for a few moments. Once it has… process the next part: roughly half of it is disposable! Sadly, only 10-13% of plastic items are actually recycled. And, because of the nature of petroleum-based disposable plastic, it is almost impossible to recycle it and chemicals have to be added in order to do so. These same degrading chemicals make their way into our food and water supply. And this is just some of the terrible impacts plastic has on us. When it comes to the environment, we’ve all seen devastating images of sea creatures tangled in plastic. We’ve also seen what climate change does to the planet, a concept that plastic waste contributes to. How you can get involved Whether you’re an eco newbie on the hunt for a few single-use plastics to avoid or are a more seasoned sustainable warrior, there are many ways you can feel inspired to live a plastic-free life. Here are just a few to get you started. Switch to reusable coffee cups If you haven’t already, it’s time to ditch those disposable cups and opting for reusable versions. Ours is the perfect option for your favourite morning beverage. Refuse pre-packed fruit and vegetables Buying fruits and veggies wrapped in plastic packaging is convenient but bad for the environment. Avoid single-use plastics and refuse pre-packed groceries. Get some reusable straws Sometimes a straw is the perfect accompaniment to a nice, cool drink. But if the straw’s plastic, you’re better off going without. The solution? Carry a reusable straw with you so you can refuse plastic. Replace plastic bags with a tote Choosing to refuse single-use plastics is a bold and effective step to a better planet. Plastic shopping bags should be instantly cut from your life. Always carry a reusable tote with you. Say no to plastic water bottles Single-use plastic water bottles have no place in today’s world. A simple and sustainable solution is carrying a reusable flask with you. Easy. Effortless. Eco. Head to the Plastic Free July website to find out more ways you can help.
Eco
What is World Environment Day and how can you get involved?
From last summer’s devastating bushfires to our increasingly polluted seas, there’s no denying the impact our actions have on the planet. That’s why we all need to take steps to reduce our footprint and live a more sustainable life this World Environment Day and beyond. From choosing bamboo as our hero fabric to giving back to an array of causes, we always keep sustainability at the forefront of our minds. But before we look at everything we’re doing to be greener here at Boody, we thought we’d take a look at what World Environment Day is and how it's being celebrated this year. What is World Environment Day? One of the most important days across the globe for environmental action, World Environment Day engages citizens, businesses, the government and celebrities to turn their attention to pressing environmental issues. Since 1974, World Environment Day has been celebrated annually on the 5th of June. World Environment Day recognises glocal change requires a global community and it offers a platform for positive change. It pushes us to rethink the way we consume, for businesses to develop greener models, for governments to protect wild spaces and so much more. It needs all of our support. World Environment Day is hosted by a different country each year, in which official celebrations occur. This year’s host is Colombia in partnership with Germany. But in a time when so many of us are physically distancing and staying inside, even more people will be celebrating digitally across the world. Sign up to stay in the loop. This year, the theme for World Environment Day is biodiversity – an urgent concern for our planet. Following the devastating bushfires in Australia, the US and Brazil, locusts infestations across East Africa and the current global pandemic we’re facing, the interdependence we as humans have on the webs of life has never been clearer. What is biodiversity? Biodiversity speaks to the variety of life on Earth, including the 8 million plant and animal species that roam our beautiful planet. It also speaks to the ecosystems that house them, and the genetic diversity among them. Biodiversity is an intricate and interdependent web, in which each member plays a significant role, drawing and contributing in ways that may not even be visible to the eye. The bountiful foods we eat, the air we breathe, the water we drink and the weather that makes our planet habitable all come from nature. How you can get involved We all have a role to play in ending biodiversity loss and preserving nature. We must reconsider what and how we consume to be the change we want to see in the world. To do this, there are three ways we can all participate – even if we’re socially-distancing or self-isolating at home. Learn While we’re all spending more time at home, it’s a great opportunity to learn more about the Earth’s wild species and habitats. Use the time to reflect on the role that natures plays in our lives and the ways in which we can champion positive change. Share In the run-up to World Environment Day, UNEP opened conversation threads in eight languages across its social media channels. They want you to tell them why it’s time #ForNature. This is the perfect opportunity for all of us to share what we love about our world and spread the word. Act Following World Environment Day and in the run-up to the 5th UN Environment Assembly in 2021 – when the world’s environment ministers will set global priorities – we are all being asked to act on the knowledge we have gained to help end biodiversity loss and the climate crisis. Here are some resources for you to learn about how you can protect nature. Join Earth School and take part in the 30 environmental lessons hosted by TED-Ed and curated by some of the best nature teachers in the world. 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Eco
How to create a sustainable home one room at a time
It’s April. Which means it’s nearly Earth Day again. Except, this year we’d hardly notice because we have so much else going on. Social distancing. Self-isolating. Trying to keep our spirits high during a time filled with so much uncertainty. But there are some positives that have come from this unprecedented time. You might have seen the satellite photos displaying how the COVID-19-led lockdowns across the world have lowered global emissions and giving Mother Nature a well-earned rest. What better way to celebrate Earth Day later this month? And, while we spend more time at home than ever before, we find ourselves finding time to focus on things we rarely have time for. Our physical and mental wellbeing. Creative hobbies and outlets. Spending time with loved ones we live with, albeit at a distance. Another thing we might find we have extra time for at home is catching up with some bits around the home we’ve put off. And, seeing as it’s Earth Day later this month, what better time to figure out how to create a sustainable home one room at a time? Sarah Pelham, the Beauty & Wellness Expert for Bookwell, offers some of these handy tips which we hope help to take your mind off the never-ending stream of news right now. Over to you, Sarah. Make your home eco-friendly Sustainable living is something that’s becoming more and more important to a lot of us, and we might have already started to make simple lifestyle changes such as walking more rather than using the car, or taking our own reusable shopping bags with us when we head out. And that’s great! But it’s time we all went a little bit further; it’s time we start shifting from a sustainable lifestyle to a sustainable house. Eco homes can massively minimise our impact on the environment. And don’t worry – creating eco-friendly homes isn’t quite as daunting as it sounds! There are lots of ‘basic’ changes you can make instantly, such as swapping out incandescent bulbs for LED lighting or getting a recycling bin, for example. But if you’re keen to delve into the world of eco-homes, even more, there are lots more ways that you can make a difference, making positive changes around your home, one room at a time. Here’s a bit of room-by-room inspiration to get you started: Bathroom National Geographic estimates that 91% of plastic isn’t recycled. This is why to have a truly sustainable bathroom, it’s best to try and avoid products that are made of, or are packaged in, plastic. Here are some great plastic-free bathroom alternatives to get you started. With bathrooms often being warm and steamy from a hot bath or shower, they’re the perfect environment for germs to thrive. Cleaning a bathroom is never a pleasant job, and many of us automatically choose the strongest cleaning solutions to make sure we kill any nasties lying around. Unfortunately, these chemical-filled cleaners get flushed away, filtered, and are back in the water supply… even if some chemicals still remain. Instead, try to use natural cleaning products. You can even make some yourself using white vinegar, lemon juice, and baking soda. Kitchen One of the best ways to get the ball rolling on an eco kitchen is to invest. Invest in high-quality cookware and durable plates and bowls, rather than always selecting the cheapest options. Why? Because investing in quality means investing in sustainability. High-quality cookware and dishes are more likely to withstand frequent use and washing, and less likely to deteriorate or break from everyday use. Cookware that lasts for years can significantly reduce demand for manufacturing, and all the byproducts of manufacturing such as energy, water, and fuel. If you’re not quite a dab hand in the kitchen, you may want to look away now. Believe it or not, cooking at home is actually one of the best ways to create a sustainable kitchen! Pre-packaged ready meals have probably done more travelling than you and me combined. Each step of the process will usually be handled at a different facility, really clocking up those food miles. Cooking from scratch not only means you can reduce your carbon footprint, but you can also be sure that the ingredients have been sourced sustainably. Don’t forget to use green kitchen appliances, too. Bedroom Could your bedroom do with a lick of paint? If you’re redecorating, try to use eco-friendly paint that’s much better for the environment (and for your own health, too!). Look for ‘low VOC’ or ‘zero VOC’ paints, which have fewer volatile organic compounds that can be released into the air. Low VOC paints typically have less than 50g per litre, while zero VOC paints have less than 5g per litre. It’s always best to check the labels to know for sure, but as a general rule of thumb, flat latex paints that are light in colour usually have lower VOCs than glossy, oil-based paints. If you’ve chosen cotton sheets for your bedroom, good for you. You probably know that cotton is a pretty good choice for a sustainable bedroom. But it’s not the best choice. The problem with cotton is that fertilisers and pesticides are often used in the farming processes, which aren’t great for the planet. If you’re looking to make a quick and simple swap, switch to organic bamboo sheets, which look and feel really similar. Bamboo holds the world record for the fastest-growing plant at a rate of 91cm per day, so there’s always a constant, renewable source. Here’s some more benefits of bamboo. Living Room Think the perfect couch doesn’t exist? Think again. Steve Jobs’ wife Laurene Powell once said that it took the Apple Co-Founder eight years to decide on a couch, but we think it’s much easier to find the right one… especially if you look at sustainable options. A sustainable couch really can be whatever you make it. You could choose second-hand furniture, with absolutely no new resources used, or you could buy new. When buying new, look for couches made using sustainable wood (with FSC or AFS certification), or try to buy from a local manufacturer. Need new furniture for your living room? Here’s a bit of a crazy idea, but it’s one that could help you create a unique space and the sustainable living room of your dreams. Instead of buying new, how about trying to build new furniture from items already in your home? This is also ideal now it’s hard to get out much! For example, you could create a side table by stacking books, or a box shelf from an old desk drawer. Upcycling is a fantastic way to minimise the amount we send to landfill and create one-of-a-kind spaces. And best of all, you’ll be reducing the piles of clutter that you just don’t know what to do with! There’s no rush The thought of what could happen if we all carry on as we are is terrifying, but the truth is that the world isn’t going to implode tomorrow. Don’t try and implement all these changes at once, or you may end up feeling overwhelmed and wanting to give up. And that’s not doing the planet any good! Instead, approach sustainable living from a ‘one room at a time’ perspective. By working in bite-sized, manageable chunks, you’ll soon find that you’ve created an eco-home that really makes a difference. And right now, this could be time well-spent indeed. Sarah Pelham is the Beauty & Wellness Expert for Bookwell.com.au, an online platform for instant bookings for hair, nails, beauty & massage appointments. For nearly four years Sarah has worked closely with hundreds of salon owners within the beauty and wellness industries. She has her finger on the pulse of new trends in this growing market.
