We always knew that we wanted to reach beyond our beloved Australia with our merch store. As our small business grew, we started searching for a production partner for Canada and the United States. Before we share the 5 reasons why we chose econscious, let’s start with a little bit of background.
SEE MORE: Browse our range of sustainable tops made by econscious →
SEE MORE: Go grocery shopping in style with our econscious grocery bags for cheese lovers →
Our impact on our planet
As a people, we are becoming increasingly conscious of our impact on the world in which we live. In fact, many of us have become more conscious of where the items we consume on a daily basis come from. And how they are made.
Furthermore, we are becoming more aware of the damaging effects of the fast fashion business on the environment. As well as the horrific working conditions that individuals in factories all over the world are forced to endure.
So, where does our production partner fit in all of this? Continue reading to find out why choosing econscious was the easiest decision we’ve made.
1. Transparency at every level
At The Cheese Wanker, we firmly believe that information belongs to the people. For too long, major corporations have operated under a shroud of secrecy with complete lack of transparency and accountability.
From the cotton farms to the garment supplier, econscious can account for every step of their manufacturing process. Over the years, they have built relationships with farmers, yarn spinners, fabric suppliers and dye houses. As a result, they can ensure that all the materials are produced and handled at the highest standard.
Equally important is the ability to ensure that the factories actively engage in upholding the econscious Workplace Code of Conduct. Significantly, this addresses important social compliance standards designed to ensure a safe and hygienic workplace is provided.
2. Fair working conditions for all employees
Actually, the two main factories that produce the basic t-shirts and grocery bags that we sell are based in Mexico and Pakistan. In both cases, econscious chose the location based on quality and market parameters.
Consequently, they are able to source a product that meets the highest international standards of social, environmental and organic compliance. Moreover, they ensure that the workers have a sustainable workload and operate in a safe working environment.
Also, it goes without saying that their factories are completely free of child labour and forced labour. And, all of this while offering a finished product that makes economic sense for all parties.
3. Their design ethos
Transparency and fairness are very important. But so is the quality of the end product. Their blank t-shirts are exceptionally well-made. They are made to last and give outstanding comfort and softness. Additionally, the shirts are available in a spectrum of colours and come in a variety of long and short sleeved styles for both men and women.
In addition to apparel, econscious also produces a variety of reusable shopping totes and grocery bags that are a great alternative to plastic bags. They’re made to last through multiple grocery shopping excursions thanks to features like reinforced stitching, and they come in a variety of shapes and colours.
4. 100% certified organic cotton
Every single top and grocery bag that econscious produce is made with 100% organic cotton.
“Our raw cotton comes exclusively from certified organic farms”
But why does it matter? Let’s talk about the differences between organic and conventional farming? Effectively, the major differences are in the following categories: seeds, weed control, soil, water, and harvest practice. Indeed, organic agricultural practices prohibit the use of chemical pesticides, fertilizers, and genetically modified seeds (GMO seeds).
5. 1% For The Planet
Finally, let’s have a look at sustainability and environmentalism. The team at econscious believe that by leveraging our collective resources, we can all play a role in the global movement towards a more sustainable and just society.
As members of 1% For The Planet, they donate 1% of every retail sale to support the work of environmental non-profits organizations. In 2002, Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews, founder of Blue Ribbon Flies, created 1% For The Planet and started a global movement.
“The intent of 1% For The Planet is to help fund these diverse environmental organizations so that collectively they can be a more powerful source in solving the world’s problems.”
Now you know why we chose econscious
Thank you for reading our 5 Reasons Why We Chose econscious. We hope that you will support us and our production partners in our attempts to create a retail industry that is transparent, ethical and sustainable.
Do you have any questions about our supply chain? Please drop us a comment below.
SEE MORE: Browse our range of sustainable tops made by econscious →
SEE MORE: Go grocery shopping in style with our econscious grocery bags for cheese lovers →
