In a world increasingly concerned about environmental impact, understanding the language of sustainability is crucial. From materials and processes to certifications and climate accreditation, navigating the terminology can be daunting. ELLE has compiled insights from designers, activists, and climate experts to demystify common terms and initiatives in the clothing industry.
Materials and Processes
Biodegradable: Items that can naturally break down through microbial action.
Manmade Cellulosic Fibers: Derived from plant and tree pulp, these fibers require environmentally responsible manufacturing processes, such as closed-loop systems.
Natural Fiber: Composed of materials sourced from plants, vegetables, or animals.
Organic Fiber: Produced without chemical treatments or synthetic additives, certified by third-party verification.
PFAS: Per- and polyfluoroalkyl chemicals, known as "forever chemicals" due to their persistence in the environment.
Post-Consumer Material: Discarded materials that have reached the end of their life cycle.
Pre-Consumer Material: Waste materials identified during manufacturing, reintegrated before final use.
Recycled Materials: Incorporate discarded fabrics, diverting them from landfills.
Synthetic Fiber: Non-biodegradable fibers made from manufactured chemicals.
Upcycled: Process of repurposing discarded products.
Certifications and Climate Accreditation
B Corp Certification: Recognizes businesses meeting social and environmental criteria, including transparency and environmental progress.
Carbon Emissions: CO2 released into the atmosphere from human activities.
Climate Beneficial™: Supports regenerative farming practices to combat climate change.
Climate Neutral: Achieving net-zero carbon emissions.
Carbon Offsets: Environmental actions to compensate for carbon emissions.
Circular Economy: Promotes product longevity and renewable resources, challenging the linear economy model.
Fair Trade Certified: Ensures fair wages and working conditions for workers.
Forest Stewardship Council Certification: Verifies responsible forestry practices.
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): Comprehensive certification for organic textiles, covering production from seed to supply chain.
Integrity Grown™: Monitors and ranks regenerative farming practices.
OEKO-TEX®: Certification testing for harmful substances in textiles.
One Percent for the Planet: Donates one percent of profits to environmental organizations.
Organic Content Standard: Traces organic content within fibers.
Recycled Content Standard: Verifies recycled materials composition.
Regenerative Agriculture: Focuses on soil health and sustainability in farming practices.
Renewable Resources: Economically valuable resources that renew themselves.
Soil Health: Vitality and functionality of soil within ecosystems.
USDA National Organic Program: Enforces standards for organically grown agriculture. /BGNES