The Most Important Questions To Ask When Investing In A Sustainable Material

Seeking sustainable materials is at the top of our agenda when it comes to purchasing clothes and accessories. But, with so many eco-friendly materials on the market, how can we know which brands to trust? You want to know if a product is truly sustainable and what contributes to this sustainability. As veterans of sustainable fashion, the Kula Bags team has put together a selection of questions to ask yourself before investing in eco fabrics. By questioning yourself and these companies, you can make the most Earth-friendly investment and know exactly what you're paying for.

Is this material made from recycled products?

We want to be contributing to a circular economy when possible. In a circular economy, everything in existence has a purpose or a second chance at life. It requires us to stop overloading the earth with waste and reuse and recycle. Seek items made using already existing materials.

 

For example, Kula bags use 100% recycled plastic bottles in our bag linings— we're giving these bottles a new purpose and reducing carbon emissions by using this eco-friendly material!

Is it a biodegradable fabric?

Another way to limit our impact on the Earth is by using biodegradable fabrics. Fabrics that naturally break down limit pollution and often have nutrients the Earth benefits from. Biodegradable materials and eco fabrics are of natural origins, which enables them to decompose and return to the Earth.

Investing in biodegradable, eco-friendly materials means you know your goods won't go on to have a harmful impact once you're finished with them.

Is this product strong and durable?

Sustainability isn't just about the materials you use; being sustainable means prioritising products with a long lifespan. We want to be able to use our goods continuously, over long periods. Before making your purchase, investigate the durability and longevity of the item. Is it made using strong fibres with secure fastenings? Will it be able to withstand your outdoor adventures and everyday uses? Look online for reviews and investigate how others are finding this product. Are people praising it for practicality or just aesthetics? Even if something looks nice and has sustainable on the label, achieving its purpose is the most important thing! Be an inquisitive buyer and try to learn everything you can before purchasing.

Does the business share its sourcing and manufacturing process?

Honesty is always the best policy, especially when it comes to sustainability! As a consumer, you have a right to know the how, where, and who is behind the manufacturing. You want to be shopping with businesses upfront about their ethos and practices, so you know they have nothing to hide! If their website doesn't disclose their materials and how they’re eco fabrics, it's unlikely this company is the sustainable business they claim to be. Don't waste your time sifting through information they don't want to share and shop with brands who put their story and environmental credentials front and centre.