In recent years, sustainability has become a significant concern for consumers and industries alike. The fashion industry, including sportswear, has been under scrutiny for its environmental impact, especially for the use of synthetic fibres .
As athletes and sports enthusiasts increasingly seek eco-friendly options, the demand for sustainable sportswear has surged. This blog will guide you through the process of making sustainable sportswear, from material selection to manufacturing practices and beyond.
Understanding Sustainable Sportswear
Sustainable sportswear aims to minimise environmental impact while maintaining functionality, durability, and comfort. It involves using eco-friendly materials, ethical manufacturing processes, and practices that reduce waste and carbon footprint.
Why Choose Sustainable Sportswear?
- Environmental Impact: Traditional sportswear production often involves significant water usage, chemical treatments, and non-biodegradable materials, leading to pollution and waste.
- Health Benefits: Sustainable materials are typically free from harmful chemicals, making them safer for your skin.
- Ethical Considerations: Sustainable brands often ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for their workers.
- Performance: Modern sustainable fabrics offer excellent performance, including moisture-wicking, breathability, and durability.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Sustainable Sportswear
1. Selecting Eco-Friendly Materials
The foundation of sustainable sportswear is the material used. Here are just a few eco-friendly options to consider. If you are looking for a more detailed guide, please see our Sustainable Fabric Guide
Organic cotton is grown without harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilisers. It uses less water than conventional cotton and is biodegradable. Look for certifications like GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard). However, note that cotton isn’t great and drying so when the fibre wicks sweat, it holds onto this for hours, making the fibres saturated
b. Recycled Polyester
Made from recycled plastic bottles and other post-consumer waste, recycled polyester reduces landfill waste and the demand for virgin polyester, which is derived from petroleum. The issue with this fibre is it’s only recycled once and the fibres will end up in the ocean and the garment in landfill for decades. You are also wearing synthetic fibres against the skin.
c. Bamboo
It’s a fast-growing, renewable resource. Bamboo fabric is soft, breathable, and naturally antibacterial. However, ensure the manufacturing process is eco-friendly, as some methods can be chemical-intensive.
d. Hemp
Hemp is a highly sustainable crop requiring minimal water and no pesticides. It’s durable, breathable, and biodegradable.
e. Tencel (Lyocell)
Tencel is made from sustainably harvested wood pulp, primarily eucalyptus. The production process is closed-loop, meaning nearly all the solvents are reused, minimising environmental impact.
2. Sustainable Dyeing and Printing Techniques
Traditional dyeing processes can be harmful to the environment due to water waste and chemical runoff. Consider these sustainable alternatives when you source fabrics and factories to make sure they are following environmental practices:
a. Natural Dyes
Derived from plants, insects, and minerals, natural dyes are biodegradable and non-toxic. However, they may have limitations in colour variety and consistency.
b. Low-Impact Dyes
These dyes require less water and energy and contain fewer harmful chemicals. Look for OEKO-TEX certification to ensure they meet environmental and safety standards.
c. Digital Printing
Digital printing uses less water and produces less waste than conventional screen printing. It allows for precise application of dye, reducing excess.
3. Ethical and Sustainable Manufacturing Practices
a. Fair Labor Practices
Ensure that the manufacturing process involves fair wages, safe working conditions, and no child labour. Certifications like Fair Trade and SA8000 can guide you and ask for audits that should be up to date and completed by a recognised institution such as a Sedex audit completed by Intertek.
b. Local Production
Manufacturing locally reduces the carbon footprint associated with transportation and supports the local economy. Remember that the labour is only part of the manufacturing process so keep in mind where the fabrics, trims and components are travelling from to be produced too.
c. Energy Efficiency
Look for factories that use renewable energy sources and have energy-efficient practices. ISO 50001 certification can indicate commitment to energy management but some factories are going further by installing solar panels, ground heat source pumps and offset their carbon at the end of the year.
d. Waste Reduction
Implement practices to minimise waste during production, such as pattern optimization and recycling scrap materials. Don’t order more trims and labels than required and order garments based on utilising all the fabric rather than a nice round number.
4. Designing for Longevity and Functionality
Sustainable sportswear should be durable and functional to reduce the frequency of replacement and waste. Something that lasts 2-3 times longer than a cheap, low quality garment is much better for the environment, requiring a replacement less frequently.
a. Timeless Design
Avoid fashion fads and trends that may quickly go out of style. Focus on classic, versatile designs that remain fashionable over time. This applies to colour too.
b. Durability
Choose materials and construction methods that enhance the durability of the garment. Reinforced stitching and high-quality fabrics can prolong the life of sportswear. Buying something of quality usually allows the consumer to cherish the piece more and therefore love it and keep it longer.
c. Multi-Functionality
Design garments that can serve multiple purposes. For instance, a jacket that works for both casual wear and athletic activities. Keep the style classic and timeless.
5. Packaging and Distribution
a. Eco-Friendly Packaging
Use recycled and recyclable packaging materials. Avoid excessive packaging and consider biodegradable options. Don’t add swing tickets if they are not needed. These are the first things that get chopped off a garment and thrown away.
b. Carbon-Neutral Shipping
Offset the carbon emissions from shipping by investing in renewable energy projects or choosing carbon-neutral shipping options. Consider using a slower service that uses sustainable transport rather than speedier services that are less focussed on carbon footprint.
6. Educating Consumers
Transparency and consumer education are crucial for promoting sustainable sportswear. Only by doing this will the world wake up to what they are buying and how they can help the planet by purchasing considered products.
a. Product Labels
Clearly label products with information about the materials used, manufacturing processes, and sustainability certifications. Keep the wording simple and easy to digest and keep away from industry jargon that won’t be understood
b. Marketing
Use marketing to educate consumers about the benefits of sustainable sportswear and how to care for their garments to extend their lifespan. Education is king and will bring consumers onboard and spread the word to others.
c. Care Instructions
Provide detailed care instructions to help consumers maintain their sportswear, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Keep in mind that washing is the most harmful thing you can do to any garment as it strips fibres from the cloth. Try to use fibres that don’t hold and breed bacteria so wearers can wear the garment several times before they need to wash them.
7. Circular Economy Practices
Adopting a circular economy model ensures that products and materials are reused, repaired, and recycled, reducing waste and resource consumption.
a. Take-Back Programs
Offer programs where customers can return their old sportswear for recycling or upcycling. Make sure that the upcycling is sustainable and carbon neutral, otherwise were shipping garments around the world to upcycle but adding to the carbon footprint of the garment.
b. Repair Services
Provide repair services to extend the life of garments. This can include sewing repairs, patching, and replacing components like zippers. Perhaps ask your customers to do this using a local company and send photos that get entered to a monthly competition for the best repeir that month.
c. Upcycling
Find creative ways to repurpose old sportswear into new products, reducing waste and giving materials a second life.
Conclusion
Making sustainable sportswear is a multifaceted approach that involves careful consideration of materials, manufacturing practices, design, and consumer education. By focusing on these aspects, we can significantly reduce the environmental impact of sportswear while providing high-quality, functional, and stylish options for athletes and sports enthusiasts.
Adopting sustainable practices not only benefits the environment but also enhances brand reputation and meets the growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products. Whether you’re a designer, manufacturer, or consumer, every step towards sustainability counts and contributes to a healthier planet. Embrace the journey of sustainability in sportswear and be a part of the positive change.
If you are interested in sustainable sportswear, please get in touch now.
