How can sustainable design reduce waste in swimwear collections?

2 How to choose sustainable fabrics

When it comes to sustainable design, selecting fabrics that are eco-friendly and durable is essential. Recycled fabrics, such as Econyl, Repreve and Seaqual, are made from post-consumer or post-industrial waste, reducing the need for virgin materials and preventing waste from going to landfills or oceans. Natural fabrics, like Piñatex, Tencel and Cork, are made from renewable and biodegradable sources and can be composted at the end of their life. However, they may require more water and land to grow and may not be as stretchy or resistant as synthetic fabrics. Blended fabrics, such as Econyl and organic cotton or Repreve and hemp, aim to balance the performance and sustainability of the fabrics by enhancing their strength, elasticity and breathability. Yet, they may be harder to recycle or biodegrade than pure fabrics.

4 How to reduce waste in production and packaging

Sustainable design also involves minimizing the amount of waste generated during the production and packaging of swimwear. To achieve this, one can use zero-waste or low-waste patterns, such as Origamo, Make/Use and ZWD. Eco-friendly dyes and finishes, like indigo, cochineal and beeswax, can create unique and vibrant colors with less toxic chemicals and water consumption than conventional dyes and finishes. Additionally, recyclable or biodegradable packaging materials, like RePack, EcoEnclose and Noissue, can be used to reduce the amount of plastic and other non-biodegradable materials that end up in landfills or oceans.

5 How to educate and engage customers

The final element of sustainable design is to communicate and collaborate with customers, to raise awareness and encourage action. It is important to provide transparent and accurate information about the materials, processes, and certifications used for the swimwear, and to explain their environmental and social benefits in clear and simple language. Incentives and rewards should be offered for buying sustainable swimwear, returning old swimwear for recycling or repairing, or referring friends and family. Inviting feedback and participation from customers is also necessary; use their opinions, suggestions, and preferences to improve products and services. Encourage customers to join online or offline communities, events, or campaigns that promote sustainable swimwear and lifestyle; make the feedback and participation fun and meaningful, as well as acknowledge and appreciate their contributions.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?