Sustainability means being aware of our actions, and taking responsibility for these actions.  Sustainability is about meeting the needs of present generations without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. The landscape of consciousness is rapidly changing in the world, at the dawn of the 21st Century, where the values of healthy living, clean air, clean water, minimization of resources, and energy efficiency are integral to a new paradigm.  But climate change, caused by carbon emissions from use of fossil fuels, is the most serious environmental issue facing the world. Fossil fuel use for factories, offices, homes and transport is the largest source of global warming pollution. The growth of eco products across a spectrum of industries is one way to reduce our impact on the planet, and as a pioneer of sustainability in fashion, our eco products and brand ethos clearly show how it is possible.

Sustainability in fashion. The phrase feels like a total contradiction. We are living in an age of throw away fashion. Cheap mass produced garments, feeding a cycle based on fashion trend. Cheap price wars, mass production off shore in negligent working conditions, mono cropping and lots of waste are just some of the characteristics that spring to mind when describing the fashion industry. Fashion is fashion and its ongoing reinvention isn’t going to change, that’s one of its key characteristics. But re-use, recycling, and renewable energy use can make a difference.

Slingfings is pioneering a sustainable approach to fashion. We’re challenging the fashion industry, turning things around a bit, sneaking in through the back door in our quest to promote sustainability. The bottom line is people will always want to buy beautiful things. We believe it is possible to create beautiful things in an environmentally friendly and sustainable way, without compromising on quality. Eco products which are funky, fashionable and made to last.

It won’t be long before corporations will be penalized and fined for not producing eco products or services. They will be legally bound to produce eco products or services with regard for the planet, and its inhabitants. Money should not be the only motivator and designers have a responsibility to take care.

What it comes down to is corporate responsibility. The buying public is becoming more discerning. People are seeing sense in ethical and sustainable consumerism, and will buy with this in mind if we give them the choice.