Adam Taubenfligel, the author and co-founder of denim brand Triarchy, has been focusing on developing sustainable denim that does not rely on plastic-based materials. Recognizing the environmental impact of microplastics shedding from synthetic stretch jeans, Taubenfligel and his team worked with their denim mill to create a plastic-free denim material in 2022. This not only changed their manufacturing process but also opened the door for further innovations beyond the fashion industry.
Taubenfligel believes that true impact lies in circularity, which involves considering the complete lifecycle of a garment and responsibly managing its disposal. The plastic-free denim material developed by Triarchy is designed to biodegrade in less than two years and improve soil health. The material was even found to be beneficial as compost for a regenerative farm in Italy, contributing to water retention and soil health while helping grow tomatoes. This unexpected outcome highlighted the power of like-minded individuals coming together to achieve common sustainability goals.
Driving towards a more sustainable future requires a collective vision and commitment to innovative solutions. Brands navigating their sustainability journeys must stay dedicated to evolving their practices, guided by the belief that sustainability is not just an aspiration but a necessity. Some valuable lessons from Taubenfligel’s experience include collaborating with like-minded organizations, embracing innovation and creativity, designing products with circularity in mind, educating stakeholders, and tracking progress to ensure accountability and continuous improvement.
Partnerships with organizations that share similar values and bring complementary strengths can accelerate progress towards circularity. Promoting a culture of creativity and innovation within a company can lead to novel solutions that challenge conventional thinking. Designing products with circularity in mind, incorporating principles like durability and recyclability, is essential for ensuring sustainability and resilience. Effective communication and engagement with stakeholders are crucial for building support and momentum for circular initiatives, both internally and externally.
Measuring and tracking progress against clear metrics and targets is key to evaluating the impact of circularity efforts and driving continuous improvement. Transparency and accountability throughout the process can help build trust and credibility with stakeholders. By following these lessons and recommendations, companies can successfully navigate the journey towards circularity, driving positive environmental and social impact while unlocking new opportunities for innovation and growth.
Forbes Business Council, a networking organization for business owners and leaders, emphasizes the importance of collaboration, innovation, and accountability in achieving circularity. By embracing partnerships, fostering creativity, designing with circularity in mind, educating stakeholders, and tracking progress, companies can work towards sustainable practices that benefit the environment and society while driving growth and innovation.
