BITE
Our Rating: 4 Stars - Good
Price: $ $ $ $
Country of origin: Sweden
Official brand website: Visit
Sustainability is a hot topic in today’s world, and brands like BITE are leading the way in creating eco-friendly and ethical products. BITE’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its ‘good’ environmental rating. The brand strives to use a high proportion of eco-friendly materials, such as Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) cotton. This not only reduces its carbon footprint but also promotes the use of organic and sustainable farming practices.
In addition to its material choices, BITE takes pride in making its products by hand. This hands-on approach not only ensures quality craftsmanship but also significantly reduces its climate impact. By choosing to produce items manually, the brand minimizes the use of machinery and electricity, resulting in lower carbon emissions.
While BITE excels in its environmental practices, its labour rating falls short of expectations. The brand’s final stage of production takes place in Europe, which is considered a low to medium risk region for labour abuse. However, there is no evidence that BITE has a formal Code of Conduct in place to protect its workers and ensure fair labor practices.
Safety is another area where BITE’s performance is lacking. The brand does not provide any evidence of investigating and reporting safety incidents within its operations. Transparency and accountability are essential in creating a safe working environment, and BITE needs to address this aspect to improve its labour rating.
On the positive side, BITE traces most of its supply chain, including all of the final stage of production. This is a crucial step towards transparency and ensures that the brand has control over its supply chain practices. However, there is no evidence to suggest that BITE ensures fair payment of a living wage to workers throughout its supply chain. Fair wages are fundamental in promoting social justice and reducing income inequality.
In terms of animal welfare, BITE has a ‘good’ rating. The brand abstains from using fur, leather, down, exotic animal skin, or angora, all of which are associated with cruelty towards animals. BITE opts for alternative materials like exotic animal hair and peace silk, which are more sustainable and ethical choices.
BITE also takes a stand against supporting the practice of mulesing by sourcing wool from non-mulesed sheep. Mulesing is a controversial procedure carried out on sheep, and brands that refuse to participate in this practice contribute to the overall well-being of these animals.
Overall, BITE has a ‘good’ rating when it comes to sustainability. The brand’s commitment to using eco-friendly materials and avoiding animal cruelty is commendable. However, there is room for improvement in terms of its labour practices, particularly the establishment of a Code of Conduct and ensuring the payment of a living wage. By addressing these areas, BITE can further solidify its position as a sustainable and ethical brand, leading the way for others in the industry.
