Divine
Rating: Good
Price: $ $ $ $
Location: Australia
Divine is a brand that prioritizes sustainability in its production process. With a focus on reducing its climate impact, Divine chooses to make its products by hand, avoiding the carbon emissions associated with mass production. By using low impact non-toxic dyes in all of its products, the brand ensures that its use of chemicals does not harm the environment.
In addition to its efforts in reducing climate impact, Divine takes measures to minimize textile waste. The brand reuses its offcuts, ensuring that no material goes to waste. This commitment to reducing waste is commendable, as textile waste is a significant contributor to environmental degradation.
When it comes to packaging, Divine makes use of compostable materials. By opting for compostable packaging, the brand ensures that its products are not only environmentally friendly during production but also after they are used. This choice is not only practical but also aligns with the brand’s commitment to sustainability.
The labor rating of Divine is described as “it’s a start.” While the brand’s final stage of production takes place in Australia, a low-risk country for labor abuse, there is no evidence to suggest that Divine ensures the payment of a living wage in its supply chain. However, the fact that the brand traces most of its supply chain and visits its suppliers regularly demonstrates a degree of transparency and commitment to ethical labor practices.
When it comes to animal welfare, Divine’s rating is “good.” The brand does not use fur, leather, wool, down, exotic animal skin, or angora in its products, showing an ethical stance against the use of animal-derived materials. However, Divine does use exotic animal hair, which raises questions about the sourcing of this material and its impact on animal welfare. While the brand’s commitment to avoiding certain animal products is commendable, it is important to consider the broader implications of using exotic animal hair.
Overall, Divine receives a rating of “Good” in terms of its sustainability practices. The brand’s focus on reducing climate impact through handmade production and the use of low impact non-toxic dyes is commendable. The reuse of offcuts helps minimize textile waste, further contributing to sustainable practices. The choice of compostable packaging shows a commitment to environmental responsibility beyond the product itself.
However, Divine’s labor rating could be improved by ensuring the payment of a living wage throughout its supply chain. While the brand’s efforts to trace its supply chain and visit suppliers demonstrate a level of transparency, the lack of evidence regarding fair wages raises concerns about the brand’s commitment to ethical labor practices.
Additionally, the use of exotic animal hair in Divine’s products prompts further consideration of animal welfare. The brand’s avoidance of certain animal products is commendable, but the sourcing and impact of exotic animal hair should be carefully examined to ensure ethical practices.
In conclusion, Divine is a brand that values sustainability and strives to incorporate it into its production processes. With a focus on reducing climate impact, minimizing waste, and promoting ethical labor and animal welfare, the brand demonstrates a commitment to responsible practices. However, there is room for improvement in terms of fair wages and the sourcing of exotic animal hair. By addressing these areas, Divine can further enhance its overall sustainability rating and continue to be a leader in the industry.
