Parade
Rating: Good
Price: $ $ $ $
Location: United States
Parade, a leading brand in sustainable fashion, is making waves in the industry with its strong commitment to the environment and labor practices. With an environment rating of ‘good,’ Parade goes above and beyond to use a high proportion of eco-friendly materials, including recycled materials. This not only reduces its climate impact but also limits the amount of chemicals, water, and wastewater used in production.
While Parade’s commitment to using eco-friendly materials is commendable, there is no evidence to suggest that the brand is actively taking steps to reduce energy use and greenhouse gas emissions. However, its use of sustainable materials certainly goes a long way in minimizing its overall environmental footprint.
When it comes to labor practices, Parade’s rating is ‘it’s a start.’ The brand’s factory is audited and reported through the Business Social Compliance Initiative Code of Conduct (BSCI), ensuring that it meets certain social compliance standards. However, Parade sources its final stage of production from countries with an extreme risk of labor abuse, raising questions about the working conditions of its garment workers.
While Parade traces most of its supply chain, it is unclear whether the brand ensures the payment of a living wage in its supply chain. This is an important factor to consider in the fashion industry, as many garment workers are often underpaid and subjected to poor working conditions.
It’s worth noting that Parade’s products are generally free of animal materials, with the exception of silk. Therefore, it is not applicable to rate the brand’s impact on animals. However, in terms of environmental and labor scores, Parade receives an overall rating of ‘Good.’
The Importance of Sustainable Materials
Parade’s use of eco-friendly materials is a significant step towards a more sustainable fashion industry. By using recycled materials and minimizing the use of chemicals, water, and wastewater in production, Parade is actively reducing its environmental impact.
Eco-friendly materials have a lower carbon footprint compared to conventional materials. By opting for these materials, Parade is contributing to the fight against climate change and promoting a more sustainable future for the fashion industry.
Furthermore, the use of sustainable materials also reduces the amount of chemicals and water used in production. This has a direct positive impact on the environment, as it minimizes pollution and conserves precious natural resources.
The Need for Strong Labor Practices
While Parade’s labor rating is currently at a starting point, it is crucial for the brand to address the working conditions of its garment workers. Ensuring fair and safe working conditions, as well as payment of a living wage, is essential for the ethical production of clothing.
By sourcing its final stage of production from countries with an extreme risk of labor abuse, Parade is exposed to potential ethical concerns. It is important for the brand to actively monitor its supply chain and take steps to address any labor issues that may arise.
Transparency in the supply chain is key to ensuring that workers are treated fairly and that labor standards are upheld. Parade’s commitment to tracing most of its supply chain is a positive step, but the brand should strive for full transparency across all stages of production.
The Overall Verdict
Parade is making strides in the sustainable fashion industry with its commitment to eco-friendly materials and traceability in the supply chain. However, there is room for improvement, particularly in terms of energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, and labor practices.
As a consumer, it is important to support brands that prioritize sustainability and ethical practices. By choosing to purchase from brands like Parade, we can encourage the fashion industry to become more environmentally conscious and socially responsible.
Parade’s ‘Good’ overall rating demonstrates its progress in these areas, but there is still work to be done. It is our responsibility as consumers to hold brands accountable and push for further improvements in the fashion industry’s sustainability efforts.
