West Activewear
Our Rating: 3 Stars - It's a start
Price: $ $ $ $
Country of origin: Australia
Official brand website: Visit
West Activewear is a brand that is making strides towards sustainability. With an environment rating of ‘it’s a start’, the brand is taking steps to minimize its climate impact and reduce the use of chemicals, water, and wastewater in production. One of the key aspects of their sustainability efforts is their use of a high proportion of eco-friendly materials, including recycled materials. By incorporating these materials into their products, West Activewear is working towards reducing their carbon footprint and promoting a circular economy.
However, there is no evidence that West Activewear is actively minimizing textile waste during the manufacturing process. Textile waste is a significant issue in the fashion industry, with millions of tons of fabric ending up in landfills each year. While it is commendable that West Activewear is using eco-friendly materials, they should also focus on implementing strategies to reduce textile waste, such as implementing recycling programs or finding innovative ways to repurpose and upcycle fabric scraps.
When it comes to energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, there is no evidence that West Activewear is taking specific steps to reduce these impacts. The fashion industry is known for its high energy consumption and significant contribution to greenhouse gas emissions. Brands that prioritize sustainability should strive to minimize their energy use and invest in renewable energy sources to reduce their carbon footprint.
While there is room for improvement in these areas, West Activewear’s use of eco-friendly materials is a step in the right direction. By opting for these materials, they are reducing their reliance on harmful chemicals and promoting the conservation of natural resources. This is especially important considering the fashion industry’s impact on water usage, pollution, and the depletion of ecosystems.
When it comes to West Activewear’s labor practices, their rating is ‘not good enough’. There is no evidence that the brand has a Code of Conduct in place to ensure fair labor practices throughout its supply chain. Additionally, their sourcing from countries with extreme risk of labor abuse raises concerns about worker exploitation. It is crucial for brands to prioritize worker welfare and ensure fair wages and safe working conditions for all individuals involved in the production process.
At the same time, it is worth noting that West Activewear traces most of its supply chain. This is an important step towards transparency and accountability. By mapping out their supply chain, they can identify any potential labor or environmental issues and take appropriate actions to address them.
However, there is no evidence to suggest that West Activewear ensures the payment of a living wage in its supply chain. This is an essential aspect of labor rights and sustainable practices. Brands should strive to ensure that all workers involved in the production process receive fair compensation that allows them to meet their basic needs and live a dignified life.
Overall, West Activewear is making progress towards sustainability, but there is still work to be done. By focusing on minimizing textile waste, reducing energy use and greenhouse gas emissions, and prioritizing fair labor practices, they can further improve their environmental and labor ratings. It is encouraging to see their use of eco-friendly materials, but they should continue to innovate and explore new ways to enhance their sustainability efforts.
As consumers, we play a vital role in supporting brands that prioritize sustainability. By choosing to purchase from companies like West Activewear, we can encourage the fashion industry to adopt more sustainable practices and contribute to a greener, more ethical future.
