Zilver
Our Rating: 4 Stars - Good
Price: $ $ $ $
Country of origin: United Kingdom
Official brand website: Visit
Introduction
Zilver is a sustainable brand that is making positive strides in the fashion industry. With a good environment rating and a commitment to using eco-friendly materials, Zilver is proving that fashion and sustainability can go hand in hand. In this article, we will take a closer look at Zilver’s practices and how they contribute to a more sustainable future.
Environment Rating
Zilver has garnered a ‘good’ environment rating, and for good reason. The brand utilizes a high proportion of eco-friendly materials, including cotton certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). This certification ensures that the cotton used in Zilver’s products meets strict environmental and social criteria, including the restriction of harmful chemicals and the promotion of fair working conditions.
Furthermore, Zilver takes pride in manufacturing its products locally, which helps to reduce its carbon footprint. By producing closer to home, Zilver not only minimizes transportation emissions but also supports the local economy. This commitment to local manufacturing showcases its dedication to sustainability at every step of the production process.
While Zilver’s use of eco-friendly materials is commendable, it is worth noting that there is no evidence of the brand minimizing packaging. Packaging waste is a significant contributor to environmental degradation, and as a sustainable brand, Zilver may want to explore ways to reduce its packaging footprint in the future.
Labor Rating
Zilver’s labor rating is ‘it’s a start.’ While the brand has made progress in ensuring ethical labor practices, there is room for improvement. Zilver’s final stage of production takes place in the UK and Italy, which are considered medium risk countries for labor abuse.
One area that Zilver can enhance is the implementation of a Code of Conduct. A Code of Conduct is a set of guidelines that outlines the brand’s expectations regarding labor conditions and worker rights. By establishing a Code of Conduct, Zilver can demonstrate its commitment to fair and ethical treatment of workers throughout its supply chain.
On the positive side, Zilver traces most of its supply chain and conducts audits on some of its suppliers. This level of traceability and oversight helps to ensure that labor standards are being met. However, it remains unclear whether Zilver ensures payment of a living wage in its supply chain. Guaranteeing a living wage to workers would demonstrate a higher level of commitment to fair labor practices.
Animal Rating
Zilver receives a ‘good’ animal rating for its mindful approach to animal welfare. The brand does not use fur, down, exotic animal skin, exotic animal hair, or angora in its products. Additionally, Zilver states that it sources wool from non-mulesed sheep. Mulesing is a painful procedure performed on sheep to prevent flystrike, and avoiding it signals Zilver’s commitment to animal welfare.
However, it is important to note that Zilver does use leather in some of its products. While leather is a natural and durable material, its production has ethical and environmental implications. Zilver may want to explore alternative materials or ensure that the leather it uses is sourced responsibly to align with its overall commitment to sustainability.
Conclusion
Zilver has established itself as a brand that prioritizes sustainability in the fashion industry. With a good environment rating and a commitment to using eco-friendly materials, Zilver sets a positive example for other brands to follow. While there is room for improvement in labor practices and packaging reduction, Zilver’s efforts to trace its supply chain and avoid animal cruelty are commendable.
As consumers, we have the power to support brands like Zilver that prioritize sustainable practices. By making mindful choices in our purchasing decisions, we can encourage more brands to embrace sustainability and work towards a better future for our planet and its inhabitants.
