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Stay Informed via our SANFT blog, where we share our latest updates, insights into sustainable fashion, and stories from the communities we work with.
Leading the Way: SANFT at United Nation's Zero Waste Future Panel
2024/8/12
Katrin Miyazawa Speaks at UN Event on Zero Waste Future
On August 12, 2024, our founder, Katrin Miyazawa, participated as a panel speaker at the UN event titled “Engaging Youth, Shaping a Zero Waste Future: Launch of the GWMO 2024 Youth Summary.” The event was organized to raise awareness about the waste pollution crisis and to showcase the vital role of youth in driving sustainable solutions.
During the panel discussion, “Youth Actions for Sustainable Solutions to Beat Waste Pollution,” Katrin shared insights into SANFT’s approach to sustainability. She highlighted our innovative use of circular coconut leather and organic cotton, materials chosen not only for their eco-friendly qualities but also for their ability to contribute to the fight against climate change by protecting soil and water sources.
Katrin also introduced her community-building efforts in Japan with NPO Happy Planet. She emphasized the importance of engaging local communities in sustainability initiatives and how Happy Planet has been fostering environmental awareness and action among young people in Japan.
The event, aligned with the theme of International Youth Day 2024, celebrated the transformative power of youth and digitalization in achieving sustainable development. Katrin’s participation underscored SANFT’s commitment to true sustainability and the importance of empowering young people to take action for a healthier, more sustainable future.
For more details, you can watch the full recording of the event here.
Stay tuned as we continue to push boundaries and contribute to global efforts in waste management and sustainable fashion!
Why Organic Cotton is the Future of Fashion
2024/8/1
Why Organic Cotton is the Future of Fashion
In the quest for truly sustainable and ethical fashion, organic cotton stands out as the only viable option for producing new clothes. While second-hand clothing also plays a crucial role in sustainability, when it comes to creating new garments, organic cotton is the clear choice. Here’s why.
Conventional Cotton’s Dark Side
Conventional cotton farming, which relies heavily on pesticides, has devastating consequences. These harmful chemicals not only damage the environment but also severely impact the health of farmers. In regions like India, where cotton farming is widespread, the use of pesticides has led to severe illnesses, fatalities, and even suicides among farmers who find themselves trapped in a cycle of debt. The soil, over time, becomes degraded and reliant on chemical inputs, making farmers increasingly dependent on pesticides that they can barely afford.
The Organic Advantage
Organic cotton, on the other hand, offers a way out of this destructive cycle. It’s grown without synthetic pesticides or fertilizers, which means it’s safer for farmers and better for the environment. Organic farming practices protect the soil’s natural microorganisms, ensuring long-term fertility and sustainability. Additionally, organic cotton farming requires less water, making it a more resource-efficient choice in a world where water scarcity is becoming a critical issue.
A Win-Win-Win Situation
Choosing organic cotton is not just a step towards sustainability; it’s a step towards fairness and health. It’s a win for the environment, as it reduces pollution and preserves natural resources. It’s a win for farmers, as it safeguards their health and livelihoods, freeing them from the debt traps associated with conventional cotton farming. And it’s a win for consumers, who get to enjoy high-quality, soft, and durable fabrics that align with their values.
The Future of Fashion
At SANFT, we believe that organic cotton is not just a trend—it’s the future of fashion. It’s the only real sustainable alternative to polyester and conventional cotton, which continue to harm our planet and the people who produce them. By choosing organic cotton, we’re choosing a path that prioritizes the well-being of the environment, the farmers, and you—the wearer. Together, we can make a difference, one garment at a time.
The Journey of Vegan Leather:
From Coconut Farms to Your Wardrobe
2024/7/1
In the search for sustainable alternatives to traditional leather, many vegan options on the market still fall short, primarily due to their reliance on plastics. At SANFT, we believe that fashion rooted in fossil fuels can't be truly sustainable, which is why we've turned to an innovative solution: coconut leather.
Why Coconut Leather?
Cow leather, while natural, comes with a hefty environmental and ethical cost. The production process involves a significant amount of toxic chemicals, uses large quantities of water and energy, and is far from cruelty-free. On the other hand, most vegan leathers, despite being animal-free, often include plastics, which are neither biodegradable nor eco-friendly. That’s where coconut leather stands out—it contains no plastics and can be composted, making it a genuinely sustainable option.
Turning Waste into Fashion
In India, where coconuts are abundant, farmers often discard the coconut water as they have no use for it. This waste not only goes unused but also acidifies and harms the soil. The coconut leather we use at SANFT ingeniously repurposes this waste water, along with other agricultural byproducts, transforming it into a circular, stylish fashion material. This process not only helps reduce environmental waste but also creates a product that’s both functional and sustainable.
A Truly Sustainable Choice
Our coconut leather is organic, fair trade, and crafted by local artisans, ensuring that every piece is made with care and respect for both the environment and the people involved in its production. By choosing coconut leather, we’re not just offering a beautiful and durable alternative to traditional and synthetic leathers—we’re contributing to a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry.
You can learn more about the skilled artisans behind this innovative material in our previous article.
At SANFT, we’re committed to pushing the boundaries of what sustainable fashion can be. Our coconut leather products are a testament to how waste can be transformed into something beautiful and kind to the planet.
Meet the Artisans Behind SANFT
2024/6/1
Behind every piece of SANFT clothing is a story of craftsmanship, care, and dedication. Our artisans are the heartbeat of our brand, bringing our sustainable vision to life with their expert skills and deep respect for the environment.
Crafted with Care
Each item at SANFT is carefully crafted by artisans who have honed their skills over decades—sometimes generations. These artisans take pride in their work, ensuring that every stitch is perfect and every piece is made to last. Their attention to detail is what makes SANFT’s products truly special.
Empowering Communities
By working with local artisans, SANFT helps to support and empower communities. Fair wages, safe working conditions, and a commitment to ethical practices are at the core of our relationships with these talented individuals. When you wear SANFT, you’re not just wearing a piece of clothing—you’re wearing a piece of their story.
Stay Tuned
Next year, we’re excited to bring you even closer to the artisans behind SANFT by uploading interview videos on our homepage. These videos will offer a deeper insight into their lives, skills, and the passion that goes into every product we create. Stay tuned for these inspiring stories!
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