THE COST OF SUSTAINABLE SWIMWEAR

THE COST OF SUSTAINABLE SWIMWEAR

It’s no secret that the fashion industry has and continues to have a disastrous impact on the environment. It’s quite scary to think about that fast fashion industry is the second-largest polluter in the world. As this industry continues to grow, the damage only gets worse and that‘s why we need to support SUSTAINABLE BRANDS more than ever.

Generally, sustainable products are more expensive than conventional ones. But why the price difference? And more importantly, why is it worth paying extra for sustainability?

1 – MATERIALS

The cost of sustainable products is often higher than conventional products due to expensive raw materials. These premium raw materials are necessary to produce a product that has minimal impact on the environment.

Our swimwear are made from synthetic fabrics such as nylon and polyester, which are derived from petroleum products. They’re essentially plastics that don’t biodegrade for centuries. Our raw material is waste plastic – Econyl® recycled nylon or Repreve® recycled polyester derived from plastic bottles.
Recycled nylon comes from sources such as ghost fishing nets or used carpeting or upholstery. Ghost fishing nets are nets that have been lost or abandoned at sea – experts have estimated that there are roughly 640 000 tonnes of them currently in our ocean, accounting for 10% of the total plastic waste in the sea. This waste is collected on an industrial scale globally, purified and melted down, and our supplier in Italy uses the new fibres to weave into fabric. 
That higher price tag is the cost we must pay to help reduce our environmental impact on this planet.

 2 - DURABILITY

Sustainable products are might be pricey but they will save you money in the long run. Buying sustainably doesn't mean sacrificing on style or quality – in fact, quite the opposite.

Regenerated fabrics such as Econyl® come with unparalleled technical benefits including durability and elasticity for comfort and superior fit, plus, they're oil and suncream resistant and are fast-drying.

At Undersea, we blend these features with considered design and beautiful craftsmanship into luxurious, cherish-forever pieces. We know how tempting is to buy a cute swimwear set for 20€ but does it worth the money if you need to throw it away after 1-2 months and buy a new one again?! It is better (for your wallet & the planet) to invest in one or two long-lasting swimwear and use them for many many summers.

3 – WAGES

One of the largest expenses for businesses is wages. The cost of labor can make or break a company. It’s no secret that many businesses are underpaying their employees and contractors, especially in the fast fashion industry.

Sustainable businesses understand that paying employees fairly is not only the right thing to do, but it’s also good for business. Not to mention that most of the sustainable companies are making their products with fair trade practices. Undersea swimsuits are made in partnership with our manufacturer who shares our belief system and providing safe employment.

4 – PRODUCTION

Companies that produce sustainable products tend to adopt eco-friendly business practices. The mill we're working with uses as many eco-friendly processes as possible, such as only using renewable sources of electricity and using 48.3% recycled water in its production process.

From using a cutting-edge fumes treatment plant, their emissions into the atmosphere are 10 times lower than the limits set by the European law.

Also by using digital printing for all of our custom prints, we reduce the amount of ink and dye used in the process and reduce the amount of fabric wasted overall.

5 - SUPPORT TO NONPROFITS

Many conscious fashion brands help charities and non-profit organizations. Some even give back to the community and donate a portion of their profits to support a good cause. Instead of investing back into the business or paying shareholders, they decide to make financial donations to support environmental protection, disaster relief, welfare, education or community programs.

As UNDERSEA WEAR is also fighting for a healthier Planet, every year we are donating to a non-profit organization to help the wildlife and environment in different aspects.

According to the current situation going on in the world, we decided to postpone our 2022 charity project and instead, we would like to help the victims of the Ukriane - Russia War through Unicef, which is working to scale up life-saving support for children and their families. 

Why you should still consider supporting sustainable brands

Even if fast fashion is very cheap, the environmental and social costs are humongous. Buying green means supporting the use of sustainable materials, fair wages, and environmentally friendly manufacturing practices.

Your money matters, and if you continue to fill your home and wardrobe with eco-friendly products, you’ll be contributing to a possible future where all of our products are sustainable (and more affordable).

Every time you choose to invest in a piece that has been created mindfully, you are helping to protect our natural world and those who call it home. Together, we can make a difference!


 

 

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