Welcome back! We've been busy curating a new collection of captivating stories, while also exploring a fresh behind-the-scenes perspective. In fact, we recently had the opportunity to sit down with Kemp Edwards, the founder and CEO of Ethical Profiling and Econic, two eco-conscious fashion brands that have been tirelessly working towards sustainable clothing manufacturing for decades.
Kemp is not only a passionate sustainability educator, but also a father and soccer enthusiast. His consumer-focused company, Econic, employs a multitude of innovative techniques for dyeing, cutting, sewing, spinning, and storing their clothes. These methods include the use of plant-based products such as mycelium, and investing in upcycling plastic fibers from used plastic bottles. Kemp is committed to exploring new innovations in the sector, with the goal of steering away from the pitfalls of fast fashion.
Many of us are aware of the negative impact of fast fashion, from the use of pollutant chemicals to poor working conditions for factory workers, including children, and the wasteful culture of disposable clothing. Despite this, many people still opt for cheap clothing, often ignoring the consequences. As Kemp notes, "If the clothes on your back cost less than your Starbucks coffee that day, something's wrong."
However, Kemp's passion for education and conscious consumerism is encouraging. With the right information, consumers can make informed choices about the clothes they wear. Kemp emphasizes that it's not impossible to find affordable clothing, and that second-hand options can also be viable. Clothes that are made to last can be shared, resold, or swapped, creating communities around sustainability. Information about the supply chain and the environmental impact of clothes can help consumers move towards more sustainable choices.
Innovation is also a crucial part of the equation to move away from fast fashion. New technologies for creating clothes, such as pineapple leather and bamboo, can last longer than conventional materials. Organic and fair trade certifications can also ensure quality and ethical business practices throughout the supply chain.
Kemp's most significant lesson is about the importance of buying local. Globalization has led to an increase in carbon emissions from transporting raw materials and finished products around the world. Supporting local artisans and buying local produce can reduce carbon emissions and create stronger connections with local communities.
We are excited to continue working with Kemp and his teams to capture more experiences that demonstrate how a single company can impact an entire industry. We invite you to join us on this journey with Econic and Ethical Profiling.
