Overview Vintage clothing is a popular trend among fashion enthusiasts, collectors, and those who appreciate high-quality craftsmanship and unique styles. To identify and date vintage clothing, there are several factors to consider, including the label, the style, and the quality of the garment. One way to spot vintage clothing is to look for the “Made in USA” tag or an American flag on the label. This is because, in the 1960s, American-made clothes were the…

Overview The Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) is a mainstream initiative that works with many farmers using genetically modified (GM) cotton varieties, unlike the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), which can only be used for textiles made with at least 70% certified organic natural fibers. BCI’s adopted position of being “technology neutral” means they’re unlikely to take a stance against GMO cotton anytime soon, which is a major divergent point between BCI and GOTS cotton. By…

Overview When it comes to sustainability, organic cotton is often compared to other fabrics to determine which is the most environmentally friendly option. Hemp, linen, Pima cotton, semi-synthetic fibers, and polyester are some of the fabrics that are commonly compared to organic cotton. Hemp fabric is highly regarded as one of the most sustainable fabrics. It requires around 300 to 500 liters of water to grow 1 kg and doesn’t require pesticides and fertilizers to…

Overview Tupperware containers are a common household item for storing food and other items. However, when it comes time to dispose of them, many people wonder if they can be recycled. The answer is yes, in many cases, but it’s important to choose the right path for each specific item. This section will explore the two main options for recycling Tupperware containers: recycling locally and using TerraCycle. Thicker plastic is easier to recycle, and it’s…

Overview The demand for organic cotton has been growing steadily in recent years, with more and more brands, growers, and processors looking to capitalize on consumer interest in sustainable and eco-friendly products. However, the organic cotton industry has been plagued by issues of fraud and misrepresentation, particularly in India, the world’s largest producer of organic cotton. According to industry insiders, as much as 50% – 80% of what’s being sold as Indian organic cotton is…

Overview While biodegradable helium balloons may seem like a greener alternative, they may not be as environmentally safe as companies claim. Balloons Blow, a non-profit organization, conducted a lengthy experiment to assess the biodegradability of biodegradable and eco-friendly party balloons. Even after being exposed to various elements, the balloons remained intact for seven years and counting. A 2021 study investigated the fate of latex balloons in freshwater, marine, and composting environments. The balloons retained their…

Overview Forestry certification programs such as Forest Stewardship Council (FSC), Sustainable Forestry Initiative (SFI), and Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC) have been established to slow deforestation and promote sustainable forestry practices. However, the reliability of these certifications has been called into question, with accusations of greenwashing and illegal logging practices. FSC, despite being a founding member of sustainable forestry certification programs, has faced numerous accusations of illegal clearcutting, illegal logging, and human…

Overview Pillows are an essential part of our daily lives, but what happens when they become old and gross? The good news is that there are several options available for disposing of them. However, before throwing them away, it is important to assess whether they are actually gross or just in need of a wash. Pillows accumulate dead skin cells as we sleep, so washing them can refresh and redistribute their fill, adding to their…