Sustainable fashion has been on the rise in recent years, and for good reason. Low-quality materials and fast fashion have had a negative impact on the environment, but sustainable brands are stepping up to make a difference. In particular, sustainable belts have become a popular accessory for those looking to support the environment while still looking stylish.
These belts are made from durable and eco-friendly materials, making them a great alternative to traditional belts. They not only hold up your pants, but also support social causes and the environment. In this article, we’ll be exploring some of the best sustainable belt brands on the market, along with their unique features and benefits. Whether you’re looking for classic black or bold colours, there’s a sustainable belt out there for you.
Suit Up With Eco-Friendly Belts For Suits & Sustainability
Belts are a staple accessory in any wardrobe, and sustainable fashion is becoming increasingly important to many consumers. Eco-friendly belts are a great way to incorporate sustainable fashion into your wardrobe, while also supporting ethical and environmentally-friendly practices. Here are seven brands that offer sustainable and stylish belts.
1. Matt & Nat
Matt & Nat is a PETA-approved vegan brand that offers a range of sustainable belts. The brand’s most sustainable belts are those in the Purity line, which are made from a polyvinyl butyral (PVB) leather that is made from 100% recycled windshield glass resin and polyurethane (PU). The brand also offers belts made from other vegan materials, such as fruit skin fibers. Matt & Nat’s supply chain and labor practices are ethical, and the brand hopes to become fully sustainable by 2023. The brand encourages customers to donate used handbags to Dress for Success, and 100% of profits from the HOPE Charity Bag are donated to various organizations.
2. Patagonia
Patagonia is a top-tier sustainable outdoor clothing brand that offers durable and flexible belts made of 100% recycled nylon webbing body and anodized, anti-corrosive aluminum buckles. Patagonia’s eco-friendly belts are all Fair Trade Certified sewn, and the brand is a core member of the Fair Labor Association (FLA). Patagonia’s recycled belts join 94% of Patagonia products utilizing recycled plastic and other recycled materials. The brand offers free repairs or replacements for its products, and it is spearheading the regenerative agriculture certification movement.
3. Nisolo
Nisolo is a Nashville-based Certified B Corp that offers timeless and eco-friendly belts made from sustainable leather. The brand’s sustainable leather belts are Leather Working Group-certified, meaning their tanneries are evaluated for traceability, environmental impact, health, safety, and energy consumption. Nisolo’s leather is a byproduct of the cattle meat industry, and the brand is investigating non-animal leather offerings for the future. Nisolo’s supply chain and labor practices are ethical, and the brand is committed to providing “100% living wages” and equal treatment to its workers.
4. Elvis & Kresse
Elvis & Kresse is a sustainable fashion brand that offers belts made from decommissioned fire hoses. The brand’s belts are handcrafted and come in a variety of colors and styles. Elvis & Kresse’s supply chain and labor practices are ethical, and the brand offers free repairs for its products.
5. NAE
NAE is a Portuguese vegan shoe brand that offers a range of sustainable belts made from materials such as cork and cotton. The brand’s belts are cruelty-free and eco-friendly, and NAE’s supply chain and labor practices are ethical.
6. Unbelts
Unbelts is a sustainable fashion brand that offers belts made from a stretchy material that eliminates the need for belt holes. The brand’s belts are adjustable and come in a variety of colors and styles. Unbelts’ supply chain and labor practices are ethical, and the brand offers free repairs for its products.
7. ASKET
ASKET is a sustainable fashion brand that offers minimalist and timeless belts made from vegetable-tanned leather. The brand’s belts are made to last and come in a variety of colors and styles. ASKET’s supply chain and labor practices are ethical, and the brand offers free repairs for its products.
In conclusion, sustainable and eco-friendly belts are a great way to incorporate sustainable fashion into your wardrobe while supporting ethical and environmentally-friendly practices. These seven brands offer a range of stylish and sustainable belts, made from materials such as recycled nylon, sustainable leather, cork, and cotton.
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How We Found The Best Eco-Friendly Belts
When it comes to sustainable fashion, accessories such as belts should not be overlooked. The fashion industry has been notorious for its environmental degradation and unethical labor practices. Therefore, finding sustainable and ethical belt brands is crucial.
Materials
The materials used in making belts play a significant role in determining their sustainability. Animal leather is not a sustainable fabric, and thus, sustainable leather belts must meet specific standards. These standards include sourcing leather from recycled leather offcuts or naturally tanned byproduct hides. For those who prefer vegan belts, recycled and biodegradable materials like cork fabric, kraft paper, and Piñatex are the top choices. However, if synthetic fabrics are the only option, polyurethane (PU) leather is the best choice. PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is not recommended due to its toxic nature and terrible end-of-life prospects.
Certifications
Certifications play a crucial role in determining the sustainability and ethical standards of a belt brand. The Leather Working Group (LWG), Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), OEKO-TEX, People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), and Global Recycle Standard (GRS) are some of the certifications that indicate a brand’s commitment to sustainability and ethical practices.
Supply Chain and Labor Practices
Sustainable fashion brands that provide transparent information about their supply chain and labor practices are highly recommended. Brands that ensure living wages, safe working conditions, and local manufacturing are equally important. Formal manufacturing certifications such as Worldwide Responsible Accredited Production (WRAP), fair trade, B Corporation, Business Social Compliance Initiative (BSCI), and Social Accountability International (SA8000) are also essential in determining a brand’s commitment to ethical practices.
Carbon Commitments and Green Practices
Durable belts that last a lifetime are critical to avoiding fast fashion. Brands that champion circularity through recycling programs and lifetime repairs are commendable. Carbon offset programs are a good start, but brands should do more to reduce their carbon footprint. This can be achieved by using clean energy, efficient manufacturing, and regenerative agriculture.
Community and Charitable Giving
Brands that give back to social and environmental causes are highly recommended. Some sustainable fashion brands contribute as much as 50% of their profits to charity.
Final Thoughts on Sustainable & Ethical Belts
Finding sustainable and ethical belt brands can be challenging, but it is essential for the environment and ethical labor practices. High-quality belts made from recycled, biodegradable, and sustainable materials can last for years. However, before purchasing a new belt, it is recommended to check for secondhand options from online thrift stores. If disposing of an old belt, it should be done responsibly. Repurposing old leather belts through DIY belt crafts is also an option.
In conclusion, supporting sustainable and ethical belt brands is a step towards promoting sustainable fashion and ethical labor practices.
