Giving back by companies can involve allocating part of their profits to community involvement and environmental efforts. In fact, many conscious companies conduct such initiatives throughout the year. This means that as a customer, with every...
In Japan, various dye techniques developed during the Edo period, such as kusaki-zome, a natural dyeing technique that draws colors from plants, flowers and fruit. Back then, natural pigments were used for textile dyeing, which was eco-friendly and...
Denim is a fashion staple that many people keep in their closets; however, it’s also one of the most resource-intensive garments. Japanese fashion retailer UNIQLO launched the sustainable denim project BlueCycle Jeans to overcome this issue...
Kimonos are typically made from silk, one of the most durable natural fibers. With their beautiful patterns and luxurious style, kimonos can be upcycled into many fashion items. For example, Kyoto-based retailer Relier81 makes women’s shoes...
Rename is a Japanese brand that is motivated to reduce excess inventory in the apparel industry. In Japan, 94,000 tons of unsold clothing are discarded each year. One of the reasons for this inventory waste is that fashion brands can’t sell...
The quest for a cruelty-free alternative to animal leather has been a hot topic in the fashion industry. Some examples include H&M’s pineapple leather and Stella McCartney’s vegetarian leather. A new addition to the cruelty-free...
Cravatta by Renacnatta is a tie brand that upcycles kimonos. The kimono is a traditional Japanese dress that was once a staple of Japanese fashion. Now, it is mostly worn on special occasions, such as weddings, festivals and funerals. The brand is...
Phone cases are essential accessories not just for expressing your individuality but also to keep your gadget protected from unwanted scratches or cracks. However, a little-known fact is that 1.5 billion non-biodegradable plastic phone cases are...
As a growing trend, many are curious to learn how to adopt a sustainable lifestyle. However, sustainable living is not a new concept in Japan. Here, it takes form in the practice of the concept of “mottanai.” In the Japanese language...
Himi, a small town in Toyama Prefecture along Sea of Japan is known for its 400-years-old fishing culture. Because of its abundance of fish, the locals call the region a “natural fish tank.” Particularly famous is its winter “buri...