Buy Better, Wear Longer, Dispose Smarter
Fashion brands nowadays are becoming more eco-aware, and so are consumers. From production to disposal, fashion retailers and upscale designers alike are rethinking the effects their fabrics have on the environment. Even though we tend to see fashion’s ecological impact as a brand focused problem, as consumers, we can play an important part in creating a path toward a sustainable, and more importantly a zero-waste future. It is as simple as changing our mind-set and being more mindful about the choices we make. All it takes is to gain a little more knowledge about the clothing we wear.
The textile industry draws significantly upon the ecosystem for the raw materials that create our fabrics, but some production processes tend to be more ‘unfriendly’ than others. The great news is that as major brands become increasingly eco-conscious, sustainability standards are also gaining traction across the industry. These standards support best practices and contribute to the emergence of organic or recycled fibre alternatives. As most of us understand the detrimental impacts that fibre production has on the environment, organic and preferred options which are more sustainably produced and far greener, are readily available.
Brands are making commitments. Big brands such as Kathmandu, H&M and Nike have pledged to achieve a 100 percent sustainable cotton production line by 2025 indicating increased accessibility to these garments. Organic and more sustainable counterparts from almost all types of natural fibres, including cotton, linen, down and wool, are becoming similarly available at retailers across the globe.
Amazing! ...
Poll: Do you think NZ should ban social media for youth?
The Australian Prime Minister has expressed plans to ban social media use for children.
This would make it illegal for under 16-year-olds to have accounts on platforms including TikTok, Instagram, Facebook and X.
Social media platforms would be tasked with ensuring children have no access (under-age children and their parents wouldn’t be penalised for breaching the age limit)
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Do you think NZ should follow suit? Vote in our poll and share your thoughts below.
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85.5% Yes
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13.3% No
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1.1% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Railing planters
To gain extra growing space, make and hang these easy-to-build planters on almost any wooden fence or deck railing. Use Resene FX Blackboard Paint so you can easily identify what plants are in each. Find out how to create your own with these easy step by step instructions.