THE NORDIC SWAN ECOLABEL & THE EU ECOLABEL
In our efforts to create sustainable products, we may risk solving a problem in one place, but creating another environmental problem somewhere else. That’s why we are proud to have a third part to constantly providing strict criteria to follow when we produce our jeans. The Nordic Swan Ecolabel and the EU Ecolabel constantly measure what we do, and we must ensure 100% traceability in all stages. In other words, the certification is a visible proof of our environmental efforts.
The Nordic Swan Ecolabel and the EU Ecolabel build upon a life cycle assessment. This is the essence of the Nordic Swan Ecolabel, and this is where it sets itself apart from other labels or certifications. This is important to us because we believe that for us to make change, we cannot look at sustainable efforts only in parts of our production.
In the end it’s all about trust. When you see a certified product, you know it’s safe for people and planet.
STAGE 1 → RAW MATERIALS
Our cotton is 100% organic and our polyester is 100% recycled. ① When we grow our organic crops, we use 40% less water, 30% less energy and chemicals. And weare constantly improving. ② All suppliers we work with are certified by BSCI and GOTS. ③ Our suppliers must comply with ILO (International Labour Organization) standards. Meaning theirworkers are paid fair and with equal wages and no gender discrimination or child labor ispermitted.
STAGE 2 → PRODUCTION
We save up to 60-90% water in the washing stage compared to conventional productionmethods. ① We use no hazardous chemicals. We completely avoidhydrogen peroxide, potassium permanganate, hypochlorite and optic brighteners. ② We ensure the factories are not polluting their surrounding nature. ③ We only use permitted materials reg sub-components like pocket lining, interlining, zipper,buttons, rivets, labels, hangtags, packaging materials, badges, sewing yarns. Metals used intrimming, zippers and buttons must be tested for lead, cadmium and nickel, and must not beallergenic. No heavy metal. ④ We must comply with ILO standards reg working conditions and fair wages etc in all raw materialand production stages in all subcontractors.
STAGE 3 → CONSUMPTION
Our textiles must live up to strict quality requirements: ① We use technology that allows the denim material to retake its fit and then need less washes. ② The textile is tested when it comes to fiber quality and durability. ③ Focus on as clean materials as possible for recycle purposes.
STAGE 4 → WASTE / RECYCLING
We have focus on clean raw materials which will make the garments easier to recycle after end of life. ① We are currently developing a return system to handle worn-out denim from our customers and finding a way of recycling or reusing it properly. ② All our textile waste in production is given to recycle companies. ③Water used in our production is recycled until a limit and afterwards given to a waste water networks