Ethical Textiles: Sustainability and Fair Trade: Eco-Design
What does it mean for developing-world workers when prices for clothing and fabric keep dropping? What happens when Westerners buy more and more, driving up demand? How does ecological impact fit into the equation? Global in scope, this three-part series explores the ethical and environmental fallout of large-scale textile production. It follows the work of manufacturers in the U.K. and Bangladesh as it investigates the consequences of ultra-cheap labour and supply systems. In addition, it examines fair trade initiatives developed in response to industry abuses, inequities, and hazards. A crucial resource for economics, sociology, and environmental studies! 3-part series, 25 minutes each.
The Western world still struggles for long-term solutions regarding carbon emissions, energy consumption, and waste disposal. A number of industries, including textile manufacturing, are at the heart of this dilemma. But Finisterre, an outdoor clothing maker, has fearlessly taken on the issue by creating an eco-friendly surf-wear brand. This program follows the workflow of the company from its headquarters in Cornwall, Great Britain, to fabric suppliers in Japan and manufacturers in Portugal. Viewers are shown how Finisterre reduces its ethical and environmental impact as it rigorously evaluates the use of energy and materials not only in isolated locations, but throughout the design, manufacture, transportation, and use of its products. A part of the series Ethical Textiles: Sustainability and Fair Trade. (32 minutes)
1. Introduction to Eco-Design (01:05)
The rise of the green consumer has put pressure on retailers to reduce the environmental impact of their products. ADD
2. Eco-Design: Choosing Raw Materials (02:43)
Finisterre, an eco-brand, designs and manufactures clothes that reflect concern for the environment. Finisterre's design director Tom Podkolinski is on the continual lookout for new materials
