Sometimes, the idea of perfection is paralyzing and overwhelming to the point that people would rather do nothing than do something, not 100% “right”. However, we believe that we don’t need a handful of people living a completely sustainable life, but we need millions of people doing it imperfectly.

Today fashion consumption is at an all-time high and this contributes to a large percentage of pollution and waste worldwide. In order to be entirely sustainable, brands should create and produce nothing at all, as every product leaves a carbon footprint. However, this approach is unrealistic as the apparel and textile sector is the 4th biggest in the world and millions of people rely on it to survive. Therefore, we believe it’s important to look for realistic long-term solutions that focus on creating safe and ethical working conditions for people in every chain of production while mitigating the negative impact on the environment.

However, sustainability is a complicated, constantly evolving journey, and every step forward must be celebrated. Unfortunately, the topic of sustainability has become tainted as people often think it is being forced upon them, take on an all-or-nothing mentality, or are turned off that sustainable products, such as organic and fair trade, costs more. The truth is: everything comes with a cost. Fast fashion has risen with discounted clothing made so poorly that 60% of it is thrown out within a year, only to be worn once or twice. By purchasing cheap and harmful fabrics, there is an immense environmental and public health toll being paid.

Lately, sustainability has been used as a buzzword to guilt-trip and convince people to buy their green products, but to us, sustainability is about creating a real impact instead of using it as a marketing strategy. While our primary focus has been on our designs and making the best streetwear possible, every single production-related decision since day one has been made with sustainability in mind – hence how the name BꓤEATHE was born.

We strive to do things the right way. Not take cheap shortcuts and produce pieces made ethically, even if the process takes longer. Sustainability is our standard, and as we continue to make clothes, we will continue to find new ways to become even more environmental friendly. We understand that there are already enough clothes in the world, but the focus is shifting towards anything and everything that’s more sustainable. Hence, we are here to provide a better option through organic and recycled fabrics made ethically, which also ensures that our clothes are built to last.

Being in one of the most polluting industries – fashion, which is second only to the oil and gas sector, we are well aware that there is still significant progress to be made. However, we are doing our best to be transparent about our sustainability journey and the things that we are constantly working upon, for improvements. We hope to inspire others to begin making more sustainable choices – no matter how small.

The notion of sustainability in fashion itself is an oxymoron, which sparks complete debate entwined with systemic issues around privilege, consumerism, and capitalism. This means that sustainability is nuanced, and should be viewed as a fluid concept rather than one with black and white yes or no. That’s why we limit the use of this word- whenever we can, we try to be more specific about our actions instead of merely saying we’re sustainable.

For us at BꓤEATHE, sustainability is a progressive journey ; not an end destination. It is about making choice that demonstrates we can do better, as an industry.

                                                                                                    Through | Together | Into you

                                                                                                               Powered by sustainability 

The notion of sustainability in fashion itself is an oxymoron, which sparks complete debate entwined with systemic issues around privilege, consumerism and capitalism. This means that sustainability is nuanced, and should be viewed as a fluid concept rather than one with black and white yes or no. That’s why we limit the use of this word- whenever we can, we try to be more specific about our actions instead of merely saying we’re sustainable.

For us at BꓤEATHE, sustainability is a progressive journey ; not an end destination. It is about making choice that demonstrate we can do better, as an industry. Bꓤeathe is not just a brand, it’s an emotion. It is a form of purity, a comfort, a mindful practise, which is on a mission to make consciously-made streetwear clothing  and off- duty styles accessible and inclusive, without sacrificing performance or fit. We exist to show the industry that better options are available, if and when you choose to shop.

Part of the problem

Worldwide, the average number of times a garment is worn before it ceases to be used has decreased by 36% compared to 15 years ago ( ellen macarthur foundations).

Part of the solution : product

Our talented product design team and our trusted suppliers work together to create pieces that are versalite and made to last. We take pride in ourselves for creating wardrobe staples, to be thought-out investments to wear not just for one season. At Bꓤeathe, we release collections that are data-driven and responsive in accordance to what our Bꓤeathe community wants. Being a social media-focused brand, we can understand team BꓤEATHE’s likes and dislikes, and with every launch, we have learnings along the way to better inform our buying practices.

At BꓤEATHE CLO , we recognise the interconnectedness of people and nature. We cannot expect our environment to flourish unless human relationships are nurtured; from empowering our talented factory workers to our hq team, or our dedicated Bꓤeathe community that inspires us to drive accessibility in the industry every day; people are at the core of Bꓤeathe.

Ethical factories

We only work with ethical, accredited factories that are built on shared values and collaborations. Our suppliers are our partners, who are accountable to our supplier code of conduct, which is based on international regulations set by the international labour organisation  (ilo), un universal declaration of human rights, and the united nations global compact and aim to be aligned with industry best practises, such as the ethical trade initiative base code.

All of our factories have scored in the top percentile regarding workers’ involvement and protection, rights of freedom, occupational health and safety, protection of the environment, fair wages, and ethical business behavior. We specifically vet our factories to ensure absence of child labour, bonded labour, or precarious employment. All our supply partners are the factories that are independently audited and certified to meet globally recognised social and environmental standards under iso and sodex..

We know the industry can do better collectively, and we want to be part of the change. 

Accessibility

Accessibility is at the heart of why Bꓤeathe began in the first place; we know there are barriers to clothes that are made ethically and with responsible

Materials. The main and foremost reason why we stretch so much on ethical and sustainable environment is because we as a human being, wish to inhale the most chemical free, organic, raw & clean air and breathe in such an environment. It also resonates with the brand name and identity, therefore we maintain all sorts of strict values and norms when it comes to the safety of our people within the office area and factories.

We champion quality and durability ; no stock to landfill.

We never make products specifically for discount or sale promotions. If our stock doesn’t sell as we expect, we do engage in sales or other responsible solutions to make sure all our products make it to a loving home (aka not landfill). We recognise that sustainability is intertwined with the privilege of choice. We take part in sales because they break those barriers to enable more people to shop Bꓤeathe. Not to mention ( we know you’re thinking it ) we’re also a business, and we have to remain profitable to challenge business as usual for the fashion industry.

Our factories.

When it comes to choosing where we make our next collection, we look at several different factors – materials, price, labor practices, and the environmental work of the factories. We recognise our responsibility to the people involved in the production of our garments, including those we both, directly and indirectly employ. We have developed trusted relationships with key suppliers and now work with them regularly, which is our way of better supporting their workforce, through a predictable flow of orders.

 Of india | For india | From india.

Break the circle of habits, think new.

We need to draw line somewhere

We can all be more imaginative about how we redefine and repurpose products at the end of their life. Instead of thinking in a straight line, we need to start thinking circular. Rather than depleting our resources and creating more waste, let’s turn our waste into resources. Once a product is used up or no longer fit for its original purpose, let’s make the effort to think about how we can give it a second life.

If you’re recycling, upcycling, buying pre-loved clothing, or being inventive with food scraps, you’re already thinking with a second life, zero-waste mindset. It may not seem like much but making a conscious choice to do one thing every day that’s better for the environment, adds up. Once you start, you’ll be surprised how easy it is to develop greener habits in your daily life. What climate positive action will you take today?

Trees are the earth’s lungs, and there’s no better way to grow a tree than from a pencil that has come to the end of its life. A pencil can create drawings or doodles or it can be used to make important business notes or memories. And, as a Bꓤeathe tree, it provides a home for nature as well as supplying oxygen to sustain life.

“Seeds of change”

The natural choice

Our circular design plantable pencils are made with sustainability and social responsibility in mind. Sourced from natural products and producing minimal waste and emissions, they are carbon neutral – and have a second life as plants.

We can all make more sustainable choices. Replacing plastic pens with wooden pencils is a practical way to reduce waste. By planting the pencil stub after use, you’re taking positive action to give a pencil a new and beautiful purpose. This way you are not only helping make a better environment for human beings, but also for the animals or natural habitats around your locality.

BꓤEATHE pencil – the gift that gives back

Put the pencil stub in a flowerpot with good compost, and fresh vegetables, beautiful flowers or aromatic herbs will sprout from the compost

Steps : 1  find a pot with drainage and fill with potting soil.

Step: 2 plant your pencil at a 30° angle, covering the seed capsule with soil.

Step : 3 water regularly and 1-4 weeks, your plants will sprout.

Mission statement:

“At Bꓤeathe, we strive to inspire a world where creativity and sustainability coexist harmoniously. Our basil sustainable seed pencils are a small step toward cultivating a brighter, greener future.

Our story:

Discover the journey of how breathe’s vision came to life. From the seeds of an idea to the flourishing basil plants, every step reflects our commitment to a sustainable and creative world.

Basil bloom pencils:

Explore our signature gift, the basil bloom pencils. Immerse yourself in the aromatic world of basil as you sow ideas and harvest inspiration.

Why basil sustainable seed pencils?

Eco-friendly materials: Our pencils are crafted from recycled materials, ensuring a minimal environmental footprint. We take pride in contributing to a healthier planet.

Aromatherapy for creativity: Basil isn’t just a herb; it’s a muse. The subtle aroma from our pencils serves as a constant reminder to breathe, relax, and let your creativity flow.

Plantable goodness: after your pencil has served its purpose, plant it to grow your very own basil plant. Watch your ideas come to life both on paper and in your garden.

“Breathe life into your ideas with basil sustainable seed pencils.”

At breathe, we believe in the power of sustainable creativity. Our basil sustainable seed pencils are not just writing instruments; they’re a breath of fresh air for your ideas.

Title: “basil bloom pencils: sow ideas, harvest inspiration”

Disclaimer : picture the scene to understand more properly.

Scene: 1

Int. Eco-friendly office – day

A team of passionate environmentalists gathers around a table, discussing their groundbreaking idea for sustainable seed pencils infused with basil seeds. The leader, rohit, addresses the team.

Rohit

(Energetic)

Picture this – a pencil that not only nurtures creativity but also grows into a fragrant basil plant. Basil bloom pencils!

Int. Sustainable lab – later

The team collaborates on the unique formula that combines recycled materials with basil seeds, ensuring a pencil that’s both eco-friendly and aromatic.

Amy, the horticulturist, examines a prototype pencil with basil seeds embedded in the barrel.

Amy(smiling):

Basil is not just a herb; it’s an experience. The aroma will be a constant reminder to nurture our ideas, just like we nurture the plant.

Scene : 2

Ext. Organic garden – day (later)

The team gathers in an organic garden, testing the basil bloom pencils. Each team member plants a used pencil, envisioning a future where creativity and sustainability coexist.

Rohit

(Raising a basil pencil)

Our pencils will not only write stories but also cultivate a love for nature. Basil bloom pencils – where every stroke of inspiration leaves a fragrant legacy.

Int. BꓤEATHE sustainable store – day (weeks later)

The team unveils the basil bloom pencils at a sustainable store, showcasing the eco-friendly packaging and the unique blend of creativity and nature.

Customer

(Smelling the pencil)

This is incredible! A pencil that smells like basil and grows it too? Count me in!

Fade out.

The “basil bloom pencils” script emphasizes the sensory experience of the product, highlighting the aromatic aspect of basil and its connection to nurturing creativity. The storyline aims to create a memorable and engaging narrative for the brand, inviting customers to embrace sustainability in a delightful and aromatic way.

Net-zero by 2040

Our net-zero goal is to reduce our CO2eq footprint by 95% by 2040, without the use of carbon credits. As we move forward with our goals, we will refine our strategy, efforts, and resources to ensure we stay on track. We’ll do this through continuous learning, innovation, and management of our products’ life cycle.

As we continue to find ways to reduce CO2eq emissions from our production processes, we are also looking at minimizing our packaging waste, with a longer-term goal of being completely packaging free. We are completely using 100% compostable 22Ecomm mailer bags and zip- lock bags, sustainably sourced kraft tags, recycled strings, organic material labels, etc. In our branding.

 Conclusion:

The Bꓤeathe pencil is not just made of sustainable materials, it continues to contribute to sustainability even after it has been used. Bꓤeathe pencils contain a non-gmo plant seed and are ready to be planted when the pencil is too short to write or draw with.

Breathe – where every stroke of inspiration is a breath of fresh creativity. Join us on this journey of sustainable growth, one basil pencil at a time. Because, by planting one seed today, we give it a chance to grow into something great tomorrow.

Where are our fabrics sourced from?

Our fabrics that are 100% cotton and organic cotton are grown in india and the recycled fabrics are produced in India and China, where the materials were initially recycled and processed. Although china has a poor reputation for unethical labour, we are proud to support factories that are creating safe work environments and caring for their employees. The foreign trade association (amfori) performs annual factory audits at our partner factories in china to ensure our ethical standards are met. China is also one of the most technically advanced countries in the world, offering us the latest technological advancements, which allowed us to produce clothes more efficiently and sustainably.

Our shipping & returns methods

Our packaging is plastic free. Our garment bags, mailers, and shipping labels are made from 100% biodegradable material that will decompose in 18 months (or 3-6 months, if composted.)

If a customer places several orders, we always ship all of the items in one package to minimize  the need for extra shipping. We also reduce shipping by having in-house sample and pattern developers who create final products without the need for shipping or flying before bulk production.

If any of our clothing gets returned for being faulty, we never dispose the garments, instead sell them for a reduced price during our “mystery drops.” we strive to minimize returns with our customer service team, who helps people find their perfect size before purchasing. We’re also developing a new way to find your ideal size on our website easily.

Things we are not perfect at

We are constantly searching for more sustainable solutions within our business, such as finding new ways to incorporate recycled materials into our

Products. Below are some aspects of our business that could be improved upon and done more sustainably.

1. Travelling, especially long flights.

We are well aware of the environmental impact of travelling by plane; however, often, there is no other alternative (i.e., trains). Photoshoots in different countries are a crucial part of our brand, as it allows us to connect with our audience worldwide.

1. Shipping

We ship to customers globally. The shipping industry has many flaws. Nevertheless,  for deliveries in the uk, we use emission-free deliveries, but there is still room for improvement.

1. Returns

Even though we do not get many returns, we still try to minimize returns as much as possible. Most of our returns are due to an incomplete or wrong address, so we are working on a better system to help avoid this.

How can you be part of the solution?

Recycle or donate your unwanted clothes. 

Instead of throwing old clothes away, donate them to your nearest    community outreach organisation or thrift store, which typically has recycling options too.

Buy consciously.

Choose quality products that you really love and will cherish for a long time.

Choose brands that invest into sustainability.

Your clothes are an investment. By purchasing sustainable clothing, you are sending a message for more environmental friendly options