At Canussa, our social and environmental commitment goes far beyond creating fashion with our high-quality, sustainable accessories made in Spain. We are a company born with the goal of innovating in the circular economy. And one of the actions we take to communicate our commitment is to certify ourselves as a B Corp company.
That's why we want to share why this certification is so important to us and how it can help evaluate the impact of companies.
Being a B Corp involves a rigorous evaluation process based on high social and environmental standards, requiring companies to review their policies, partnerships, and make this information available to society.
Most importantly, it's not just about a one-time change, but a process of ongoing observation and transformation based on continuous improvement.
Through the B Impact Assessment tool. This tool not only allows us to measure our performance in terms of environmental, social, and economic impact but also helps us identify areas where we can improve. The B Impact Assessment covers:
And the best part is that this assessment is available for free to all companies, meaning even those that are not yet B Corps can use it to assess their impact and work on areas of improvement. Discover it here.
To obtain certification, you need 80 points. However, at Canussa, we scored 102.4 in June 2022, well above average. This means that we not only meet the demanding standards of positive impact set by B Corp but also commit to continuous improvement and transparency in our process.
Another highlight of B Corp is its large community, consisting of responsible companies from which we can learn, grow, and even collaborate, as evidenced by our collaboration between Canussa Lab and MassMovil. However, there are many more, here are some:
In addition to impact benefits, we also recognize the importance of environmental certifications at a legislative level. Being a certified company puts us in a strong position to comply with new regulations as it is likely that they will be legal requirements in the future.
In summary, being a B Corp and using the B Impact Assessment helps us stay focused on our commitment to positive impact and drives us to be better in everything we do. We are proud to be part of this great community.
]]>Die spanische Handtaschenfirma Canussa und Grupo MASMOVIL, eines der führenden Telekommunikationsunternehmen in Spanien und der erste BCorp-zertifizierte Betreiber in Europa, schmieden eine wegweisende Zusammenarbeit im Bereich Nachhaltigkeit. Gemeinsam leiten sie ein innovatives Nachhaltigkeitsprojekt, das die Abfälle von MASMOVIL in hochwertige Unternehmensgeschenke für Mitarbeiter umwandelt.
In diesem Fall hatte MASMOVIL überschüssige ungenutzte Gesichtsmasken. Anstatt sie zu entsorgen, suchten sie nach einer verantwortungsvolleren Lösung: Sie wandten sich an Canussa Lab, das Innovationslabor von Canussa, wo sie beschlossen, die Produktionsabfälle zu zerkleinern und wiederzuverwenden, um ihnen eine zweite Verwendung zu geben. Das von Grupo MASMOVIL gewählte Produkt war ein Closset, ein Aufhänger für Taschen oder Rucksäcke, ideal für das Büro, das Fahrrad oder den Roller.
Diese Clossets sind ein nachhaltiges Unternehmensgeschenk, das nicht nur die Wertschätzung von Grupo MASMOVIL für sein Team repräsentiert, sondern auch als Beleg für ihr Engagement für Innovation, Nachhaltigkeit und Umweltverantwortung dient.
Maria Cano, Gründerin und CEO von Canussa, drückte ihre Begeisterung für diese Zusammenarbeit aus: "Wir sind begeistert, mit einem weiteren B Corp wie Grupo MASMOVIL an diesem einzigartigen Projekt zusammenzuarbeiten, das Nachhaltigkeit und Unternehmensverantwortung verbindet. Wir hoffen, vielen anderen Unternehmen ein Beispiel geben zu können, die nicht wissen, was sie mit ihren Abfällen anfangen sollen, und von Canussa aus können wir ihnen eine Lösung in Form von Unternehmensgeschenken oder Büromöbeln und anderen Optionen bieten."
Dieses gemeinsame Projekt zwischen Canussa und Grupo MASMOVIL zeigt nicht nur die Bedeutung der Zusammenarbeit zwischen Unternehmen zur Bewältigung von Umweltaufgaben, sondern betont auch das Potenzial der Nachhaltigkeit in der Welt der Mode und der Unternehmensproduktion. Mit einem klaren Fokus auf Wiederverwendung und Abfallreduktion gehen diese beiden spanischen Unternehmen den Weg in eine zirkulärere Zukunft.
Jede Sporty Tasche wird in einer sozialen Werkstatt von Hand genäht, die Arbeitsmöglichkeiten für Frauen bietet, die Schwierigkeiten haben, Zugang zum Arbeitsmarkt in Spanien zu finden. Mit anderen Worten, es handelt sich um lokal und handwerklich hergestellte Taschen die in Spanien gefertigt werden, wodurch der CO2-Fußabdruck reduziert, die Schaffung von Arbeitsplätzen gefördert und die lokale Wirtschaft angekurbelt wird.
Im Falle der Sporty-Tasche wird sie in einer sozialen Werkstatt in Valencia von Hand genäht, in der Frauen in Gefahr der sozialen Ausgrenzung Arbeitsplätze angeboten werden. Dieses Engagement für die Stärkung von Frauen macht die Canussa Sporty einzigartig, eine Tasche mit Zweck.
Ein weiterer wesentlicher Teil von Canussas Mission ist die Nachhaltigkeit. Aus diesem Grund haben wir wiederverwertete Sicherheitsgurte aus Autoverwertungen eine zweite Chance gegeben, um unseren Taschen außergewöhnliche Haltbarkeit und Stärke zu verleihen. Darüber hinaus pflanzen wir für jede verkaufte Sporty-Tasche einen Baum.
Auf diese Weise reduzieren wir nicht nur unseren ökologischen Fußabdruck, sondern fördern auch die Kreislaufwirtschaft, indem wir nachhaltige Taschen hergestellt in Spanien entwerfen.
Die Canussa Sporty ist eine vielseitige und funktionale Tasche. Sie bietet problemlos Platz für einen Laptop bis zu 16 Zoll, Sportbekleidung, eine Wasserflasche und alle Ihre täglichen Essentials. Eine recycelte Tasche, die sich perfekt an Ihren Lebensstil anpasst. Darüber hinaus verfügt sie über eine Innentasche, in der Sie Ihr Handy, Schlüssel oder andere persönliche Gegenstände aufbewahren können, um sie organisiert und griffbereit zu halten.
Und wenn Sie sie auf Reisen mitnehmen müssen, lässt sie sich leicht zusammenfalten und nimmt nur sehr wenig Platz ein.
In unserem Canussa Lab arbeiten wir unermüdlich daran, die Modeindustrie zu transformieren, indem wir nach den nachhaltigsten Lösungen und innovativen Wegen suchen, um mit höchster Qualität zu produzieren, zu gestalten und zu fertigen. Dies ist der Weg, den wir bei der Herstellung von recycelten und veganen Taschen in Spanien verfolgen.
Die Sporty ist ein Beispiel für eine recycelte und vegane Tasche in Spanien, da sie aus einem Stoff hergestellt wird, der "made in Spain" ist und zu 100 % aus recyceltem Polyesterfaden besteht. Ihr Label ist ebenfalls aus dem vorkonsumierten Abfall von Canussa gefertigt
Vom 14. September bis zum 1. Oktober 2023 können Sie die Canussa Sporty während des Vorverkaufs zum Preis von nur 78€ erwerben. Das bedeutet, Sie kaufen sie jetzt und wir senden sie Ihnen am 2. Oktober zu. Im Gegenzug erhalten Sie eine recycelte Tasche hergestellt in Spanien, mit einem exklusiven Rabatt von fast 40€. Eine außergewöhnliche Gelegenheit!
Und wenn das nicht genug ist, können Sie es in 3 Raten mit 0% TAE über Klarnas Zahlungsmethode bezahlen und die Sporty noch heute für nur 21€ erhalten, da Sie einen Rabatt von 5 Euro für Einkäufe über 45€ erhalten. Eine fantastische Gelegenheit, sich der nachhaltigen Moderevolution in Spanien anzuschließen. Aber beeilen Sie sich, denn die Aktion gilt nur bis zum 24. Oktober 2023.
Choosing the perfect bag is not a simple task, but with some tips in mind, you can make an informed and conscious decision. When looking for bags made in Spain, consider the following aspects:
In the Spanish market, there are many reputable women's bag brands, but if you're looking for the best Spanish bag options, keep an eye on these six brands:
One of the advantages of opting for a Spanish bag is its quality and, therefore, its durability. These bags are designed to withstand the test of time in terms of both quality and style. Look for brands like Canussa that have minimalist designs that never go out of fashion. That way, if you choose a high-quality Spanish bag, you can be sure it will remain relevant season after season.
If you're concerned about environmental impact, you'll be pleased to know that Spanish brands that embrace the "Made in Spain" ethos are reducing carbon footprints by producing locally and sourcing from nearby suppliers. Additionally, they contribute to job creation and bolster the local economy.
Furthermore, if you're looking for bag brands committed to sustainability, inquire about the materials they use. Look for bags made with eco-friendly, recycled materials, and produced ethically. These bags are not only a conscious choice but can also be just as stylish and functional as their competitors.
While "Made in Spain" bags are often associated with quality and luxury design, you can also find more affordable options. The key is to balance quality, brand, and design with your cost expectations. Explore the different brands and models we've shared, and you're sure to find the best value for money that fits your budget, obtaining a quality Spanish bag.
In summary, choosing the best Spanish bag on the market is a decision based on quality, design, and your personal preferences. With this practical guide and the options available in the Spanish market, you can find the perfect bag that complements your style and accompanies you for a long time. Explore the best Spanish bag brands to discover your next favorite accessory!
At Canussa, we not only create sustainable fashion but also inspire a conscious lifestyle. By choosing "Made in Spain" fashion, we guarantee quality and durability, and we demonstrate social responsibility. Furthermore, we seek the most advanced technology in our Canussa Lab, working towards achieving full circularity for the brand, experimenting with new recycled materials, and challenging ourselves with zero-waste patterns. Every action we take aims to extend the lifespan of our products and significantly reduce our impact on the planet.
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Nowadays, talking about sustainable fashion is no longer considered something distinctive but rather a practice that is or should be part of the daily operations in companies.
Spain has emerged as a prominent leader in promoting ethical and ecological practices in the industry. As environmental awareness continues to grow, sustainable fashion trends in Spain have taken center stage. Since its inception, sustainable fashion has evolved into a movement that gains more environmentally-conscious followers every day. But, do you know what sustainable fashion is?
Sustainable fashion is much more than just a trend. It's a holistic approach that seeks to reduce the negative impact on the environment and people throughout the entire production chain.
In Spain, this movement gained strength in the early century, with a growing awareness of the need to rethink how we dress and consume. Since then, the term sustainable fashion has evolved from being a novelty to becoming a solid commitment to the health of the planet and social justice.
The first commandment of sustainable fashion is: consume less and better. However, in summer, there is a demand for accessories suitable for the season, such as colorful, fresh, and lightweight bags. And sustainable bags are no exception.
That's why, at Canussa, we add more summery colors to our minimal and timeless bags that are appealing in the summer but can also be used throughout the rest of the year.
The most popular sustainable bags in Spain share some key characteristics. They are crafted from recycled or natural materials, such as organic cotton or vegan leather, thus minimizing the use of non-renewable resources. Additionally, many sustainable brands prioritize the traceability and transparency of their supply chains, ensuring fair working conditions and decent wages for the workers.
Sustainable fashion doesn't have to be expensive, but there will always be different costs associated with producing bags in Spain compared to elsewhere. Therefore, finding stylish and affordable bags is entirely achievable; it's just a matter of considering the value for money. Some sustainable brands in Spain, such as Canussa, strive to provide the highest quality to extend the lifespan of their products.
Sustainable fashion made in Spain is growing steadily, but it's important to distinguish between marketing and genuine good practices. From Canussa, we strongly recommend some sustainable fashion brands in Spain that inspire us:
Ecodicta: A circular fashion community where you can rent clothing on a monthly basis. A sustainable way to discover new brands each season without falling into consumerism.
Urbànima: Urbanima is footwear with soul, or as they define it, respect-à-porter. A brand passionately dedicated to designing and crafting vegan women's footwear, an example of ethical fashion made in Spain.
Slowers: This brand of vegan and sustainable shoes manufactures with biodegradable organic fabrics like esparto, natural rubber, organic cotton, or linen. They handcraft their products and advocate for fair local trade to minimize carbon footprint.
Hupit is a women's fashion brand with the vision of creating a better and more sustainable future. Hence, it's built on four pillars: eco, ethical, sustainable, and healthy.
I love be love is a brand of sustainable swimwear created in Almería. They stand out with their timeless, sustainable designs of low environmental impact that contribute to caring for the sea and the environment. Creativity and design are a must for the brand, which is constantly experimenting.
The choice between handbags and shoulder bags is a matter of style and comfort. Handbags are elegant and compact, perfect for formal occasions or evening outings. On the other hand, shoulder bags offer practicality and versatility for daily use.
That's why, at Canussa, we merge both in a unique model: the hybrid, a functional bag that you can carry in five different ways: as a crossbody, as a clutch, as a waist bag, as a shoulder bag, and even wear it on your wrist.
The question of bag size has been an eternal dilemma. Small bags are perfect for carrying the essentials lightly and neatly, while larger bags offer space to carry everything you might need. Sustainable fashion in Spain encompasses both options, always prioritizing quality, durability, and minimal environmental impact.
Sustainable fashion made in Spain is not limited to the female audience. More and more brands are expanding their lines to include sustainable bags for men that combine style and functionality, offering options such as vegan leather backpacks, showcasing that sustainable fashion is an equally valid and appealing choice for everyone.
In conclusion, sustainable fashion in Spain has flourished into an exciting stream of creativity and responsibility. With choices that blend design with practicality, it's proven that sustainable bags can be stylish while also contributing to the planet. Explore the numerous sustainable fashion brands in Spain and join this movement that is shaping a more conscious and ethical future in the fashion industry.
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How well do we take care of our clients? Do you know how to do it? At Canussa, we are convinced that corporate gifts can become a powerful tool to build customer loyalty and strengthen the relationship with them. Discover how to choose the right business gifts, the benefits you will gain by implementing this strategy, and some original and creative corporate gift ideas that Canussa offers you.
The art of selecting appropriate corporate gifts lies in knowing your clients well. Research their preferences, interests, and needs to find original corporate gifts. Consider personalized options that reflect the appreciation you have for them.
When it comes to innovative corporate gifts, personalization makes a difference. Adding the client's logo and a special message to corporate gifts makes them more memorable and meaningful. Personalized corporate gifts for business clients create an emotional connection with your customers and strengthen the long-term business relationship, resulting in satisfied customers.
Sustainability is already a reality in the business world, and sustainable corporate gifts are one of the most effective loyalty strategies to implement sustainability within your company. Opting for sustainable gifts shows that your company cares about making a positive impact on society. Recycled, circular, eco-friendly, and fair-trade products are ideal options to stand out with a responsible proposal and one of the best practices for corporate gifts to generate loyalty.
At Canussa, we offer some ideas for original and creative corporate gifts, on which any type of logo can be laser-engraved at no extra cost. Furthermore, they are corporate gifts made in Spain.
A versatile and modern phone case with two slots for multiple cards and a long strap to carry it comfortably. A very thoughtful idea if you are looking for corporate gifts for business events.
A versatile, modern, and exclusive laptop sleeve. Resistant to light, water, and tears, this sleeve provides smart protection for your laptop and important documents.
This genderless wallet and card holder has been designed to carry bills and coins along with the most important cards. Ideal for having the essentials with you at all times.
Our most premium gift. An ideal backpack for professionals seeking an elegant and versatile solution. Highly suitable if you are looking for personalized corporate gifts for business clients.
If you are looking for innovative corporate gifts, "Closset" is a hanger made from waste and handbags that have reached the end of their life cycle and would normally end up in a landfill. At Canussa, we give them a second life by transforming them into a hanger, hook, or lock. The Closset is one of those unique and memorable corporate gifts.
The gesture of giving corporate gifts goes beyond satisfied and loyal customers. Personalized corporate gifts create an emotional impact, improve brand perception, and promote recommendations of your services.
But when should you give corporate gifts? Corporate gifts during Christmas are the most common, but they also work very well for anniversaries or corporate gifts for business events.
Celebrate special moments with your clients by gifting items that commemorate your anniversary together. Choose unique and memorable corporate gifts that highlight the values of both parties with personalized messages.
Christmas is the perfect time to show your appreciation to your employees with corporate Christmas gifts. Choose practical and personalized corporate gifts because these details strengthen team spirit and motivate employees.
Corporate gifts should represent the values and image of your company. Choose high-quality items that reflect professionalism and attention to detail. Ensure that your gifts are appropriate for the cultural and business context of your clients, respecting their preferences and internal policies. Consider that sustainable corporate gifts are the best practices for corporate gifts to generate loyalty.
To leave your customers satisfied, it is essential to be creative and think outside the box. Incorporate personalized elements into your corporate gifts to create an emotional connection with your clients. Ensure that they are original, useful, and functional corporate gifts.
Avoid corporate gifts that are not aligned with your company's values, such as low-quality or unethical items, as they can harm your brand's perception. Pay attention to the individual preferences and needs of your clients and choose innovative corporate gifts.
With these ideas and inspiration, you can create effective loyalty strategies through original corporate gifts that surprise and captivate your customers.
Noelia and Nadine, founders of Voramar Fanplastic
- Where did the idea of creating your project come from?
The idea of creating woven bags from plastic bags comes from the passion we share for working with our hands, including crochet; and the need to raise awareness of excessive plastic consumption and contribute in some way to reducing it.
As we couldn't see a way of reducing more plastic beyond what we were already doing (not buying packaged products, using cloth bags, prioritising bulk stores, etc.), we looked for ways to give it a longer, more dignified life. That is when we had the idea of making woven bags from plastic bags.
- What challenges have you had to face when creating upcycled fashion?
A very consumerist world used to very low prices, not accustomed to acquiring or valuing artisanal products.
Our product is recycled and 100% handmade in women's communities. Plus, since it is recycled and not produced with new materials, people seem to give it less value.
We're trying to change that little by little, giving new value to this type of product and transmitting the values that they entail.
- How do you see the future of fashion?
We see the need for an important change, which seems to be taking place little by little.
Fashion is something we all use and consume in our day to day, so it has a direct impact on the well-being of our planet.
Fashion should become a much more sustainable and environmentally aware industry.
At VORAMAR FanPlastic we try to create values with our products to achieve that awareness.
- Do you think a change is really possible?
With enthusiasm and desire, everything is possible, even if it takes some time, thinking global but acting locally, since each one of us can help the whole planet with our daily decisions.
- What would you highlight about Canussa?
Your new product created with recycled materials. We love it! It is a backpack made from airbags and seatbelts.
Also María's willingness to work with us. VORAMAR fanplastic labels are made from remnants of Canussa bags.
]]>Meet Barbara León, the designer and artisan behind Re_
Barbara León, the designer and artisan behind Re_
My career has allowed me to get to know the fashion industry from the inside, with endless positive and enriching experiences. However, at the same time, I was able to identify specific models of behaviour, production and relationship with the client that made me question my role within the industry and my own trajectory. That was when I slowly began a process of critical assessment, both personal and professional. I asked myself how I would like the textile industry to be and how I could work towards bringing those ideas to life. At the same time, I began to research concepts such as slow fashion, sustainability, circular economy, reuse, etc. During this period I also worked with workshops, designers, platforms, stores and so on. actors related to these concepts, who helped me share ideas, experiences, plans, goals, etc. I can honestly say that at the time I had a lot of great but volatile ideas and plans. After a period of some frustration, I decided to come down to earth and harmonize my passion for footwear, reusing versus recycling, responsible consumption through quality products and personalized customer service. After a lot of work, Re_ and its three pillars emerged: Re_diseñar, Re_construir and Re_utilizar.
This whole process has taken over 2 years. I have been more actively working to turn those ideas that make up Re_ into reality since late 2019. So far, it has been a constantly evolving process in which I have not stopped learning and experiencing. Everything is now much more grounded on solid foundations, but I never want to lose the constant innovation and experimentation that I have experienced in these months.
We think every grain of sand counts. At Re_ we sell footwear redesigned and rebuilt from "potentially reusable" waste of used or discontinued textile products.
Designing will be used to integrate the recovered product into the world of fashion and clothing renewal, and technique to achieve a quality recovered product with a competitive market price.
Through my activity, I challenge you to rethink the meaning of consumption and the way we interact with the products we own.
Each pair of shoes we produce is unique and maintains the essence of all the reused components that make them up.
At Re_ we believe in building a community around a circular economy.
I have a degree in fashion and long experience in footwear manufacturing, design and styling. Her relationship with fashion began during her childhood in Andalusia, around a table where her grandmother and aunts taught her what she knows about fashion and craftsmanship while making or mending her first dresses or her favourite clothes. I consider myself a pioneer in the practice of shoe reconstruction and is at the forefront of the sustainable footwear movement.
I can tell you about the mistakes I have made in the creative and productive process until I got to the idea of Re_ as it is now. I'd say that there have been plenty of them, from uppers that were impossible to reconstruct, to pieces that after so much painting and sanding end up losing their essence. But honestly, I would like to keep making these kinds of mistakes, as I could say that it is thanks to them that I have learned the most.
Meeting María was a coincidence, our hearts beat for fashion, but also the environment. It's funny how it can sometimes seem like a contradiction. Maria is a woman with a strong character. That was my first impression and I liked her very much.
Canussa is a sustainable fashion brand that cares about people, materials, beautiful designs and the environment.
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Canussa, welcome to A Sustainable Closet! It’s great to have you onboard. Tell us about your brand and what makes your products sustainable?
It is not easy to define what is and what is not being sustainable. Canussa was born in 2017 with the objective of creating designer and functional accessories that were respectful with the planet and people, and to be as sustainable as possible. We believe being sustainable is not just about the fabrics we use but to be as respectful as we can with the environment and the people involved in the production process as much as possible.
Since Canussa was born, we worked hard to test all the sustainable textiles available. It is still difficult to define what is a sustainable fabric as we have to take into consideration not just the composition but also the carbon, water and land footprints. On the other hand, we found that many of the organic fabrics do not last long. Creating sustainable fashion to us means as well to create fashion that lasts, as we believe this is the best way to contribute to responsible consumption. Consuming less of higher quality contributes to reducing up to 90% the waste we generate and the pollution involved in all the garments that we avoid buying. When we design accessories, quality and durability are some of the most important points in order to be sustainable. We also create designs that are timeless so you can wear them any time of the year for many years. We do not follow trends as we believe that programmed obsolescence is part of the cause of consumer over consuming.
From the social point of view, we manufacture all of our products locally in Spain at artisan workshops with whom we have a close relationship so we can ensure working conditions are fair and we contribute to creating stable jobs in Spain. We select all of our suppliers as close as possible in Spain so we reduce our carbon footprint as much as possible. We also plant one tree per product so we can neutralise our carbon footprint.
There are currently many speculations about vegan leather and if it's actually a better choice in terms of sustainability, what is your take on this?
Leather from animals has been the fabric most commonly used for centuries due to its elegance, quality and durability. Nowadays there is a discussion around what is more sustainable; leather from animals or vegan alternatives to leather. It is true that we could consider leather from animals and upcycled material as the animal usually does not get killed for the skin but for the food industry. The question is, we should not be consuming as much meat as we are if we want to reduce our carbon footprint as meat consumption (which is the mean source for leather) generates up to 20% of the greenhouse gas emissions. We should consider as well the quantity of water needed to tan leather from animals and also the chemicals needed to do so. Especially in countries like China or India where there are no regulations and the water is thrown into the rivers after the tanning process causing serious damage to the environment. Vegetal tanning could be an alternative option to chrome tanning but it needs more water and the quality is not as good as chrome tanned leather, on top of having a limitation of colors.
At the graphic attached you can see different fabrics and its impact. If we would compare which of the two options is more sustainable, I would say, it depends on which vegan alternative to leather and animal leather we are comparing.
Another discussion is, if you believe it is possible to fulfill your needs as a human being without consuming products that come from animals, this would be an ethical discussion.
At Canussa, we have got a compromise with PETA so we do not use any fabrics that come from animals. We have tried most of the vegan alternatives to leather. We have to say that most vegan alternatives to leather are not as resistant as leather and some of them claim to be organic while they only have 10% of organic composition. We have selected the vegan alternative to leather that is at the moment the most respectful as it has got OEK-TEX certification, it can be recycled (as it is a one composition fabric) and very importantly is the highest resistant vegan alternative to leather that we have found, even more resistant than leather!
Still we believe there is still a lot of work to be done, so we keep looking for the latest vegan alternative to leathers and we believe very soon we will see new and better options.
How and where are your beautiful products produced?
All of our products are made in Spain by qualified artisans with which we hold a close relationship. Producing a high quality bag or wallet is not easy, and in Spain we have got some of the best artisans worldwide. So by producing locally we are not only ensuring that the people involved in the production process work under fair working conditions, but we also can use the best quality and durability.
All of our suppliers are Spanish and we try to get the highest resistant fabrics with certification. Our vegan alternative to leather holds the OEKO-TEx certification and our recycled lining has got GRS. We are a Vegan PETA approved brand. We have got the BCorp certification with a score of 102.4 above the average.
Who is the typical Canussa person?
A typical Canussa girl/guy usually is a professional, that is seeking for a stylish daily basis solution, looks for comfort and functionality, he/she is concern about the current global situation regarding social and environmental issues and is considered a responsible consumer who understands the difference between a truly ethical and respectful brand to those who do greenwashing. He/she also values quality over quantity.
What do you think needs to change in the fashion industry to make it more sustainable?
I believe consumers need to lead the change. There are many brands that are creating sustainable fashion but they fail as a business because most consumers still prefer quantity over quality.
As you can see on the graphic attached from a Kantar report, 82% of consumers saving money is their priority when purchasing. Even if there are many statistics that point out that consumers are very concerned about the environment and social issues, when it comes to the reality of consumption, these statistics are not reflected, low cost and fast fashion consumption are still on the top sellers.
I would highlight as well the damage that greenwashing is doing, as many consumers get confused and do not distinguish any more what it is and what is not being sustainable. I would say there should be a regulation to control greenwashing marketing campaigns. It will also be important to be more aware of what is behind a low cost garment.
What would you advise consumers who seek to create a more sustainable closet to do?
I would recommend them to approach sustainable stores and marketplaces that are not just merchants but also experts on sustainability so they can advise them on brands and products.
What's up next, do you have anything fun to share with our readers?
Not sure if it is fun, but we are very excited about our next circular project. We are working on a project to regenerate our accessories at the end of their lives so we can create new stylish products from waste that would end up in a landfill.
What was it that prompted you to create Ecothes?
I’ve always been passionate about the environment and love fashion. But, one day, when I cleared my closet, I realized that I had a shocking amount of clothes I didn’t wear, and most of the clothing was from fast fashion brands - that’s when I thought something needed to change.
I started educating myself about the damaging effects of the fashion industry on the environment and people in the fast fashion supply chains. Around that time, I couldn’t find many resources available that felt accessible to someone wanting to start their sustainability journey - that’s where the idea for Ecothes started.
Ecothes is a platform where we can drive the conversation around sustainability forwards, and help people learn about sustainable fashion, as well as support and showcase some amazing sustainable brands.
You think that sustainable habits are a passing fad. Or do you think they will be part of all tomorrow’s decisions?
Sustainable habits can’t be a passing fad because we’re running out of time to make a difference to the planet. Instead, we must all be aware of our actions’ impacts on people, animals, and the earth and make positive changes.
What helps you to keep going and doing what you do?
When I hear positive feedback from our readers about an article or brand we’ve shared on Ecothes or when a brand reaches out to thank us for featuring them, it makes me feel so happy that we’re contributing to making a difference.
What is your opinion on the fashion industry today?
The fashion industry as a whole is extremely damaging to the environment and is notorious for exploiting workers around the world. The fashion industry produces more emissions than international plane travel and shipping combined.
There is already positive change happening in the fashion industry because of the demand from consumers who want their clothes to be made ethically, with respect for people and the planet.
This demand has meant that we’ve seen a rise in the number of genuinely sustainable brands but has also meant that many large fashion brands are trying to appear ‘greener’ or ‘eco-friendly.’
While it’s great to see brands making positive changes, many large fashion brands are greenwashing their customers by tricking people into perceiving that they’re committed to helping the environment while still using exploitative and damaging processes.
It's therefore crucial as consumers that we educate ourselves to ensure we aren’t greenwashed. A good place to start is to look for whether a brand is transparent about its materials and its supply chains.
What advice would you give to a person who wants to start having a more sustainable lifestyle?
I’d say to start slowly with small changes you can implement into your day-to-day life, like reducing your meat consumption, buying less, supporting sustainable and ethical brands, and walking or cycling instead of driving where you can.
One thing I found empowering when I first started my sustainability journey was to educate myself on why I was changing my habits. This helps my new sustainable habits stick long term.
We know you offer a very useful free newsletter. Could you tell our readers what’s behind it?
Of course, we offer a bi-monthly newsletter called the Ecothes Edit, where we share a combination of what’s new at Ecothes, interesting articles we’ve read on other websites, interviews with sustainable brand founders, and amazing sustainable products we’ve discovered. It’s completely free to sign up, and we love to hear feedback from our community on what articles they’d like us to research next!
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We met Alberto Andreu, Founder of Componentes Sostenible, specialist of reinforcement and distributor of Rhenoflex.
- Can you tell us the story of Rhenoflex
It was born 70 years ago in southern Germany. Much has changed since then, but we still have the same desire for innovation. For Rhenoflex, innovation and sustainability go hand in hand. This is why we have become the world leader in reinforcement solutions for footwear and accessories. All of this can be seen in this LinkedIn video.
- What challenges do you face when introducing your sustainable reinforcement solutions in the world of footwear and accessories?
The main challenge is to distance ourselves from greenwashing. Rhenoflex Eco-Level has three groups of sustainable materials according to the percentage of synthetic recycling, bioplastics or natural fillers: one leaf means up to 30% of sustainable content. Two leaves, from 30% to 60%. And three leaves mean the materials have over 60% of sustainable content. The second challenge is to make a sustainable material at market price. There is no point in having a very sustainable product if it's too expensive for most people to buy. Another challenge is to produce materials with the least possible environmental impact. We agree with Patxi from Naturalista: Our goal is to achieve a balance between sustainability, comfort, quality and durability. In our latest project, PalmiElx, we have achieved a socially, economically and environmentally sustainable product.
- In terms of sustainability, how are Rhenoflex shoe reinforcements different from conventional options?
Conventional shoe reinforcements are more polluting because they take a long time to degrade. They are 100% polymers: plastic, in other words. The most sustainable ones have a percentage of recycled plastic, but it's still 100% polluting plastic. Rhenoflex's most sustainable products include organic waste and biodegradable polymers. This combination has made them not only biodegradable but compostable (according to ISO 14855), which means they become compost or fertilizer at the end of their useful life in the landfill.
- What processes and tools do you use to innovate?
We focus on organic waste. For example, in materials with palm tree pruning waste, we work with the city council to organize the collection of this waste, which goes to a company responsible for crushing, drying and grinding it to a specific size. We use the powder to make shoe soles, reducing plastic between 20% to 40%. The largest particles are used for our shoe reinforcements, with 30% palm tree instead of plastic. Until now palm tree pruning waste went to a waste management centre and was turned into compost. The problem is that it costs more to produce the compost than the product itself, a cost that we taxpayers pay. On the other hand, as we have said before, we solve the environmental pollution of landfills by replacing plastic with natural, biodegradable components. Another of our social aspects is our contribution to the maintenance of a world heritage site such as the Palmeral de Elche.
- What would you highlight about Canussa?
María Cano's ability to work with the best professionals around. What I like most about Canussa is their way of being. Their human quality can be applied to the brand. Continuous improvement is in their DNA. They strive to be authentic: if sustainable, be as sustainable as possible. Canussa is transparent, 100% vegan and does not compromise the quality of its products.
]]>]]>Mariola Marcet, Founder and CEO of Upcyclick, is one of the entrepreneurs pioneer in Spain promoting upcycling within the fashion industry. We wanted to find out more about her amazing project.
Where did the idea behind upcyclick come from?
It came from another project of mine called “De armario a armario” that I started in 2010 and was about swapping clothes. Through this project that I started like a hobby I discovered the slow fashion movement that change my point of view about fashion. And I decided to be part of the solution, instead of being part of the problem. In 2016 I had the opportunity to do an acceleration program for social projects organized by Social Nest foundation and there came out Upcyclick that won the “Distinction for the startup with the greatest social impact”.
Which challenges you had to face?
First of all, the lack of awareness from people about the meaning of “upcycled” . Nowadays we can hear and see more examples in the mass media and we can see examples in big brands, but when we started six years ago, in Spain it was a very unknown. That’s the reason why, from the beginning of the project, we have worked to teach and spread the sustainable fashion and Upcycling as a part of it. The second one it’s highlight the importance of the dressmakers, seamstress.
How do you think will the the future of fashion? Do you think a change is really possible?
I’m a very positive person so my vision is positive, but not so much if we don’t do something urgently to change the actual situation.
To make a real change in fashion, it is necessary that all the parts take part in the process, that is: citizens, companies and governmental institutions. It is not only the citizen that has to support all the weight of being sustainable as it has been till now.
Fortunately, on March 30th, the first legislative initiatives were presented that mark the way towards sustainable production as the main standard of trade in the European Union.
Mariola Marcet, Founder and CEO of Upcyclick
The EU Strategy on Sustainable and Circular Textile Products sets out targets and concrete measures to ensure that, by 2030, textile products marketed in the EU are long-lasting and recyclable and are made as far as possible with recycled fibers, without dangerous substances and produced respecting social rights and the environment. Consumers will enjoy high-quality textiles for longer, fast fashion should be out of fashion, and cost-effective reuse and repair services should be widely available.
We hope that this strategy is really applied and controlled so that there is a real change in the industry would be the key to accelerating this change. Because there have been legislative initiatives similar to these, one specifically approved in 2018 at a European level that has not yet been applied due to pressure from large lobbies.
What would you highlight of Canussa?
The Timeless, the good quality and the practicality of all the products. Also the constant interest of its founder, Maria, to improve. She is always researching to contribute with her brand to the improvement of the fashion accessories industry, or rather, to change. I am lucky enough to chat with her often, share our concerns and see how we can support each other to make a real impact in fashion. María is a great person that I admire and appreciate.
We love to share the story of impact entrepreneurs specially if the project is female founded like Liv and Grace, a project founded by Belen, Christiane and Giovanna that was born with the aim to educate the consumer so that they can consciously make decisions about what to purchase without feeling like they're giving up style and creative expression.
We met Giovanna Spica, and asked her few questions about their amazing project:
- WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO SPECIALIZE IN VEGAN PREMIUM FASHION?
We decide to come together and create this premium fashion marketplace because we all, Christiane, Belen, and I, have a firm belief in wanting to make the world a better place. We all came into this for a different reason, Christiane is what I was call an environmentalist. She doesn't have a degree or anything but her main focus is promoting a lifestyle that benefits the well-being of the planet. Belen is very much an animal activist. Her passion is making sure animals' voices are heard and their struggles felt, she's a total empath. And for me it was more about the humanity and spiritual evolution this all represents. I firmly believe that we can make this a better world and that it all starts with how we consume, whether that be what we put in our mouths, what we put on our bodies, generally what we pay for. We are all consumer activists in that sense. It made sense for us to provide the world with something we think it is in desperate need of. It's no secret that fast fashion has overtaken the world. There are tons of documentaries about overproduction, mindless consumption, overconsumption, the mounds and mounds of clothes that are taking up space in landfills. Well-meaning Westerners bombard countries like Ghana or my own country of the Dominican Republic with clothing waste. It's a serious problem and one we have to act on now. Slow fashion is the future. We need garments that protect the Earth, are durable, are not dependent upon animal agriculture, and make people feel good.
Not to mention, Belen is a model, as was Christiane, and I was a stylist and who went to fashion school therefore. It only made sense. We all love fashion, and luckily enough, I believe we're all optimists, dreamers, doers.
Liv and Grace founders: Giovanna, Christiane and Belen
- WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHALLENGES YOU FACE?
I'd say the two main challenges we face are consumer expectation and education. They pretty much overlap and go hand-in-hand. It seems as if the vast majority of shoppers are more interested in quality over quality. Fast fashion has gotten people accustomed to buying new clothes, shoes, and accessories every season and a lot of time even for mundane events. Got invited to a dinner, graduation, party, or wedding? Need a new pair of shoes, or a new dress, or a new shirt, or something new. This concept is very strange and entirely unsustainable. A lot of us, including myself, prefer shopping that is quick, cheap, trendy, and ships for free. Luckily, people are waking up to the disastrous affects this type of shopping is having on the environment and the human psyche. it's not only taking a toll on our planet but on our mental health. It's also, quite obviously affecting the small business model. Small business won't be able to catch up unless something changes. The climate crisis is only one of many wake up calls we needed in order to wake us all up to our detrimental behavior.
Also, a lot of it boils down to a lack of information. Most of my friends had no idea that faux leather could be made from fruit, vegetables, or seaweed. The industry has brainwashed us into thinking that furs and leathers are luxurious and high end, whereas, thats far from the truth. We've been fed lies from the fashion and advertising industry for years and years and now we have to undo all of that programming. Incredible innovations are being created and this is only the beginning. Chopping animals up for bags or shoes will be a thing of the past. Years from now we'll look back on it and consider it barbaric. The world needs to know that beautiful cruelty free fashion alternatives exists.
WHY IS CANUSSA AT LIV&GRACE
We chose to have Canussa on our platform for many reasons including; it's local, your factory and warehouse are in Europe, it's women owned, and we believe in your products. We had known much about your bags and accessories before embarking on this journey and we trusted the brand. Now I can speak for myself when I say that my trust grew exponentially after having met Maria face-to-face. A big part of why we exists and why we choose to take on the brands we do is because we want to see companies that are working with new textile tech to grow and be successful. We invest in companies that we believe are leading the way towards a greener future. When I spoke to Maria she was adamant about consistently improving her product in order to best suite ethical and sustainable requirements. We both agreed that plastic wasn't the best alternative but, that we could see positive change happening quickly. If we invest in companies like yours that see the finish line and work tirelessly in finding the correct materials to offer the public, we'll definitely change the world.
]]>When and why did you decide to create a vegan and sustainable footwear brand?
I decided to create a footwear brand just right before coming back to Spain after 7 years living abroad.
After living in 3 countries and having 15 years of experience in incredible sales, logistics, supply chain and finance departments, I reached a point when I decided to stop, give my life a complete turnaround and create a project that was meaningful to people and cruelty free.
When you think about it, consuming in a sustainable way, at any level, should be the "normal" thing to do, because it's a balance with which we all win.
How do you think consumers could distinguish between brands that are truly sustainable from those that are just greenwashing?
There are some key points that identify truly sustainable brands:
To summarize, using sustainable materials does not make your brand a sustainable one. There are many points to bear in mind such as who made the fashion you are wearing, CO2 emissions caused depending on the production country vs brand country, etc.
Maite Navarrete, Founder of Urbanima
How can you see the future of Fashion? Do you think a real change is possible?
Actually, the question should be “how can you see the future of the planet?”. A real change is needed, urgently. So as fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world the future of fashion MUST change right away.
As per my opinion it won’t be made in a short-term basis because that would mean that all the popular large brands change their business models, the same business models that have led them to build their empires.
Which have been the challenges that you have had to face when creating vegan and sustainable footwear?
One of the challenges that we are facing at Urbanima is the minimum quantity required by our providers. Having to fight for every single new model that we want to produce in a small scale is, by far, the hardest challenge as of today.
Convincing an old industry, such as the footwear industry in Spain, of the importance of a controlled production is impossible mission.
Hopefully within 3-4 years, using vegan and sustainable materials in a small scale will be easily done.
What do you like most of Canussa?
Canussa and Urbànima share 100% of the values. I am in love with every single product of the brand. Not only for the materials used but also for their timeless design and the high quality of each item.
Besides, Maria, Canussa’s owner, is a wonderful human being that shares all her knowledge and tips in order to make Urbànima grow and shine.
Canussa and Urbànima we are two brands seeking for a better cruelty free fashion approach.
]]>B Corps are a growing group of companies who are reinventing business, by pursuing purpose as well as profit.
The BCorp Certification is for the whole of a business and covers five key impact areas of Governance, Workers, Community, Environment and Customers. The certification process is rigorous, as companies have to score over 80 and provide evidence of socially and environmentally responsible practices - including energy supplies, waste and water use, worker compensation, diversity and corporate transparency. To complete the certification, Canussa will legally embed their commitment to purpose beyond profit in their company articles.
We are happy to say that we score 102,4 which is above the average!
CANUSSA is now part of a community of over 3800+ businessesglobally who have certified as B Corps. The B Corp Community is reflective of the European economy with businesses from a cross section of industries and sizes.
About B Lab Spain
B Lab Spain is a non-profit established in 2014 to serve a growing community of Spanish companies using business as a force for good. B Lab measures and verify companies’ environmental and social performance using the B Impact Assessment, and ensure rigorous standards are met by all European B Corps. Together with B Lab teams from around the world, they link a global network of socially and environmentally responsible businesses and promote positive, action-led change towards a new approach to business.
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Canussa, the sustainable designer brand for professionals, together with Track a Brand, smart labeling solution company, came to a strategic agreement to work together on incorporating a smart tag technology into Canussa's products. Both companies, Canussa and Track a Brand, were founded by ESADE alumni, Maria Cano and Kirill Gusev respectfully.
The enormous environmental impact of the fashion industry is getting the attention of governments and consumers from around the world. Increased demand for sustainable products is pushing governments to consider how to reduce the carbon footprint in fashion by increasing its transparency and product lifespan. Similar types of sustainability-focused policy proposals were recently announced by the EU and the UK. These initiatives will help consumers combat greenwashing and make more environmentally friendly purchases.
Canussa with a help of Track a Brand decided to pioneer the ultimate transparency and incorporate the digital ID into their products before it will become a new norm in the EU.
The Track a Brand's platform generates digital IDs for each product, combining NFC tags and a crypto-protected product database. Canussa will be able to showcase products' sustainable footprint, authenticity, and philosophy to their customers. Also, this technology can open doors for safe and secure second-hand transactions, helping to increase the current somewhat limited lifespan of an average garment.
There are similar platforms on the market that could be not affordable due to the high price per item. Often a product implementation on a company level requires further software development and an existing ecosystem, which is relevant to large corporations only. Track a Brand’s goal was to make its solution available and affordable for small and medium-scale sustainable brands. The solution itself includes a customizable platform for companies and an easy-to-use and attractive mobile app for their customers. This approach doesn't require any further software development made by the brand itself.
The Track a Brand app is linked to an NFC tag attached to each item at the stage of manufacturing. Users simply scan a product and get information on the item and the company that makes it. Today, items generally only show the country of origin and composition; in contrast, an NFC tag can store a range of information, including details of a product’s sustainability footprint.
With this technology, traceability and transparency can be raised to a whole new level, avoiding fake ‘greenwashing’ claims. Also, the technology gives each product an identity. The item can tell its own unique story to a consumer. Also, Canussa can share its philosophy and environmental impact with its customers and gain market insights and consumer preferences that will improve its marketing and sales.
This collaboration has been possible thanks to Esade EWorks venture creation program that provides a series of activities and services designed to foster and support new venture creation and where Canussa and Track a Brand' paths crossed.
About Track a Brand:
Track a Brand has developed smart labeling solutions for sustainable industries. They create individualized solutions for companies to advance customer understanding and engagement and elevate consumer interactions to the next level across the lifespan of a garment.
Their smart label is designed to drive consumer satisfaction, confidence, and brand transparency in the sustainable fashion and lifestyle industries. Its innovative technology is flexible, cost-effective and creates individualised solutions for brands to embrace radical transparency and enhance consumer engagement with their products.
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We had the pleasure of interviewing Marcos Martín , Sustainable Development Manager at Havas Group, finding out more about the story Planta 7.
1) What is Planta 7 all about?
Planta 7 (7th Floor) is not a physical space at any of our offices in Spain, but an imaginary "floor" that any employee can go up to and advershare, helping those who need it most by sharing what we do best: advertising.
It's essentially a voluntary professional corporate program with which we try to help promote both people and their projects. Our people are our main value, and thanks to their commitment we can offer training, coaching, mentoring, and free advertising services to important impact start-ups. At Planta 7 any of our employees can devote a 7 per cent of their work day to help others.
2) Of all the projects you’ve fostered, which three do you think have achieved the largest environmental and social impact, and why?
When it comes to direct help to people I'd say the coaching sessions we developed with Fundación Quiero Trabajo, helping unemployed women at risk tackle with courage and security one of the most critical stages of job searching: a job interview. In 2021 a total of 22 women joined the labour market thanks to the help of our volunteers.
Regarding our free advertising services for different projects, I'd highlight the challenge faced by social start-up Auara when trying to achieve media presence to raise awareness of the humanitarian crisis that comes with limited access to drinking water around the world. On World Water Day we launched a powerful concept with which we managed to appear on the main TV news shows, all with a limited budget.
Campaign: https://youtu.be/3azirj6po-I
Results: https://youtu.be/nDIgms7ttpU
Marcos Martín, Sustainable Development Manager at Havas Group
3) Why did you choose Canussa for Planta 7?
Canussa is exactly the type of project we want to promote at Planta 7. A project born from María Cano’s personal story and her idea of how to make a difference and create a better world. Her ambition came to life as an impact business model that’s already become a reality and has a huge potential growth. Additionally, we have a very precise brief with which we know we can add value and that we're already working on.
4) Which marketing and communication advice would you give businesses that want to become more sustainable and circular?
I think that honesty is key. In the world of advertising we often find projects or commercial messaging with no real commitment or sustainable goal. Fortunately, consumers keep evolving and demanding honesty and facts that back brands’ sustainability messaging, a trend that makes greenwashing or socialwashing quite obvious and easy to detect.
I would also advise against going directly to the list of Sustainable Development Goals and choosing one without before having asked yourself who you are and what impact you can have. In our case, as an advertising group we have the best professionals and the power to create and spread messages, and with this in mind we develop a sustainability strategy with clearly defined commitments.
5) What more can be done on a communication and marketing level to promote change towards a more sustainable consumption model?
For a long time advertising has been on the opposite side of sustainable consumption because, by definition, we create needs were there are none. But times are changing and brands and agencies no longer believe in that model, but in the power of communication to create better consumers and better human beings.
We must continue putting our faith in technology that allows us to achieve the maximum segmentation and personalization of what we offer, and to create more sustainable markets. We must continue bringing consumers and brands together, stimulating transparency and honesty, something that’s made easier by social media. We must continue measuring and reducing the environmental footprint and effects our campaigns have. And we must be critical and demanding with the power we have; we must identify any messaging that works against sustainable consumption, and use our ideas, creativity and the media to generate a positive change in the way we consume that helps to make this world of ours a better place.
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1) When and why did you decide to create a sustainable fashion brand?
Hupit was born in 2017, although it started to take shape before. While I was studying Fashion Design at Parsons I started to feel passionate about the world of sustainability and started working in this field. During my academic training and later in my working experience, I realized about the huge environmental impact the Fashion Industry has and that a lot could be done to improve it. By then I was already vegan and concerned about issues related to the environment and animal suffering. So, all this made me wonder if what I was doing agreed with who I was. I loved Fashion and designing, but I needed to give to it a deeper purpose. I not only wanted to do beautiful clothes but to create fashion that could have a positive impact on the world.
2) How do you think consumers could distinguish between brands that are truly sustainable from those that are just greenwashing?
It is not easy to say, as there are many brands that use a large part of their budget for this type of marketing practice. But it is easy to distinguish when you look into the history and philosophy of a brand, if the brand is transparent and facilitates information about where they produce, the fabrics they use, etc. Something else to take into consideration is coherence, if what the brand "advertise" is what they are really applying in their policies.
3) How can you see the future of Fashion? Do you think a real change is possible?
Yes, I think a real change within the fashion industry is possible. There is already more and more people conscientious about sustainable fashion, even if they are still few, but I believe there will be more and more. Maybe we will not have a perfect industry as there will always be aspects to improve, but I believe that positive changes will be made.
Marisol Estellés, Founder of Hupit
4) Which have been the challenges that you have had to face when creating sustainable fashion?
On one hand I would say that it has been difficult to find fabrics with the characteristics and variety we look for. On the other, I believe what is most difficult is to be competitive. To create a brand that is truly based on sustainabiniity (that manufactures in Spain, that is concerned about overproduction and waste, that verifies that the fabrics have certifications and they are made in Europe, etc.) while also being competitive within the market is a real challange.
5) What do you like most of Canussa?
I love Canussa’s vegan and sustainable philosophy, the quality of its products and their practicality. Canussa designs models that are very practical but elegant at the same time, so they can be used every day without one getting tired of them, just like the versatility and timeless that you are seeking at Hupit
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We met Sarah and Luisa, co-founders of Infinite Closet and we wanted to find out more about their project.
Where did the idea come from?
As women, we all know the daily struggle to figure out what to wear each day. Despite having a closet full of attire, we still just never feel like we have anything to wear. It’s a struggle among many women, particularly millennial women, who are often out taking photos and don’t necessarily want to be seen in the same clothes twice. The desire for a variety of attire is visible among women of all ages, especially in the London area. From formal occasions, to work meetings, to nights out with friends, there is a social pressure to constantly keep up with the latest trends. Many women have strict budgets (us included) and can’t necessarily afford buying clothes all the time. We don’t see the practicality in continuously updating our wardrobe with clothes we may only wear once, and don’t think women should waste their money on those items either. It’s a vicious cycle that we want to break!
Our mission is to help women feel confident and fashionable while creating a more sustainable future. Our e-commerce platform allows customers to discover and rent independent, sustainable and ethical clothing brands while cutting their carbon footprint and supporting “slow” fashion – making it affordable for the average consumer.
Why Fashion Rental?
The average person today buys 60% more items of clothing than they did 15 years ago – consumers keep that clothing for only half as long as they used to, and one in seven consider it a fashion faux-pas to be photographed in an outfit twice. So by renting, we allow customers to take advantage of the environmental, financial, and social benefits of renting. Advantages include:
What are the main challenges you are facing?
Like most women we love fashion, but we know the fashion industry has an enormous impact on the environment, both in the number of resources it requires for production and in the waste it produces. Billions of pounds of clothing waste go to landfills each year, and as it decomposes it emits greenhouse gases that harm the planet.
At Infinite Closet, we work hard to make people conscious of their shopping habits. Our goal is to reach as many women as we can and to make them understand that they can always look fashionable without having to spend tons of money on new clothes. It also supports the planet, makes them conscious of their carbon footprint, and can help stop global warming by only making a few changes in their lives that offer a huge impact. For us, ensuring that every step of our supply chain has been thought out is also important, as we want to make sure we show our customers that we care about the planet before profits.
Do you think consumers are ready to rent instead of purchase?
Absolutely! We know that once people understand the benefits of clothing rental, they will feel as strongly as we do about being able to create environmental impact while also getting to feel great about themselves! It’s an opportunity to try out new designers, new styles, and new colours that people would often be hesitant to try, and encourage them to only purchase the items they love. We believe fashion should be fun, but we also believe it’s our responsibility to care about the environment too. With renting, customers can expand past buying and try new looks without feeling like they’re pushing themselves too far out of their comfort zone. That feeling can be incredibly empowering. It’s nice to be able to test out something you’d normally never buy, but know that you aren’t forced to keep that item at the end. It’s fashion without the guilt.
Why did you decide to include Canussa at Infinite Closet?
First off, we love to support independent businesses -- especially other SMEs who care about the environment while encouraging the fashion industry to do better. Canussa not only meets all the requirements we have to partner with a brand including being sustainable, caring for the environment and using appropriate materials, but we also love the style. The bags, colours, and designs are classic pieces that are perfect for our customers looking to match the third piece with any of their outfits.
What do you like most about Canussa?
We love the idea of helping independent brands, especially those that are women and minority owned. But more importantly, we know Canussa’s values and they match perfectly ours. So in addition to offering gorgeous designs to our customers, they can rest easy knowing that they’re renting a sustainable and ethically produced hand bag.
]]>We had the pleasure of interviewing Laura and find out more about Puratium and her vision on sustainable fashion.
1) When and why did you decide to promote sustainability?
A few years ago, whenever we were doing groceries, we started realizing that we had more packaging than actual food in our bags (particularly because of single-packaged goods within another bigger one). It triggered a change in our mindset, as we did not understand why most supermarkets did not make it easy for any of us to
A) Buy package free (or at least, let us choose a more sustainable option) and B) Indicate more clearly where the product was grown/comes from so that we did not have to spend quite some time deciphering labels each time.
Bearing the above in mind, we looked for zero (or at least) low stores in our neighborhood that mainly offered local and organic products. Beyond the challenges around food production and consumption today, the pandemic allowed us to realize the impacts of our daily habits, whether for transportation or fashion.
Instead of (simply) making some efforts here and there, we decided to create our own eco-hub - a place explaining sustainability, veganism, zero waste, and other crucial topics that can allow all of us to make better eco-friendly choices in our daily lives.
Laura Wey Co-founder of Puratium
2) What are the big challenges you’ve had to face?
We had to accept and navigate the differences between us, and our friends and family. Not everyone was ready to hear that we make our own odor-free laundry detergent and that I had reusable period panties. The other one is discipline: sometimes we forget our reusable containers or bags and there is always a bit of guilt kicking in when we buy conventional packaging. To live a more sustainable lifestyle takes patience and self-care.
3) How do you think the consumer will be able to distinguish truly sustainable brands from those that are merely greenwashing?
Educating yourself is key, hence the importance of reading extensively on the topic from various reliable sources and recent research. Attending workshops is another way to be able to decipher the issues beyond fast vs slow fashion, and fast vs slow food.
One important way for us to be able to determine if a brand is truly committed is to look for a combination of mandatory information that should be easily available on their website: a code of ethics, a list of materials and ingredients that are 100% understandable even if you're no chemist, a description of the supply chain, a commitment to community work & diversity and inclusion, trustworthy certifications that ensure for example that no harmful chemicals are being used and that the products are made by fairly paid workers, and lastly, a brand that is fully cruelty-free.
If you cannot find these elements easily, or if for some reason the brand is using green logos everywhere within a clear context, be on the lookout for fakery intended sustainability.
4) How do you see the future of fashion? Do you think that real change is really going to happen?
It's already happening! We see a growing interest from customers expecting transparency from fashion brands. We wish it could grow even faster; as most of us know, fashion is responsible for a significant amount of carbon emissions globally (around 10% last time we checked), and with climate change's disastrous effects, we need to embrace the issue from various angle.
That is, our consumption and transportation habits as a whole. We can only hope that the future of fashion will only be about slow fashion - with locally sourced and recycled materials, preferably plant-based, and made in decent conditions thus promoting quality and handicraft over cheap and temporary features.
Fast fashion, unfortunately, due to its (insane) affordability and ability to offer so many options every two weeks, still seduce a significant portion of customers. We need to work together to make slow fashion the new normal: affordable, long-lasting, and not only perceived as destined for day-dreamers.
5) What do you like best about Canussa?
Its intention to support small & medium businesses, its ambition to offer high-quality vegan leather that is free of toxic chemicals, the traceability of each SEAQUAL made piece, its minimalist style which reinforces the change of long-term wear (thus avoid the fashion fatigue symptom that pushes some of us to renew our wardrobe every year).
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1) When and why did you decide to set up a sustainable travel agency?
As a professional and, above all, as a traveller I have evolved in my fourteen-year career. And visiting more than 62 countries, seeing both the good and not so good things I saw, made me decide the path I wanted to take. Sustainability no longer seemed to me an option but a necessity.
2) What exactly is ‹sustainable tourism›?
I can only give my own particular point of view, which is therefore subjective but still mine, based on my own experience.
For me it’s the type of ethical tourism that has, above all, an awareness of local cultures and ethnic groups, while at the same time contributes to generating decent employment and income for these people and their families. All of this while, of course, trying to minimize its impact on the environment.
3) As a sustainable travel agency, how do you differ from a conventional one?
We always deal directly with the people or ethnic groups we want to visit, so the money that finally reaches these groups is not dwindled due to intermediaries.
We have removed almost all the non-recyclable plastic that we used to use, replacing it, for instance, with recycled cardboard in the folders we use for travel vouchers, itineraries, timetables and so on, though we always try to send everything via digital means.
In Costa Rica, for example, the water bottles we used were made of Oxo-biodegradable plastic, which is a little more expensive, but when the packaging degrades it does not harm the environment, as it returns to it without leaving any waste. These are just a few of many, everyday details that improve our sustainability on a daily basis. And like these, there are many more details that we may not see, but that surely make a difference.
A sustainable travel agency is not going to list in which ways it is sustainable, as that would probably look like they are trying to play the 'sustainability card'. Rather than that, what they do is gradually incorporate these actions into their programmes, trips and so on.
4) What are the main challenges you face when organizing a sustainable trip?
Firstly, we try to choose the shortest or most direct route possible to the destination, in order to reduce pollution. With this I am not saying we do not pollute, because air travel makes that impossible, but we try to keep it as low as possible.
Then, when travelling across the country we are visiting, we try to use cars as little as possible, with many of the visits even made on foot, and we always try to avoid air travel. One example is Myanmar, where many routes and visits can be done in wooden barges, carts, and even, as I mentioned before, on foot, even if it requires a little more effort.
Secondly, we try to ensure the money stays within the local families. In Uzbekistan, for instance, we always visit two large families who always welcome us as if we were their relatives, teaching us how to cook the typical Uzbek Plov and inviting us into their dining rooms to eat with them as if we were part of the family.
The money we spend, instead of going to restaurants and intermediaries, stays there, and as they often live in isolated areas, this extra income is more than welcome by these families with small children in their care, others who go to school, etc, so really it’s a win-win situation
5) On an environmental level, what worries you most when organizing a trip?
Choosing the adequate hotels, services, routes... And also, perhaps, trying to get people to understand the concept. Everybody likes the word sustainable, but do they really strive to become sustainable?
I for one often search for hotels that respect the environment and contribute to it. In Africa, for example, there are many. And from time to time I travel to faraway places where despite staying in a five-star hotel, lets say the generator occasionally goes off, so people start complaining, without realizing that, if they just turned round and looked out of the window, they could enjoy a priceless sunrise or sunset.
6) As for their social impact, why do you consider your trips have a positive impact?
There are several fundamental reasons. Firstly, the routes are supervised by a specialized technician from Spain and are then optimized.
Secondly, it’s very unlikely for us to change suppliers at the destination -even if we are offered a cheaper option- because our people, with whom we have been working for years, know what we want and what we do not want.
And finally, because after so much travelling -last year I spent about five and a half months travelling around the World with different groups- I know very well what I want and how I want it. And here many factors converge such as the choice of routes, guides, accommodation, and so on.
7) Do you think people understand what sustainable travel is, and are willing to pay a little more for it?
That’s a very good question. Do you know what the problem is? We all like to think we are sustainable, but it’s when you really see it when you understand what it means. For instance, one of the countries I know best is Ethiopia. Last year I lost sales on my trip because other similar options were cheaper. Why? Because I’m not going to haggle with an Ethiopian guide over his fee even though the lack of work in the country would make it easy. I want a good service from a good professional and to pay him what is fair.
I refuse to stay at hotels with no ethics or health standards. I've seen many hotels where people -even children- are paid to get on their knees and scrub the floors, and I am not going to promote them no matter how much cheaper their offer is. The places I visit, the restaurants I dine at and the hotels I stay at must be fair and ethical towards their staff; otherwise I don't want them on my trips and expeditions. Sure, it would save me a lot of money and I could offer the final customer a cheaper package, but would it really be sustainable? You need ethics to be sustainable.
We are proud to be working with El Naturalista. Thanks to this collaboration we have been able to create a comfortable and resistant high-quality shoe in Spain.
What led you to innovating in sustainable footwear?
Since we started back in 1998 sustainability has been part of El Naturalista’s DNA. Searching for new materials and designing in the most eco-friendly and honest way, drawing inspiration from nature, is integral to each of our models.
Which challenges do you face when designing and manufacturing sustainable footwear?
Finding the balance between the materials we use whilst offering a wide and diverse collection. We need more than 30 different components when manufacturing a pair of shoes, and quite often the most sustainable options are not the most durable or quality ones. We aim for a balance between sustainability, comfort, quality and durability. Our brand philosophy is to make our footwear last as long as possible.
What do you think makes El Naturalista stand out from other footwear brands? What makes you unique?
Our inspiration comes from nature, and the soles of our products are unique; they always tell a story in which the texture is part of the design. We have a model called Angkor, with a rocky pattern that radiates nature; our Borago soles have some starflower leaves that create a unique texture; the texture of our Yggdrasil models recreates the bark of the Tree of Life, and so on.
What would you emphasise of your collaboration with Canussa?
Our connection and our shared passion when striving to achieve an honest product. The continuous communication flow and our enthusiasm for working with others have also been remarkable.
Since we met, this union and esteem have created, as I like to say, a great travel companion.
Why do you consider yourself a sustainable brand?
We try to be sustainable from the very beginning. When we think of a new product we search for a theme for its sole and we incorporate and test the new materials and technologies. Usually the improvements in sustainability come from other industrial sectors or from the textile world, as in these areas they are easier to achieve than in the footwear industry.
I like to say that we are eco-friendly, because many times, at the end of its lifecycle, a less ‘sustainable’ product has proven to be superior to a supposedly better one. How does one measure a product’s sustainability? Do we believe everything we’re told? How is everything certified in a fair manner, from the origin of each material to its production, the logistics, its social impact? What effect does the offshoring of the production have? And so on.
This may sound confusing, but it’s a subject in which nothing is black and white. We want to be transparent and tell our brand philosophy, creation process, materials, and strive to make our footwear meet any person’s expectations for a long time, so when they buy one of our products they feel they have paid a fair price for it. Quality, comfort, durability, price and satisfaction are the main values of our brand.
What does your collaboration with Save the Med consist of?
Sea Project and Save the Med stem from an idea, a collaboration, with a friend, Alfonso, who runs Innovarty, an innovation consulting firm, his concern for the environment and his love for the Mediterranean. Sea Project is the creation of a sneaker that is ground-breaking in its use of recycled and eco-friendly materials. For instance, the soles of these sneakers contain recovered fishing nets, and use a fabric made with seaweed. The reinforcements are biodegradable and with components made with recycled wood, cotton and PET. But the main thing is that by purchasing our shoes, customers are collaborating with Save the Med. Save the Med will soon have an office on the Costa Blanca and El Naturalista will make its first contribution towards awareness and conservation of the Mediterranean Sea.
Do you think it’ll be possible to create totally circular footwear? Which challenges do you face?
Our main challenge is to create circular footwear. We are working on it, and are going to start a European project in order to establish how to do so. The difficult part is making anything we want to do exportable to the whole word; if that is not achieved, circularity will never be a reality.
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She realized that it is a fact that many women work every day in environments that have dress codes that although unwritten must be followed, and choosing what to wear each morning becomes quite a challenge. Not only for your “look of the day” election but also for your economy.
Ms Worker helps women to have a timeless capsule wardrobe with fewer and better-quality clothes with the extra value of an eco-design, adding to the saying of less is better.
WHY DID YOU DECIDE TO SPECIALIZE IN SUSTAINABLE FASHION?
More than a decade ago, my purpose was to create my own fashion brand. I prepared myself to face a change in my profession, first, studying all I could about fashion (I still do) and after, working in the fashion industry.
During this journey, delving into different aspects of fashion and practices I saw in the business, I became more conscious, I transformed from a shopaholic mallrat and unconcerned fast fashion buyer to a more demanding consumer, paying attention to natural and organic fibres, a good design, valuing the quality in the confection, in short, I learnt to value all the work behind a garment. So, when I took the step of forming my own brand, I knew there was another way of doing things, Ms Worker had to be conceived from the beginning with sustainable values.
WHAT ARE THE MAIN CHALLENGES YOU FACE?
One of the main challenges I face is production costs, and consequently our prices. We are a small brand, so buying directly from fabric manufacturers is quite difficult, we must be able to offer at least some variety of textures and colours and because we would like to have the most possible transparency of the production chain, we choose intermediaries that have GOTS or TENCEL or GRS certificated fabrics, and this makes it more expensive. Also, our dresses are sewn in Madrid, we know who sews them, and under which labour conditions, and here, salaries for a job well done are much higher than in developing countries.
Summarizing, recycled or organic materials and manufacture in Europe it is not cheap, and we have to be able to communicate it to our customers and this is the second challenge, most people are aware about what they eat, or they are concerned about the environmental problems of the use of plastic, but we are still far from understanding the environmental and social cost of the fast fashion industry. Now sustainability is a trend and it must be very difficult for costumers to distinguish what is real from what is greenwashing, communication is a big challenge we have and that we still do not face well.
The last challenge we are facing is COVID19, we started this adventure in 2020 and the world in which Ms Worker was thought and planned does not exist anymore, a large part of the population works from home and social events have almost disappeared, so till things return to something similar to our past normality, we started to make face masks and now we are developing two home-friendly designs.
WHAT MAKES MS WORKER DIFFERENT?
I was talking about sustainability as one of our brand values, but we hope that in the future this will be the norm. So, I think that a brand must be attractive by itself. Our designs are desirable because they make the women that wear them feel pretty and confident without losing comfort, for example, all our dresses have pockets, a simple but very practical point.
I love when a woman tries on a Ms Worker dress and smiles at herself in front of the mirror, I feel that I have done a good job, when I design a dress I always think about how stylize women bodies. I want to contribute to women standing strong during their day forgetting their insecurities, and not worrying about their appearance, even more, I want them to feel empowered and feminine at the same time.
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It’s a familiar process, tech stuff goes in the laptop bag while personal items and belongings are carried in a separate shoulder bag. Sound familiar?
It certainly looks familiar wherever you go, especially throughout the working day when people have flights or trains to catch, places to be and deadlines to meet. Carrying two bags, or more, is the norm for the modern, professional woman but it isn’t exactly practical, is it?
In fact, we’d go as far as saying that carrying two bags at once is a hassle and a downright inconvenience. It doesn’t make for a streamlined look either. So that’s why the idea of one functional bag designed to accommodate everything at once sounds so much easier.
We’ll admit, we’ve never mastered the art of travelling light. Life is simply too busy to fit into a compact purse. Work is not confined to a 9-5 routine either, which means we often go straight from the office to an after-work occasion without pausing to swap one bag for another or leave our laptop bag at the office. It is everything or nothing in our world.
This is because our work life balance has overlapped and changed, and we’ve adapted to a “new norm”, which means our bag expectations are higher than ever. We want premium quality designs that are built to last and look even better over time.
We also want the right size – enough pockets and separate compartments to store everything, including our tech possessions, so we never waste time searching through our bags to find a lipstick, a pen, or our keys. Our items perfectly stored in a designated place, within fingertip reach, is the ultimate convenience for the modern woman.
Canussa bags are all about convenience, functionality, and superb design. This means carrying two bags at once is no longer necessary. One Canussa bag is everything and more. There is room for a laptop, phone, charger, tech accessories, water bottle, and all the must-haves that go with us during the day. Better still, these high-end vegan leather bags are considered sustainable too, thanks to artisan craftsmanship and the use of eco-friendly fabrics wherever possible.
Two bags at once? No thanks, not when one perfectly functional, beautiful (and sustainable) one will do.
It looks like sustainable fashion is becoming trendy, which is really good for the environment, but we still see many consumers confused about what being a truly sustainable brand means. Are we sustainable because we use “sustainable fabrics”? Well, that isn’t nearly enough for us here at Canussa. Being sustainable is much more complex than simply using eco-friendly fabrics. We actually don’t like saying we’re 100% sustainable, we aim to be as sustainable as possible, and because of this we work every day in every area of our business with a clear objective; the objective of having the least negative impact on the environment and to have the highest positive impact on society.
To understand what it really means to be and act in a sustainable way it’s imperative to understand what being sustainable means. So, what does it mean? We would like to start with the ecological definition of sustainability. The definition of sustainability we relate to the most is the one that originated from the Brundtland Report in 1987. Also called Our Common Future, the publication was released by the World Commission on Environment and Development (WCED) and it introduced the concept of sustainable development and described how it could be achieved. Within the report, sustainable development consists in satisfying the needs of the present without adversely affecting the conditions for future generations.
The report highlighted the interconnectedness of economic, social and ecological processes and was the foundation of the three-dimensional concept. This concept is based on the three connected dimensions of environment, society and economy.
At Canussa, we believe that in order to work towards a sustainable development, we have to adopt the triple bottom line framework, so in order to be a sustainable company, on top of being profitable to survive, we also want to measure the environmental and social impacts.
Do you want to find out more, have a look at our article related to benefits of local production.
Furthermore, from the environmental point of view, we are working on using fabrics that are as respectful as possible to the environment while being fabrics that are recycled, if possible, and of course can be recycled. To us, fabrics also have to have high resistance as we believe one of the issues that fast fashion is generating to the environment is the trash generated from clothes and garments that have low quality and are probably thrown away after a few uses.
The two key objectives we are currently working on and we hope to achieve very soon are:
Finally, we would like to highlight this statement: Environmental sustainability doesn’t mean living without luxuries but rather being aware of your resource consumption and reducing unnecessary waste. So, at Canussa we want to create beautiful and functional accessories made with long lasting upcycled textiles that can be recycled at the end of their lives.
Sources: Brundtland Report 1987, Federal Office for Spatial Development ARE
]]>Life is a juggling act at the best of times, more so when we’re working, travelling, and generally on the move throughout the day. Our goal is to create high-end functional bags in a beautiful design using the highest quality eco-friendly fabrics currently available.
Functional design
Our well-structured bags feature a deep, padded compartment to hold and protect technology, such as a laptop. There is a slim section for paperwork and lined internal pockets for a tablet, phone and charger. Zipped compartments within the bag keep personal belongings safe and secure while the smaller pockets are ideal for keys, passport, and wallet. Canussa bags are easy to carry while accommodating larger and smaller items without any fuss. We understand you want quick and direct access to whatever is in your bag. It’s not about tipping everything into one space, it is about a well-thought out interior and a focus on the finer details too.
Relaxed-modern style
These days, we’re seldom in one place for too long. More often than not, we travel, we discover, and we visit different locations to get the job done. Canussa has explored tried-and-tested designs to produce relaxed-modern bags for professionals on the move. We have created transitional bags that effortlessly take you from a meeting to after-work fun, the weekday to the weekend. Our smart-casual designs are specifically designed around day-to-evening activities and everything in between. We champion versatile style, too.
Sustainable
Exploring innovative eco-friendly fabric options is embedded in our DNA. We do believe that it is possible to obtain high quality and durable fabrics while being respectful to the environment. We carefully hand pick our suppliers in Southern Europe verifying that materials have been created with minimal environmental impact. Canussa strives to continue exploring and innovating with new eco-friendly fabrics.
Made in Spain by high skilled artisans
High quality leather goods require high specialization from artisans. In Spain we have some of the best skilled leather artisans in the world. The techniques needed to produce top-end quality bags passes down from generation to generation, most artisans learn these skills when they’re young by watching their parents at work. We wanted to have our bags created by local artisans while ensuring bags are made in safe and socially responsible workplaces. Our bags might take that little bit longer to produce but we truly believe that good things come to those who wait.
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Sustainable craftsmanship, attention to detail, and trusted techniques are not achieved overnight. Indeed, slow fashion is the ethos behind Canussa, a brand that makes handbags to keep and love forever, not to throw away after one season.This need for slow fashion is not unexpected because the discerning customer knows fast fashion is an exhausting issue and an environmental problem that can’t be ignored for much longer.
Quick clothing turnarounds and speedily produced collections to meet customer demand sound fresh and exciting but with cheaper, faster fashion there comes a temptation to throw away clothes and accessories after wearing them once or twice.
Whether it is down to fear of missing out on the next best trend, or simply because faster fashion has never been more affordable, it isn’t a sustainable habit because it hurts the environment over time.
It’s only when we stop to think about what happens to all the throwaway, low-cost clothes do we realise that sometimes more of everything is not necessarily a great thing, more so when tons of textiles are dumped in landfill instead of being recycled.
It isn’t just about a landfill problem either; producing textiles uses vast amounts of water, energy and chemicals.
The wear-it-once mindset is changing though, thanks to increasing focus on sustainable goals and slow fashion. Canussa looks to artisan workers to produce a range of functional, sustainable bags made from and eco-friendly fabrics.
Premium quality and functional design resulting in an eco-friendly bag with a smart-casual appearance is definitely worth the wait.
And yes, you can see great designs using vegan alternative to leather.
]]>The last decades, most brands have produced in Asia where costs are much lower than in Europe, so you might wonder why at Canussa we want to make our accessories locally in Spain and pay that extra cost. We do hope that there are and there will be more and more and more consumers who believe there is much more behind when producing locally and are happy to contribute to all the benefits that it implies. Unfortunately, many people are not aware of all the benefits of producing locally, and hope we manage to explain them all.
When we say we want to be sustainable, we truly want to be as sustainable as possible. We believe being sustainable is not just about fabrics. Of course, we want to use sustainable fabrics but we also need to think about the important of high quality and durability, being socially responsibly, the waste we generate during the production process and the carbon footprint.
Let’s start saying that in Spain we have got some of the best leather artisans in the world. The techniques needed to produce top-end quality bags passes down from generation to generation, most artisans learn these skills when they’re young by watching their parents at work. So, definitely by producing in Spain we can make the most of the experience of these high qualified artisans to produce long lasting and high quality accessories. One of the huge problems of the fashion industry is the durability, looks like garments are not produce any more to last. We do want our accessories to last and to promote a more responsible consumption. Isn’t that a good reason already to produce in Spain? Well, this was one reason to start with, there are more reasons that hopefully will make you value more the “Made in Spain” products.
Unfortunately, in Spain we have got one of the highest unemployment rates in Europe, so we are contributing to create jobs and improve local economy. In Europe there are more and more people concerned about the pensions and if we will be able to maintain the welfare stated. So, don’t you think by creating jobs in Spain and paying taxes in Spain we are not contributing to the problem, we are!
So, by producing locally in Spain it is much easier to ensure that the productions is made responsibly as we can have a close relationship with artisans and being in Spain we also know that employees have right: holidays, sick days allowance, … Rights that unfortunately do not exist yet in Asia.
Another issue within the fashion industry is the waste generated during the production process. We decided to acquire all of our fabrics locally in Spain, and we have agreed with them to send them back the waste produced during the production so we do not trough away any waste but to recycled any piece. If the production would not be local, it would be really difficult to manage to work on a Zero Waste model.
Last but not least, it is well known the issues that the CO2 is causing to the environment. We want to reduce as much as we can our footprint, so here you are, you have got another reason to produce locally, we are reducing our carbon footpath considerably as we get all our fabrics and production in Spain.
So, as conclusion, by producing Fashion Made in Spain we are ensuring high quality and long lasting products, we are being socially responsible and contributing to pay tax in Europe contributing to the European welfare estate, we can have a zero waste approach and we reduce our carbon footprint. So yes, producing in Spain and having local suppliers increase the costs of our accessories, is it worth the price?
]]>1) Where did the idea come from?
The idea developed in a pretty natural way. We both studied the same master’s degree and as a result we shared the same interests, such as human progress and the empathy of helping. We were also aware that we could not keep consuming the way we have been or living the same lifestyle.
After working in NGOs and Think Tanks in the world of politics, we realized that companies can also add real value to social progress, even though at times they’re demonized.
Throughout history we’ve seen that there is truly no other posible way to prosper but to change commerce and economic development.
Following this point of view, looking for the triple bottom line, Ecodicta was born. Initially we had the main objective of generating stable jobs in Spain but then we wanted also to give something back to society from our growth, into public health and education.
2) Why Fashion Sharing?
We believe that there are a lot of people and brands who are looking to share items, and base their decisions on shared values, and a common entity where brands and consumers with these same values could meet was missing.
The shared wardrobe allows us to promote sustainability as well as the brands that are already sustainable, and at the same time to help consumers who want to reduce the ecological footprint of their wardrobe. In addition, we can make people aware of the damage that fast fashion is causing to the environment.
Therefore, the Fashion Sharing Club is a tool of progress for the brands and also for our members.
3) What are the main challenges you are facing?
Currently we believe the most important challenge we face is those people who want a change and those who want to keep things the way they are. This means that all our efforts to become ever more sustainable are perceived by the consumer as something that everyone does, which is not right. Manufacturing 10% of stock with garments made of fabrics that are sustainable, or to add a basket to collect clothes are good and necessary actions, and we are happy to see some companies doing it, but it is not enough and it could remain superficial. Additionally, the real change has to happen, whether those companies want it or not.
In addition, we wanted to use sustainability as a positive tool for change, and not just focus on the negative reasons. By that we mean using the disasters or negativity associated with the deterioration of the environment. We believe that the journey towards sustainability, on top of being a must, is fundamentally about the creation of postive spaces and things, morally and spiritually; also the generation of new businesses that are profitable and have a social focus.
4) Do you think consumers are ready to share instead of purchase?
The truth is that when we started, consumers were not ready to share, but it is certainly changing. Thanks to the pioneers in sustainability, such as Paloma from MSMAD, or companies like Ecoalf, the path opened for the rest of the companies that came after, like us.
The work of journalists highlighting Fast Fashion during the last few years has also had an impact. It’s persuaded consumers to change their perception of the fashion industry and remove any prejudices towards models of sustainable fashion.
On the other hand, there were many consumers concerned about the environment, but in industries other than fashion.
Even if there is still a long way to go, the previous work done has enabled our company to be better perceived by consumers.
5) Why did you decide to include Canussa at Ecodicta?
From the beginnig, we primarily saw that the quality and design stood out, and we loved both. We did not focus so much at the beginning on how much work and effort went into the products, nor the sustainability credentials, but mainly it was the high quality materials and finishing, and the attention to the detail in the design.
Afterwards, we also saw that the bag was highly resistant and durable, we found it in great condition after each rental. We have Canussa bags that have been rented 14 times and look like new, which compares well to other brands with a similar or even higher price, that after 2 or 3 rentals we have had to remove from our shared wardrobe.
6) What do you like most about Canussa?
What we like most overall: sustainability, durability, design and quality. 4 factors that are perfectly melded in the brand
]]>The amount of pollution, the use of natural resources and waste that has been generated by the fashion industry are just not sustainable. The planet has been dramatically damaged due to an industry that has not taken into consideration the fact that natural resources are limited. Each garment that it is produced is generating greenhouse gases which is causing climate change not forgetting that the amount of waste generated during the process of production and at the end of the life of each product causes serious damages to the environment.
If we want to let new generations a planet where they can meet their needs, we just cannot keep consuming the way we have been consuming. As consumers, we have got the power to decide what, when and where to purchase a product, which has a massive impact into the environment and the society. As responsible consumers, we should check the working conditions under which a product has been made, which materials have been used, the quality and durability, the carbon footprint generated… and act accordingly.
During the past decades, Fast Fashion has been promoting impulse buying and the general overconsumption of unnecessary purchases, throughout low cost promotions and programmed obsolescence. Black Friday is one example of a way to push impulsive sales by offering deep discounts.
There are many reasons why we say no to Black Friday, here you can find some reasons why you should say no to Black Friday:
At Canussa, we just say no to join a marketing practice that push overconsumption generating unnecessary pollution and waste while reducing the capability of small business to survive.
Do not buy it if you do not need!
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