Sustainability

I'm always looking for ways to minimise TBKT's impact on the planet. With 80% of ocean pollution coming from land, I recognize the importance of minimizing waste produced (including chemicals) and not contributing to the global pollution problem!

T-shirts & tote bags

Printed in Australia, using eco-friendly water based inks. My apparel is made by EarthPositive (one of the most sustainable clothing manufacturers), based in India and using only organic cotton. The entire production process is controlled and certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS). The facility has state of the art infrastructure, works with Fair Work Foundation to ensure workers safety rights and dignified and properly paid employment, and is totally powered by wind and solar renewable energy. More info here.

"Earth Positive is a multi-award-winning consumer brand of low carbon apparel created to help combat the climate crisis." 

Why not organic cotton from Australia? The truth is that 98% or more of cotton farmers in Australia use Genetically Modified crops, making it extremely difficult for ethical clothing brands to source organic cotton that is readily available and affordable. India is one of the biggest suppliers of organic cotton in the world, and I have been extremely careful in selecting a company that source their raw materials in the most sustainable way possible.

Occasionally I've had to source stock from AS Colour in cases of limited EarthPositive availability. As Colour is committed to providing high-quality and socially responsible products using ethical labour practices in factories that meet its strict standards. I source only organic cotton, also certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS).

Beanies

crafted by TheCommonGoodCompany in Melbourne using 100% recycled materials. Repurposing at its finest! How? Repreve® yarn is spun from recycled water-bottles, weaving them into a beautiful beanie. By recycling materials, unnecessary waste is eliminated, as well as reduced water usage, land use and pollution that is typically involved with the production of yarns made from virgin materials. 

Scrunchies (coming soon)

I'm collaborating with an Australian quilt company to turn their excess waste into something practical and kind to the ocean (enter ocean-themed hair scrunchies).

Packaging

I'm super proud to be using Hero home-compostable postage bags, which are made out of cornstarch and PBAT (a compostable ingredient which bonds the renewable ingredients together). Reuse the bag or mix straight into your garden/compost at home! In a home-compostable environment these will completely break down within 90-120 days (sometimes sooner!). Avoid putting them in the bin as they can't break down naturally due to the deprived oxygen, releasing deadly methane.

Other bits

• Business cards from The Environmental Printing Company (100% recycled paper and vegetable based inks)
• Hero Packaging compostable shipping labels, EcoEnclose recycled tape (had for years, aiming to switch to compostable when done!)
• I try to find market items second hand. E.g., my gazebo and most of my decorations have been sourced this way
• Reusing old cardboard/paper to write thank you notes to every customer
• Making my own clothing tags via recycled cardboard