Ecard

Considering More-than-Human Ecosystems

Considering non-humans in fashion ecosystems emphasizes the impact on the environment from the point of view of materials, production, supply chain, and ecology. The aim is to minimize environmental harm and conserve resources.

VET: What non-humans like insects, water systems or animals are affected by your whole process?

HEI: What more-than human ecosystems does your practice impact? How can you consider these ecosystems for mutual, regenerative, or sustainable benefits?


Considering more-than-human ecosystems in fashion involves a holistic approach that recognizes and respects the intricate relationships between human activities and broader ecological systems. This perspective moves beyond human-centered design to include the well-being of non-human entities, such as animals, plants, insects, water systems, and other elements of the natural environment. The aim is to create fashion products and practices that minimize environmental harm, conserve resources, and promote ecological balance. Incorporating more-than-human principles into fashion requires an understanding of the impact of materials, production processes, and the supply chain. Designers and brands must evaluate how their choices affect ecosystems and seek alternatives that reduce negative consequences. This includes selecting sustainable materials, such as organic fibers or recycled fabrics, and adopting production methods that minimize waste, reduce pollution, and protect biodiversity. Furthermore, this approach encourages critical thinking about the lifecycle of products—from raw material extraction to disposal—and their environmental impact. By considering more-than-human ecosystems, fashion brands can develop practices that enhance planetary health, such as using regenerative agriculture, supporting ethical wildlife interactions, and reducing water and energy consumption. A key aspect of this approach is the shift from a linear to a circular economy. In a circular economy, products are designed with their end-of-life in mind, allowing them to be reused, repurposed, or recycled, thus reducing waste and conserving resources. This aligns with sustainability principles and acknowledges the interdependence of all life forms within an ecosystem. Adopting this mindset allows fashion brands to create products that not only meet human needs but also respect and preserve the natural world. It fosters responsibility and stewardship, encouraging both brands and consumers to make choices that benefit people and the planet. This approach challenges the traditional fast-fashion model, advocating for slower, more thoughtful consumption patterns that prioritize quality, durability, and environmental integrity.

Case Studies

Gucci’s Equilibrium Program
Gucci’s Equilibrium program exemplifies a commitment to promoting biodiversity within its broader sustainability efforts. This initiative includes responsible sourcing of raw materials, protecting endangered species, and supporting regenerative agriculture that enhances biodiversity. Notably, Gucci has committed to eliminating leather sourced from the Amazon and instead supports sustainable leather production practices that protect ecosystems and wildlife habitats.
Read more about Gucci’s Equilibrium Program

Fourth Element’s Ocean Positive Collection
Fourth Element, a brand specializing in scuba diving gear, has developed the OceanPositive collection, which utilizes recycled fishing nets and other marine debris. Fishing nets, a significant form of ocean plastic, continue to trap marine life long after disposal. By incorporating recycled ocean plastics into their wetsuits, swimwear, and other gear, Fourth Element aids more-than-human ecosystems by cleaning up oceans and reducing the demand for virgin materials.
Read more about Fourth Element’s Ocean Positive Collection

Nuuwaï’s Holistic Approach
Nuuwaï demonstrates a holistic commitment to reducing environmental impact through eco-friendly materials and sustainable production methods. By focusing on biodegradable and recycled materials, minimizing waste, and supporting regenerative agriculture, Nuuwaï reflects a deep understanding of ecological interconnectedness. The brand’s transparency and ethical practices highlight how even small fashion brands can play a crucial role in fostering ecological balance and protecting biodiversity.
Read more about Nuuwaï’s Holistic Approach

References

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  • Carvalho, R., & Silva, L. (2021). Ethical sourcing and the protection of biodiversity in fashion supply chains. Ecological Economics, 181, 106865.

  • Fletcher, K., & Tham, M. (2021). Fashion and the more-than-human: Exploring new approaches to sustainability. Sustainability: Science, Practice and Policy, 17(1), 12-23.

  • Gao, Q., & Li, Y. (2023). Circular economy and sustainable fashion: Reducing environmental impact through holistic design. Fashion and Sustainability Journal, 10(3), 57-69.

  • Gibson, K., & Irwin, R. (2022). Material ecologies in fashion: Understanding the impacts of production on non-human entities. Journal of Cleaner Production, 353, 131546.

  • Gucci. (2023). Impact report 2023. Gucci Equilibrium.

  • Hethorn, J., & Ulasewicz, C. (2021). Sustainable fashion: What role do more-than-human considerations play? Journal of Fashion Technology & Textile Engineering, 9(2), 82-91.

  • McKinsey & Company. (2023). Biodiversity: The next frontier in sustainable fashion.

  • Niinimäki, K., et al. (2020). The environmental price of fast fashion. Nature Reviews Earth & Environment, 1(4), 189-200.

  • Santos, R., & Franco, A. (2022). Fashion and biodiversity: How ethical interactions can shape sustainable practices. Journal of Sustainable Development, 15(1), 112-125.

  • Steiner, L., & Thomason, J. (2022). Small fashion brands and their impact on ecosystems: The case of Nuuwaï. Journal of Sustainable Fashion, 8(1), 55-70.

  • Tuzunkan, O., & Öztürk, S. (2022). From linear to circular: Fashion’s role in promoting regenerative economies. Sustainable Production and Consumption, 28, 67-79.

  • Wagner, M., & Reemtsma, T. (2022). Sustainable diving: Fourth Element’s use of recycled ocean plastics. Journal of Sustainable Tourism, 30(5), 879-895.

  • Williams, C., & Martin, R. (2021). Regenerative practices in fashion: A new paradigm for sustainability. Journal of Fashion Marketing and Management, 25(4), 592-607.

  • Ziegler, J. A., & Reed, L. J. (2021). From ghost nets to wetsuits: Fourth Element’s commitment to marine conservation. Marine Pollution Bulletin, 173, 113009.