5 Ways We Have Made Sustainable Progress So Far
Since we refocused our 2025 strategy, we have been working hard to weave sustainability as a common thread through our whole identity, allowing us to embrace accountability as a brand. We want to do more to address modern slavery and decent working conditions, tackle in-work poverty and foster an inclusive society and we’re committed to change. As well as this, we are constantly taking active steps to reduce the environmental footprint of our industry and become more responsible – here are some of the progressions we have made so far.
The sustainable trainer project
Trainers have always been an all-season footwear staple for us at Whistles, so when it came to developing three new designs, sustainability, craftsmanship, and innovation played a fundamental part in each stage of the design process. Our latest pairs combine regenerated wool, a blend of recycled polyester, and recycled rubber for the soles, in timeless designs that are in line with our collections.
The ongoing sourcing of responsible fibres
Our teams are looking at a more responsible design process that goes beyond just aesthetic and tactile considerations, taking into account material choices that promote a more sustainable life-cycle for clothing. We’ve already introduced a range of new responsible fibres within our collections and we’ve set goals to source a minimum of 80% responsibly sourced cotton, polyester, and viscose by 2025.
Sustainable swimwear
When crafting our swimwear, we always seek materials that are strong and supple, provide excellent elasticity and comfort, whilst being lightweight and soft to the touch – and nylon offers all of these features. As part of our evolving commitment to address the environmental impacts of our materials, we have begun to introduce recycled nylon into our collections – starting with swimwear. By offsetting the production of new virgin fibres, we are reducing our reliance on fossil fuels and regenerating nylon waste into new nylon fibre.
Traceable Cashmere
We are proud to now offer fine quality pure cashmere, which has been controlled at every manufacturing stage from goat to garment. A paper trail allows us to trace garments directly to the farm where the fibre originated, while our reputable yarn supplier is committed to providing high-quality cashmere that is tested throughout the process.
Responsible Wool Standard (RWS)
As we focus more on animal welfare, we have become certified to the Responsible Wool Standard (RWS), committing to high standards of respect and care for the animals that shape our products. The RWS is an international, voluntary standard that addresses animal welfare, traceability and land management. Its goal is to provide the industry with a tool to recognise the best practices of farmers; ensuring that wool comes from farms that have a progressive approach to managing their land, practice holistic respect for the welfare of the sheep and respect the Five Freedoms of animal welfare.
