SUSTAINABILITY

Microplastics in textiles are a significant environmental concern. A comprehensive 2019 report by the University of Glasgow highlights the complex effects of microplastics, noting the challenge posed by differing methodologies and results across various studies. This disparity makes it difficult to form a unified approach. At Nordenstjerne, we address this through a multi-faceted strategy focused on sustainability and responsibility.

 

1. Raw Materials: We rely on ECONYL® from Aquafil, a high-esteemed Italian company renowned for their commitment to improving environment and climate. ECONYL® is a regenerated nylon made from waste materials such as fishnets and carpet scraps. This innovative material not only helps in reducing waste but also has a 90% reduced global warming impact compared to conventional nylon. You can read more about their efforts here.

 

 

2. Weaving Process: Our fabrics are produced by an OEKO-TEX certified Italian mill, which adheres to the strictest EU environmental regulations. OEKO-TEX certification ensures that our textiles meet high safety and environmental standards, giving our customers confidence in the quality and sustainability of our products. By choosing a certified mill, we ensure that our fabrics are produced in a way that minimizes environmental impact.

 

 

3. Manufacturing: During the manufacturing process, we use advanced laser cutting to minimize microplastic release. Laser cutting seals the edges of the fabric, preventing fiber shedding and ensuring that our garments are durable and long-lasting. This method significantly reduces the release of microplastics into the environment during production.

 

 

4. Usage Recommendations: To further reduce microplastic shedding during the usage phase, we recommend:

• Washing garments at the lowest possible temperature
• Using minimal detergent, preferably liquid
• Avoiding tumble drying
• Washing garments as infrequently as possible

We have based these recommendations on published research. It is a cross-section of a range of different studies focusing on a variety of textile materials in each their own way. Looking at the broad trends, lower temperatures and less detergent appear to help minimize the release of microfibers. By following these guidelines, our customers can reduce their environmental impact and prolong the life of their garments.

 

 

5. End-of-Life Management: We are also focused on the end-of-life stage of our garments. We plan to implement a take-back system in collaboration with Aquafil to regenerate worn-out ECONYL® garments. This initiative will allow us to recycle and regenerate the nylon, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy. Aquafil is developing a return system that will enable us to send back used Nordenstjerne clothing for recycling. This ensures that our garments do not end up in landfills and can be transformed into new, high-quality products.

 

 

The challenge of "post-consumer textiles" arises from the fact that fabrics often consist of multiple fiber types, making recycling complex. In our case, ECONYL®/polyamide is blended with elastane/polyurethane. Despite these challenges, we chose this blend for its durability and flexibility, ensuring that our garments last for many years. While Aquafil works on solutions to separate these fibers for recycling, we aim to incentivize our customers to return their used garments for regeneration.

 

Our strategy at Nordenstjerne is to create high-quality, durable clothing that our customers will want to keep for many years, thus reducing the frequency of disposal and minimizing microplastic pollution. We look to science (academics and peer-reviewed publications) in the effort to stay ahead of trends and adjust our strategies as needed. Our commitment to transparency and responsibility means that we continuously seek the best possible solutions for sustainable fashion.

 

 

We hope this comprehensive overview demonstrates our will to tackling the microplastic challenge and our dedication to creating a more sustainable future. At Nordenstjerne, we believe that every step counts, and we are committed to making a positive impact on the environment through responsible, sensible fashion practices.

Washing and caring for your clothes in a sustainable way can both extend the life of your clothes and reduce their environmental impact. Here is what you can do:

Wash your clothes less frequently💧

It's not always necessary to wash clothes after each use. Consider airing them out or spraying them with a fabric freshener. We recently launched Pure Effects Textile Spray on our webshop as a means to make frequent washing unnessecary.

Wash your clothes at a lower temperature

Wash your clothes at a lower temperature as it reduces energy consumption and protects the colors of the clothes. Also, wash your clothes on a shorter cycle to save water and energy.

Use environmentally friendly detergent

Use detergents that are environmentally friendly and contain fewer chemicals. Only use the amount of detergent that is necessary, and avoid bleach and fabric softeners. You can consider using a small amount of vinegar as a fabric softener.

Air dry your clothes

Dry your clothes by hanging them out to air dry instead of using a dryer. It saves energy and prevents damage to the clothes.

Recycle or donate your clothes

When you no longer use your clothes, consider recycling them or donating them to charity. This reduces the amount of waste and gives the clothes a new chance.

In the ever-evolving world of fashion, sustainability has become a crucial focus. Here are ten influencers who are making significant strides in promoting eco-friendly fashion and inspiring others to do the same.

The Magic of ECONYL

At Nordenstjerne, we are proud to incorporate ECONYL into our designs. ECONYL is a revolutionary polyamide made from nylon waste, including carpets, fabric scraps, fish nets, ropes, and industrial waste. Unlike traditional nylon, ECONYL is a high-quality and exclusive material that can be reused indefinitely. This innovative fabric boasts a 90% lower CO2 emission compared to conventional fabrics, making it a cornerstone of our commitment to sustainability.

 

A Stamp of Approval

Using ECONYL is not just about choosing a sustainable fabric; it’s about earning a mark of distinction. To work with ECONYL, brands must obtain a license that needs to be renewed every other year. This ensures that only those truly dedicated to sustainability can use this exceptional material, reinforcing our commitment to high standards and environmental responsibility.

European Craftsmanship

Nordenstjerne is dedicated to producing all our garments within the EU. Our thread, fabric, and staff are all based in Europe, ensuring high-quality production and fair labor practices. Our fabric is produced and woven in Italy, known for its rich textile heritage. The final garments are sewn in Romania, where we benefit from a high minimum wage, state-of-the-art machinery, and ergonomic workstations. This meticulous process ensures that every piece we create is crafted with care and precision.

 

Designed in Denmark

Our founder and designer, Alissia, designs every piece in Denmark. We focus on creating timeless designs that form the foundation of a sustainable wardrobe. By prioritizing timelessness, we help our customers build wardrobes that last, reducing the need for constant replacement and minimizing waste.

 

Protecting Biodiversity

Unlike natural fabrics such as cotton, which have a significant negative impact on biodiversity, ECONYL has no adverse effects on the environment. Cotton farming often involves the use of pesticides and large areas of land, leading to the destruction of forests, grasslands, and wetlands. This not only harms various species but also contributes to significant biodiversity loss. Additionally, cotton production consumes massive amounts of water and releases polluted water into rivers and lakes, further damaging ecosystems.

 

A Kindness Approach

At Nordenstjerne, kindness is at the heart of everything we do. We provide exceptional customer service and maintain kind and respectful communication with our vendors and production staff. Every part of our value chain is thoughtfully considered to ensure sustainability. For example, we minimize CO2 emissions by transporting our clothes via land rather than air.

By choosing Nordenstjerne, you are not only investing in high-quality, timeless fashion but also supporting a brand that prioritizes sustainability and kindness in every aspect of its operations. Join us in making a positive impact on the planet, one beautiful garment at a time.