Our Brand’s Journey in Sustainable and Ethical Fashion
Outland Denim was founded with a clear mission: to provide women who have experienced or are at risk of trafficking and other forms of modern slavery with training, employment, and career progression pathways. Our commitment to sustainable and ethical fashion is at the heart of everything we do.
Outland Denim was awarded B Corporation Status in 2018 in recognition of our efforts. This prestigious designation signifies that we meet high standards of verified performance, accountability, and transparency in areas such as employee benefits, charitable giving, supply chain practices, and input materials. As one of the highest-ranked B Corporations globally, we continually strive to pioneer positive and impactful change. This drive has led us to develop a comprehensive sustainability philosophy and set rigorous sustainability standards.
Sustainable Practices We Follow
One of the cornerstones of Outland Denim’s sustainable practices is our ability to trace our entire denim supply chain from seed to garment. This transparency allows us to understand the impact of every farm and person involved in our production processes, ensuring sustainability and ethical practices at every stage.
In 2019, we took a significant step by investing in our own washhouse and finishing facility. This has given us greater control over our environmental impact, as the facility is equipped with industry-leading water and energy-saving technology. This ensures that each denim garment produced by Outland Denim has a substantially reduced environmental footprint.
Additionally, we have integrated sustainable practices such as using certified safe chemicals, natural indigo dyes, and organic raw materials. By eliminating harmful pesticides, we lower the environmental impact of our land use, promoting healthier ecosystems.
Ensuring Our Operations Are Ethical
The ethical treatment of all individuals is fundamental. We were founded to provide employment opportunities for those affected by human trafficking and slave labour. We only work with suppliers who meet our stringent sustainability criteria to ensure that we uphold our ethical standards.
Our commitment to fair wages and safe working conditions is unwavering. By partnering with entities that provide evidence of ethical practices, we help break the cycle of exploitation and underpayment that plagues the garment industry. This dedication to ethical operations extends to every aspect of our supply chain, ensuring our values are reflected in all our partnerships.
Our Goals and Vision for the Future in Terms of Sustainability
The statistic that one in every 130 women and girls on the planet lives in modern slavery is a sobering reminder of why we must continue to strive for better. Our future vision is centred around expanding research opportunities to implement cleaner operations on a broader scale.
Investing in our people remains a top priority. With 80% of our staff reporting improved mental health and 62% reporting a heightened sense of achievement, we understand the importance of providing pathways for training and advancement. This commitment ensures that our operations remain ethical and sustainable long into the future.
At Outland Denim, our journey is one of continuous improvement and dedication to making a positive impact. By championing sustainable and ethical fashion, we aim to create a better world for everyone involved in the fashion industry, from the farmers and garment workers to the consumers who wear our clothes. We can drive change and set new standards for a more just and sustainable future.
