At Paper Label we focus on fabrics that are not only beautiful, but also sustainable. Textiles impact the environment in a number of different ways, so we think about the impact as a whole and try to choose fabrics that have the least negative effect on the earth. We consider water and pesticide usage during fiber growth, renewability of resources, energy and chemicals used during processing, disposal techniques, care requirements, fabric longevity, and biodegradability.
When it comes to caring for our earth, we acknowledge that the clothing industry is indeed a top contributor to plastic pollution, waste, and emissions. While we can’t change an entire industry, we will be moving toward a better future for fashion by designing with sustainable fabrics and reducing our waste.
From supply chains to the way we run the office and whom we partner with, we promote sustainability where we can. We've chosen the following fabrics because we believe they are the most sustainable options for what we are creating.
TENCEL™ fabrics are the core of our collections. TENCEL™ is a plant-based fiber with some out-of-this-world capabilities: it is moisture-wicking, durable, low-maintenance, and naturally inhibits the growth of bacteria. TENCEL™ fibers help to maintain the environmental balance by being integrated into nature´s cycle. The fibers originate from the renewable raw material wood, created by photosynthesis. The closed-loop production process of creating TENCEL™ fibers recycles process water and reuses the solvent at a recovery rate of more than 99%. The fibers are certified as compostable and biodegradable, and thus can fully revert back to nature. From their botanic origin to the low environmental impact of production, to eventual biodegradability on disposal, TENCEL™ fibers exemplify sustainability in the textile industry.
Linen is one of the most biodegradable and stylish fabrics in fashion history. Made from natural fibers (flax) - it is strong, naturally moth resistant, and does not require pesticides or chemicals like conventional cotton does. Linen can withstand high temperatures, and it absorbs moisture without holding bacteria. Since the flax fibers are long, linen fabrics have no pilling or lint issues.
Recycled materials, like our recycled polyester, divert trash from landfills and help give our waste a new life. Recycled polyester garments have all the benefits of using virgin polyester (durability, ease of care, and design benefits), without using new resources that have harmful effects on our planet. Recycled polyester not only contributes to the reduction of petroleum extraction, but it also consumes less energy than the regular method and allows for a much longer life cycle of the garment.
Our organic cotton is GOTS certified, meaning it has passed strict ecological and social criteria that is backed up by independent certification of the entire textile supply chain. Organic cotton is made from natural fibers, doesn't use pesticides or chemicals, and is biodegradable.
Hemp is a “bast fiber” which means it is a natural fiber derived from the stems of plants such as flax, jute, and stinging nettle. Hemp is a strong and long-lasting fiber that is easy to care for and gets softer with every wear. Hemp is a fast growing, low-maintenance crop that requires little or no pesticides and can yield two and a half times that of cotton in the same size field. The fabric has various natural advantages such as warmth in winter, cooling in summer and can even provide protection from UV rays.
Bamboo fibers come from the stem of the plant. It is a favourable material as it uses very little water in the growing process and no insecticides or herbicides. Much like other cellulose fibers, bamboo is soft to the touch, breathable, and easy to care for. Additionally, bamboo is antibacterial and hypoallergenic — excellent qualities for people with sensitive skin. 
After production we aim to minimize the impact of our small business. We continue our efforts to move away from virgin materials wherever possible and source the most environmentally-friendly packaging that will protect our product. We are committed to reducing plastic wherever we can and staying informed on new innovative opportunities to reduce the environmental impact of packaging.
Through our research of various packaging options, we landed on OceanPoly®. Paper Label now ships all garments in recyclable bags made with 50% recycled content with a minimum of 25% post-consumer Oceanpoly® material.
OceanPoly® is a long-term, economically sensible, and environmentally friendly solution to the growing marine plastic problem – a problem that can only be solved through our own actions and innovation. Choosing OceanPoly® products is making a commitment to help preserve our global ocean through empowering local populations and recycling harmful plastics before they enter our water. The plastic pollution problem is widespread and requires a partnership to create change. We all have a responsibility to act. Let’s make waves together.
You could say we're in a "long term commitment" with sustainability. We’re always striving to do better, learn more, and inspire people to think differently about the clothes we wear. Our commitment to a cleaner way of living and doing business has made us stronger and, like any good relationship, we take every day as it comes. We look forward to continuing to introduce more sustainable fibers and fabrics to our offering in upcoming seasons.
TODAY ONLY (April, 22nd 2021) USE CODE: EARTH-FIRST TO SAVE 20% OFF OUR SELECTION SUSTAINABLE STYLES
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Kangarama is a textile science and technology company developing anti-bacterial and anti-viral wear in the medical sector. Our technology-based fabrics are researched, refined, modified and tested to keep your scrubs free from microorganisms. For more details: https://kangarama.com/