Understanding the Three Pillars of Sustainability in Fashion

Sustainability in fashion is a vital topic that intertwines environmental, social, and economic concerns. As consumers become more aware of their choices, the importance of sustainable practices in the fashion industry grows. This guide explores the three fundamental pillars of sustainability: environmental, social, and economic, and highlights how they work together to create a more responsible fashion ecosystem.

The Environmental Pillar: The Importance of Natural Fibers

At the core of sustainable fashion lies an environmental commitment. Choosing natural, certified fibers not only ensures product quality and durability but also minimizes environmental impact. Natural fibers are biodegradable and decompose more easily in nature.

Key Certifications Supporting Sustainable Choices:

  • OEKO-TEX® Standard 100: Ensures that textiles are free from harmful substances.
  • BCI (Better Cotton Initiative): Promotes sustainable agricultural practices and fair labor conditions in cotton production.
  • FSC® (Forest Stewardship Council): Certifies that cellulose fibers, like viscose, come from responsibly managed forests.

The Social Pillar: Commitment to Ethics and Well-Being

Social sustainability focuses on fair labor practices, decent working conditions, and respect for human rights throughout the supply chain. Brands like Min prioritize partnerships with suppliers who uphold these values, ensuring ethical practices are at the forefront.

Key Aspects of Social Sustainability:

  • Fair wages for workers.
  • Safe working conditions.
  • Respect for human rights across the supply chain.

The Economic Pillar: Balancing Sustainability and Financial Viability

Economic sustainability seeks to balance environmental and social responsibility with financial viability. Investing in quality materials and efficient processes leads to durable products, minimizes excessive consumption, and promotes long-term sustainability.

Sustainability Indicators from Min (2024/2025):

  • 91% of fabrics are certified by recognized international bodies.
  • 89% carry the OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, free from toxic substances.
  • 35% of cotton fibers are BCI certified.
  • 70% of fabrics are free from plastic, with no synthetic fibers.
  • 62% of textile bases are composed of 100% natural, biodegradable fibers.
  • 90% of trims and packaging are plastic-free, including seed tags that can grow vegetables when planted.

Local Labor: Roots that Sustain

Min believes that sustainability starts locally. By valuing local production, the brand fosters ethical and cultural partnerships.

Highlights of Local Production:

  • 100% of products are made in Brazil, strengthening the national industry.
  • 79% of production occurs within 60 km of Rio de Janeiro, reducing fossil fuel consumption and pollution.
  • Regular visits to suppliers ensure product quality and respect for labor conditions.

Artisan Processes: Time as Technology

Each collection from Min embodies a pause in time, focusing on manual techniques that counter mass production. This approach revives ancestral knowledge and emphasizes craftsmanship.

Examples of Artisan Techniques:

  • Hand-dyed batik.
  • Sisal crochet.
  • Hand-stitched embroidery.

Collaborations with local collectives, such as Casa Amarela and Crochetando Vidas, highlight community resilience and income generation.

Biodegradable Materials: What Are They?

Biodegradable materials decompose naturally due to microorganisms, reintegrating into the environment without toxic residues. They typically originate from plant, mineral, or animal sources.

Biodegradation Timeframes:

  • Fresh vegetables: 5 to 30 days
  • Paper and cardboard: 3 to 6 months
  • Natural fiber fabrics: 3 to 6 months
  • Leather and nylon: up to 30 years
  • PET: over 100 years
  • Polyester/Polyamide: 60 to 200 years
  • Disposable diapers: up to 450 years
  • Glass: over 4,000 years
  • Rubber: indeterminate time

Compostable Materials: How Do They Work?

Compostable materials are a subset of biodegradable materials that require specific conditions (oxygen, moisture, warmth, and microorganisms) to turn into nutrient-rich compost. The composting process can take 90 days to 3 years.

End Result:

The process results in CO₂, biomass, and humus, enriching the soil and completing a natural cycle.

Why We Reduce Polyester Use

Min approaches sustainability with a conscious mindset rather than radical measures. While polyester has useful properties like durability and low cost, its environmental impact is significant.

Environmental Concerns Associated with Polyester:

  • Derived from petroleum, releasing VOCs and heavy metals.
  • Contributes to microplastic pollution during use and washing.
  • Takes 60 to 200 years to decompose and is rarely recycled properly.

By focusing on natural fibers and reducing synthetic use, Min helps lower microplastic emissions and promotes regenerative practices.

In conclusion, embracing the three pillars of sustainability—environmental, social, and economic—creates a more responsible fashion industry. By making informed choices, both consumers and brands can contribute to a sustainable future.