5 Ways That Businesses Can Prioritise Sustainability
In today’s business landscape, sustainability isn’t just a trend – it’s a necessity.
Prioritising sustainable practices offers a range of benefits to companies, including cost savings, enhanced brand reputation, improved employee satisfaction, and increased customer loyalty.
One of the most impactful ways to integrate sustainability into your business strategy is through the adoption of sustainable workwear and custom uniforms.
Here at Jermyn Street Design, we have specialised in crafting bespoke uniforms tailored to the unique needs of the hospitality industry for over 40 years. Through our commitment to ESG in our uniform designs, we are proud to help other businesses lead the way in sustainable practices.
Understanding the Importance of Sustainable Workwear
What is Sustainable Workwear?
Sustainable workwear refers to clothing designed with environmental responsibility in mind. This involves using eco-friendly materials, ethical manufacturing processes, and ensuring the garments have a long lifespan.
In today’s eco-conscious environment, sustainable workwear is not just a statement; it’s a commitment to reducing your business’s carbon footprint.
What are the Benefits of Sustainable Workwear?
- Reduced environmental impact, thanks to the eco-friendly materials and production methods intrinsic to the creation of sustainable workwear.
- Long-term cost savings, as the durability and quality of the materials used means uniforms need replacing less frequently.
- Boosted employee wellbeing and satisfaction, since employees know their company is taking steps to protect the environment while also prioritising them with comfortable and practical custom uniforms.
- Improved employee engagement and productivity, spurred on by the knowledge that the company aligns with their personal sustainability values.
- Enhanced brand image and loyalty from customers who increasingly favour brands that demonstrate a commitment to sustainability.
5 Ways to Prioritise Sustainability Through Custom Workwear
1. Investing in Sustainable Workwear
Current trends in sustainable workwear show that leading hospitality companies are increasingly adopting practices that align with their environmental values. JSD has been at the forefront of these trends, offering custom uniforms that not only meet the highest standards of sustainability but also cater to the specific needs of our clients in the hospitality industry.
For example, by designing timeless, versatile, durable uniforms for luxury 5-star hotel Coworth Park, we helped them extend the lifecycle of their workwear. Our team also helped Eurostar switch to sustainable uniforms that still convey their iconic branding, but are made from more sustainable fabrics.
2. Choosing Eco-Friendly Materials
One of the most critical steps in creating sustainable workwear is choosing the right materials. There are several eco-friendly options available, each with its own environmental benefits:
- Organic Cotton: Our previous blog on recycled and organic cotton explains in detail why organic cotton is a popular choice for businesses aiming to reduce their environmental impact. It is grown without harmful pesticides or synthetic fertilisers, hypoallergenic, and less water-intensive compared to conventional cotton.
- Recycled Polyester: Made from recycled plastic bottles, which helps to reduce plastic waste, recycled polyester retains the durability and performance of traditional polyester but has a much lower carbon footprint.
- Bamboo: A highly sustainable crop that grows quickly without the need for pesticides, bamboo is also naturally antibacterial and biodegradable.
- Hemp: Known for its strength and durability, hemp requires minimal water and no pesticides to grow, and its fibres are longer-lasting than many other materials.
Many companies have successfully made the switch to eco-friendly materials for their uniforms. While industry experts note that the initial costs of eco-friendly materials might be higher, the long-term benefits, including enhanced brand image and customer loyalty, far outweigh the expenses.
3. Partnering with Sustainable Suppliers
Partnering with suppliers who are committed to sustainable practices is crucial in ensuring that your business’s sustainability goals are met and maintained. When evaluating potential suppliers, businesses should assess factors such as the supplier’s energy usage, carbon emissions, waste management practices, commitment to fair labour, ethical manufacturing processes, and their use of sustainable materials.
As a member of Common Objective, the leading global sustainable sourcing platform, JSD is deeply committed to sustainability. Our detailed Sustainability Policy sets out how we strive to minimise our environmental footprint when creating sustainable workwear for our clients, while also prioritising the health and safety of our employees.
4. Implementing Recycling Programs
A comprehensive approach to sustainable workwear includes implementing recycling programs for old uniforms. These programs are designed to collect, sort, and recycle textiles, diverting waste from landfills and conserving valuable resources.
Recycling textiles offers significant environmental benefits. For instance, recycling just one tonne of textiles can save 4.9 tonnes of CO2 emissions and save up to 20,000 litres of water. Many government and industry initiatives support recycling, making it easier for businesses to participate.
Implementing a recycling program within your company involves several steps. Start by setting up collection points for old uniforms, ensuring employees know where to drop off their garments. Next, partner with a recycling service that specialises in textiles to handle the sorting and recycling process. Communication is key – keep employees informed about the program and its benefits, and encourage their participation through regular updates and incentives.
5. Designing Custom Uniforms for Longevity
Designing custom uniforms with longevity in mind is another effective way to prioritise sustainability. By focusing on durability in custom uniforms, businesses can reduce the frequency of uniform replacements, thereby cutting down on waste and saving money in the long run.
Key design principles that enhance the longevity of custom uniforms include the use of reinforced stitching, durable fabrics, and timeless styles that won’t quickly go out of fashion. Businesses that invest in durable workwear often see a return on investment through reduced replacement costs and a more professional, consistent appearance. JSD works closely with our clients to design custom uniforms that not only reflect their brand’s identity but are also built to last, supporting long-term sustainability goals.
Improving Carbon Footprints For Businesses Around The World
As the importance of prioritising sustainability becomes more widely recognised around the world, the adoption of sustainable workwear and custom uniforms will play a crucial role in helping businesses across a variety of sectors to reduce their carbon footprints.
For companies looking to take the next step in their sustainability journey, JSD offers expert guidance on how to integrate eco-friendly practices into your workwear strategy.
To learn more about our sustainable workwear and custom uniforms, conduct a sustainability audit, or schedule a consultation, contact our experts today.
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