Social & Environmental Responsibility
Our Practice
There are many complex challenges associated with the textile industry. We feel it is a shared responsibility as a collective to continuously improve how we create and operate as a small business.
Operating our small independent label in an ethically and environmentally conscious manner has always been at the forefront of our values. From day one we have only chosen to source and integrate natural & recycled fibres into our garments such as organic and recycled cotton, recycled polyester and hemp.
We intend to produce small runs in limited quantities to eliminate unnecessary waste and to promote circularity where quality garments continue to last for longevity. We want to be conscious about what we produce and what we consume in order to make a positive difference socially, ethically and environmentally in respect for the health and humanity of our planet.
Materials and Production
Our materials used for cut and sew have a lower environmental impact compared to conventional textiles. Our fabrics require fewer natural resources to develop and process, saving water and energy in their production. We take our time and slow things right down so we can work mindfully and build common ground amongst skaters for environmental consciousness.
Our garments are made from recycled materials including plastic bottles, reclaimed cotton, and upcycled fabrics, helping to create closed-loop systems where we can extend their life cycle. This helps keep them in use for as long as possible, pushing the concept of circularity. This approach reduces the amount of clothing that is destined to landfill and encourages consumers to view their wardrobes with more consideration and care.
Materials - Get to know
Why Organic Cotton?
100% of the cotton we use is GOTS certified organic cotton. We only choose to source organic cotton grown from seeds that have not been genetically modified (non-GMO) and cultivated without the use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers. This is so no harmful chemicals flow into the soil or into adjoining rivers, lakes or seas.
Why Recycled Polyester?
By sourcing recycled polyester allows for considerable energy and waste savings in the manufacturing process compared to non-recycled polyester. We use recycled polyester to add stability and strength to our clothing. Our recycled polyester is made from post-consumer PET bottles.
Why Recycled Cotton?
Helps divert textile and excess waste from landfills to make use of existing materials to reducing the need for virgin materials. The recycling process bypasses the initial process of growing, harvesting, and processing new cotton. This results in lower overall energy consumption and reduced carbon footprint. Recycled cotton still retains the softness and comfort characteristics of conventional cotton.
Why Hemp?
Hemp is a strong and durable fibre that crop that does not require synthetic fertilisers to grow, utilises minimal water consumption and promotes soil nutrients during cultivation. This highly efficient crop is strong, durable, and biodegradable. Hemp fabric is also breathable, hypoallergenic and a great protector from UV rays.
Certifications and Fabric Treatment
Certifications help to ensure that textiles are produced in an environmentally and socially responsible manner to verify our practices and products meet certain criteria. Our current supply chain is certified by various independent bodies and standards, demonstrating our commitment to social and environmental practices. They serve as a third-party verification that assess various aspects of operations such as material sourcing, manufacturing processes, and social responsibility efforts. This ensures every part of the supply chain promotes fair labour practices and safe working conditions for garment workers. At Sabi Skateboards, we believe in the ethos to drive positive action for our planet and its people.
The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the leading worldwide standard for organic cotton. Based on ecological and social criteria, it guarantees that cotton is organically grown without using genetically modified seeds or hazardous chemicals.
The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) is the world's leading standard for recycled textiles. The standard applies to the full supply chain and addresses traceability, environmental principles, social requirements, chemical content, and labelling.
FAIR WEAR Fair Wear Foundation (FWF) is an independent organisation that works with the textile industry to improve labour conditions in garment factories. Sabi skateboards partners with clothing manufactures that are authorised members of FF since 2012.
The Organic Content Standard (OCS) is a voluntary international standard that verifies the presence and amount of organic material in a final product. It tracks the flow of the raw material from the source to the final product.
Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX ® is one of the world's best-known standards for the assessment of harmful substances in fabrics. Our certification confirms that our products contain no chemical substances that are harmful to human health and the environment.
Approved', which means that we do not conduct or commission any animal tests on ingredients, formula-tions, or finished products and pledge never to do so.
