Sustainability at Joel and Son Fabrics
At Joel and Son Fabrics, we are dedicated to conducting our business with a deep commitment to both environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Recognising the profound impact our operations have on the planet and society, we are steadfast in our mission to minimise our ecological footprint while simultaneously fostering a workplace culture that prioritises fairness, diversity, inclusion, and community engagement. We firmly believe that by embracing sustainable practices and actively contributing to the welfare of our employees, customers, and communities, we can create a brighter, more sustainable future for generations to come.
From the fabrics we source to the way we operate our business, sustainability is woven into the fabric of our company culture. We are dedicated to minimising our environmental footprint and maximising our positive impact on the communities and ecosystems we touch.
Our commitment to sustainability extends to the suppliers we choose to partner with. We carefully select suppliers who share our values and uphold the highest standards of ethical and environmental responsibility. By working with like-minded suppliers, we ensure that our products are not only beautiful and high-quality but also produced in a socially and environmentally conscious manner.
At Joel and Son Fabrics, we are constantly exploring new ways to innovate and improve our sustainability practices. Whether it's reducing waste, conserving resources, or promoting fair labor practices, we are always seeking opportunities to do better and be better.
We are working closely to adapt age-old processes in the textile industry, and our goal is to only buy from factories and mills who are making a conscious effort to improve and maintain our increasingly fragile environment.
It is understood that with fast, throwaway fashion, we are slowly, but definitely, destroying our planet. Everyone needs to step back and re-evaluate what matters most! The buyers at Joel & Son Fabrics recognise the need to support factories that have environmentally friendly practices in place, and we pride ourselves on only working with established factories in Europe.
We believe our suppliers are pivotal in championing ethical and environmentally responsible practices in the textile industry. We exclusively collaborate with suppliers who hold certifications such as:
Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS): GOTS certification ensures that textiles are produced using organic fibers, processed without harmful chemicals, and manufactured in compliance with strict environmental and social criteria.
OEKO-TEX Standard 100: OEKO-TEX certification guarantees that textiles are free from harmful substances and chemicals, ensuring the safety and well-being of consumers and workers throughout the supply chain.
Responsible Wool Standard (RWS): RWS certification verifies that wool comes from farms that prioritise the welfare of sheep, promote sustainable land management practices, and adhere to strict animal welfare standards.
Global Recycled Standard (GRS): GRS certification ensures that textiles are made from recycled materials, promoting resource conservation, waste reduction, and circular economy principles.
Better Cotton Initiative (BCI): BCI certification promotes sustainable cotton production by emphasising water conservation, reduced pesticide use, and improved labour practices among cotton farmers.
Joel & Son Fabrics is always working diligently to improve ourselves and minimise the devastating effect that the fabric and textile industry has on our fragile planet.
Here are a few factoids you may be interested in about Italian fabric mills:
> Italy has established innovative wastewater treatment plants that ensure the removal of nitrogen from dyes, washing and finishing.
> Dyes used in printing mills have rigorously controlled disposal practices.
> The implementation of alternative energy sources, with the use of solar and wind turbines, are encouraged with grants from the Italian government.
Our Environmental and Social Policy
