When I learned that we are literally inhaling microplastics all around us, I was shook to say the least. And headlines of denim fibers ending up in the arctic glaciers didn’t help the overall feeling of doom I was having. But, to find joy in the beauty of what this world has to offer, while being good stewards of it is the ultimate goal in life. We are all a part of mother nature’s genius cycle and that is what the “INHALE” collection by Simply Suzette and AGI comes to represent.
Being good stewards of Life on Land (SDG15) and Life Below Water (SDG14) is where this project began. Poor land management and farming practices are causing draughts and a decreased food quality, which is why we committed to using organic and recycled cotton, linen, and hemp to reduce our impact during the fibre cultivation stage. By using hemp we are helping support farmers who do grow this crop, as it has the ability to sequester carbon and add nutrients back to our soils. And by blending this with recycled natural fibers, we are reducing our reliance on virgin materials giving our soils a little break while still supporting our surrounding farmers and actively supporting SDG15: Life On Land.
Experiments by Environmental Science & Technology sampled wastewater from domestic washing machines demonstrated that a single garment can produce >1900 fibres per wash. According to the ICUN report, between 15 and 31% of the estimated 9.5 m tonnes of plastic released into the oceans each year could be primary microplastics, almost two-thirds of which come from the washing of synthetic textiles and the abrasion of tires while driving. That’s why we have chosen natural fibres and safe dyes in this collection, ensuring these garments do not need to be washed very often and only aired in between wears. But when microfibres do get released, we know our collection won’t be bringing toxic chemicals to our water sources and marine life actively addressing SDG 14: Life Below Water.
There is no one size fits all approach to creating a ‘sustainable’ jean, however. There are many approaches which is what makes it so exciting. INHALE by Simply Suzette and AGI follow’s nature’s cycle, since mother nature is the genius of geniuses of course, making sure what can’t biodegrade can be removed and recycled (like our twist off and removable buttons).
BUT HERE IS OUR RECIPE TO INHALE:
The concept of 𝚠𝚊𝚋𝚒-𝚜𝚊𝚋𝚒 was a huge source of inspiration for this collection which can be seen in the imperfect slubs within the hemp fabrics or in the hand painted wood buttons, for example. The oversized fits and Japanese ability to throw oversized pieces together so elegantly after seeing this in Japan. I also fell in love with the respect they have for people and nature, which is the true heart of this collection.
INHALE is meant to inspire you to take a second to think critically about what you are putting into this world and exhale slowly knowing you are going to make intentional and long lasting products that will benefit the people and the planet following nature’s cycle. Because mother nature is the genius of all geniuses of course.
Watch the collection story below and don’t hesitate to get in touch with AGI if anything caught your eye ;)
Until next time friends, always be curious and STAY DILIGENT! 🤗