The purchase of synthetic and commercially manufactured fibers poses a great environmental threat to our planet. At the societal level, we bear witness to the effects of global warming, serving to warn us as to the implications of ignoring such hazards associated with the production of such materials. The impact of shopping for such goods, increases the need to employ more mill and factory garment workers, directly exposing them to toxic fumes, in turn putting them at great risk of unspeakable long-term health issues (in which they most likely don’t receive healthcare). Additional implications include exposing surrounding communities to toxins in their waterways and air, the destruction of ancient forests and displacing thousands of species of plant life and animals, accumulation of microplastic in the human body, and a vast increase of greenhouse gases translating into an accelerated pace of global warming. 

Shopping for clothing is a great joy. If we as consumers ignore what these companies are thinking regarding the environment, how do we expect them to productively evolve on their end?  We as consumers must craft a strong message regarding what we want to purchase, keeping sustainability front and center. It is time to demand environmentally sensitive options at our favorite clothing brands, providing us the luxury to continue to be fashionable and at the same time protect skilled laborers and the environment. 

I present MODE SUSTAIN to help bridge the gap between the issues that the textile industry has led on, with environmental science and the environmental justice that comes with creating the clothing in your closet. This website is a resource to not only provide timely information but is also a forum for all to express concerns and provide suggestions on how to assist the progression of this most exciting vision. A suggested way to take on this website: First, start off by reading about the fibers. This is the material used to create a garment. Understanding a fibers environmental implications will help frame issues within the textile industry in a different manner. From there, look at the various blog posts which speak upon a variety of topics, from protests to what the industry is currently doing within the sustainability realm. There is also a section in which you will learn about the environmental certifications posed on fibers, as well as chemicals. I hope I can provide you with education as well as sympathy for the place in which you live, planet Earth.

ABout mode sustain

EDUCATING FOR THE PURPOSE OF UNDERSTANDING THE REPERCUSSIONS OF THE ACTION, CONSUMERISM.

About me

Hello! My name is Lauren Rose. I just graduated with a bachelor’s degree from Drexel University, in which I majored in Environmental Studies & Sustainability and a minor in Law. I have decided on taking my studies to focus on the textile industry, of which is in major need of a shift in direction. I have practical experience working for a few textile labels, most recently and notably,  Proenza Schouler, where my focus was on sustainability research. It was a phenomenal experience, as I got a full taste of how vast the business of textiles was, well beyond what I had previously visioned. Despite how broad the industry is however, I quickly discovered that the word “sustainability” has ironically been used in a way that saves a brands reputation more than the earth. I realized that this large global movement was to some extent entirely absent here.

It is my hope to be a facilitator of environmental science competency within the textile industry, and meaningfully encourage change. I am so grateful for my experiences, and look very much forward to making an impact.