Recently, the topic of responsible consumption has been a frequent topic on our blog – we talk about how to incorporate small environmental changes into our daily lives, but we also strive to demonstrate that even the smallest steps in this regard make a difference. Today, we'll touch on zero waste – explaining what it is, its key differences from the less waste concept, and answering the question of whether zero waste is possible in fashion . We'll also show you what we're doing at ANSIN to be a more environmentally friendly brand!
Zero waste – what does it actually mean?
Zero waste (also called no waste) literally translates from English to " without garbage " or " zero waste ." In practice, zero waste living is linked to the 5R principles through responsible consumption or, for example, reusing as many products as possible. Interestingly, this isn't a new concept! The term zero waste was first used by an American chemist in the 1970s in the context of the production system. Today, we also use zero waste in the context of changes in society, meaning each of us. Many of these changes can be implemented in our lives in very simple ways, and such changes have a powerful global impact. Regarding the difference between less waste and zero waste , less waste is a less restrictive philosophy. It allows for mistakes and small deviations, and allows time to implement changes in small steps. The latter philosophy has long been close to us at ANSIN!
How do we implement less waste at ANSIN?
Since the inception of our brand, we have strived to ensure that ANSIN's production and sales system promote and support an environmentally friendly approach. Our daily shipments are made using cardboard packages with biodegradable filling inside – the so-called "rough" filling. This unique material dissolves completely when exposed to water. This helps us reduce the amount of waste associated with our operations.
Another example of responsible action at ANSIN is that earlier this month, we organized a very spontaneous event for our customers, which we also happily mention in connection with the topic of zero waste and less waste. When we received a batch of stylish planners with minor flaws (a fold in the page, air bubbles under the cover, etc.), we knew we couldn't offer them for sale... but instead, we decided to give them away as a bonus with our customers' purchases, as a pleasant surprise and also as a no-waste gesture. This way, nothing was wasted – on the contrary, we brought joy to others .
Additionally, recently, to continue and develop these business initiatives, we've also partnered with FabLab Małopolska . It's a creative space where you can test any idea in practice. You can also conduct your research here or test new solutions. We're thrilled that our production scraps ended up there! How were they used? Some time ago, during a special event, the family EKOsobota , children and their parents, after a short training session on how to use sewing machines and irons, created beeswax wraps and curtain bags for fruit and vegetables. Our scraps were perfect for this project, and they also decorated the curtain bags . See the final result in the photos below – we're incredibly impressed. Isn't this the perfect zero-waste gift idea? We hope this isn't the last collaboration of this kind.
Zero waste in fashion – is it possible?
Implementing the idea of 100% zero waste in fashion is very difficult, even impossible, to achieve, but... it's small steps like reusing production waste that allow us to generate a positive environmental impact! Furthermore, let's not forget that responsible consumerism in practice also means maximizing the use of products. Therefore, if you buy good quality clothing for yourself and wear it with a smile for a long time, you are also choosing to be a conscious consumer. This approach isn't about drastically reducing your purchases, but rather buying what you can use to the maximum. That's why at ANSIN, we strive to create a place where you can find high-quality items that also promote environmentally friendly ideas . We are close to the less waste philosophy and are happy to promote it frequently.
Finally, we'd also like to encourage other brands, companies, and social initiatives to contact us and collaborate – we'd definitely like to repeat such zero-waste scrap collection initiatives in the future. If you need any scraps, just contact us at sklep@ansin.pl . We'll do our best to help!
Patricia from ANSIN
