Walking the Talk: How equalshumans Achieve Zero Waste in Fashion
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword at equalshumans—it’s woven into every fabric, every stitch, and every decision we make. Achieving zero waste isn’t just about reducing wasteful production; it’s about rethinking how fashion can function within a truly circular system—one that values creativity, responsibility, and community over convenience and excess.
From how we design and produce our clothing to how we package, ship, and even live outside of work, every choice is made with intention. Our commitment to zero waste extends beyond the garments we create—it is a lifestyle we embrace in every aspect of our business and personal lives.
The Journey to Zero Waste
The fashion industry is one of the most wasteful in the world, but at equalshumans, we knew from day one that we had to do things differently. Instead of chasing fast fashion trends, we built our brand on timeless, high-quality pieces made to last, reducing overproduction, and sourcing fabrics that minimize environmental impact. But we didn’t stop there.
We took a deep dive into every aspect of our operations—from materials and manufacturing to shipping and packaging—to ensure that we operate with as little waste as possible. Our commitment to zero waste means making intentional choices every step of the way:
Conscious Materials: We source organic, recycled, and biodegradable fabrics that don’t contribute to pollution or exploitative labor practices.
Sustainable Manufacturing: We work with ethical, eco-conscious production houses that minimize waste, use renewable energy, and operate responsibly.
Reclaimed & Repurposed Textiles: We maximize the use of every thread, scrap, and material, repurposing them into linings, piping, handles, and accessories.
Eco-Friendly Packaging: Our packaging is 100% recyclable, compostable, or biodegradable—because sustainability should never be wrapped in plastic.
Limited Bulk Ordering: We order fabrics in bulk only a few times a year, ensuring we use what we purchase and reducing excess inventory.
Upcycling & Resale: Old merchandise isn’t discarded—it’s upcycled, redyed, and given new life, sometimes in collaboration with other artists and designers.
Achieving zero waste in fashion is a process that requires constant reevaluation, innovation, and commitment. While many believe it to be impossible, we prove that with the right materials, responsible sourcing, and creative reuse, it can be done.
Beyond Fashion: A Zero-Waste Lifestyle
At equalshumans, we don’t just practice sustainability in our business—we embody it in our personal lives. Every team member integrates waste reduction into their everyday actions.
Jess and Alison meticulously source fabrics that align with our zero-waste vision, ensuring that every material choice reflects our values.
Rosario manages digital marketing in a way that minimizes unnecessary digital waste, prioritizing thoughtful and impactful content over mass production.
Abdullah and Jasmin curate content and media that educate and inspire, amplifying conversations about sustainability in a way that reaches and empowers more people.
When we travel, we do so consciously, walking whenever possible, carpooling, and supporting businesses that share our commitment to the planet. Whether in our homes or our workspaces, we prioritize reducing waste, recycling properly, and making mindful choices about what we consume.
Sustainability isn’t just a corporate initiative—it’s a way of life.
Circular Economy: Making Every Resource Count
The future of sustainability in fashion isn’t just about using eco-friendly materials—it’s about embracing a truly circular economy where waste doesn’t exist because everything has value.
At equalshumans, we live this philosophy every day:
Repurposing & Community Impact: Scraps don’t go to waste—they become something new. Whether for an art project, a workshop, or social impact initiatives, we engage our community in finding innovative ways to give old materials new life.
Collaboration Over Consumption: We partner with creatives, artists, and designers in ways that extend beyond monetary exchange. A website designer might not just build a site for money but in return for a deeper role in the equalshumans community. Similarly, a garment might be exchanged not just as a sale but as part of a larger creative collaboration.
Events & Everyday Sustainability: We’ve eliminated disposable plastics at our events, create our own reusable tablecloths and backdrops, and even design our own garment bags using muslin and fabric scraps.
Recycling & Resale: Our resale and repair programs ensure that clothing lives multiple lives instead of ending up in landfills. Customers are encouraged to bring back worn-out pieces for repair, resale, or repurposing.
For us, zero waste isn’t just about cutting down on trash—it’s about completely rethinking the way we create, consume, and exchange value.
The Challenges & The Future
Going zero waste hasn’t been without its challenges. From sourcing the right materials to convincing manufacturers to eliminate plastic in shipping, the road has required persistence, research, and a willingness to innovate.
But we believe the effort is worth it. Our goal moving forward is to collaborate with more fabric houses to rescue deadstock materials before they reach landfills, expand our upcycling programs, and continue advocating for industry-wide change.
For those wondering if achieving zero waste is possible, we have one piece of advice: DO IT. The resources, materials, and innovations exist—but you have to be intentional. Research, experiment, and prioritize quality over quantity. The earth deserves it. We deserve it.
Join the Movement
At equalshumans, we believe fashion should serve the people who wear it and the planet that makes it possible. Choosing equalshumans means choosing fashion that respects the earth and values every step of the process—from design to disposal.
This is what walking the talk looks like. This is what the future of fashion should be. And together, we’re proving that it’s possible.
