All materials are not created equal. The ingredients and fabrics used in fashion and beauty can be gathered or created in ways that are detrimental to the environment, people or animals. The number of alternatives, from organic to upcycled, plastic free and more, is on the rise, but more innovation and regulation is needed to ensure meaningful adoption.
The challenge
Working with irresponsibly made and produced materials and ingredients is often cheaper and easier than sourcing less damaging alternatives.
Only by developing techniques, fabrics and compounds that are less impactful, and bearing in mind such factors at the design stage, can we make progress.
The goal
We want a more comprehensive approach to labelling materials, with a system that highlights whether the fabrics or ingredients are responsibly made and sourced. We support materials innovations that are oriented towards proactively protecting biodiversity and ecosystems.
Toward’s Approach
Toward does not stock any products that do not comply with our carefully researched list of acceptable materials and processes, and welcomes all materials innovation that drives positive progress.
We will encourage, guide and support our brand partners in:
01
Shaping an approach that reduces the industry’s dependency on virgin resources, respects ecosystems, elevates people and is proactive at protecting the bees, the seas and the trees.
02
Securing all impactful materials from certified, sustainable sources by 2025 and inshifting to regenerative and circular materials by 2030.
Symbols to Search By
Organic Materials
Made from materials raised or grown in compliance with organic agricultural standards – no pesticides, herbicides or other non-naturally occurring chemicals – set by Global Organic Textiles Standard (GOTS) and country-specific certifications.
Recycled Materials
Made from post-consumer waste, designed to be broken down after use, in line with Global Recycle Standards and country-specific certifications.
Responsible Forestry
Committed to the active protection of ancient forest ecosystems.
Environmentally Friendly Dye
All dyes are non-toxic and free from harmful chemicals. The dying process itself is water-efficient and treats waste effluents.
100% Natural Materials
100% of the materials used come from responsibly sourced plant or animal fibers.
Responsible Materials
Made from materials that cause no chemically-induced harm to ecosystems and people along the supply chain, in line with standards set by the Oeko-Tex Association, the bluesign program and ZDHC.
Responsible Animal Products
Upholds standards for basic animal welfare recommended by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA). For more Information please visit the animal welfare section of our responsibility page.
Plastic Free
Contains zero plastic-fibered materials, such as polyester, nylon, acrylic, and elastane. Contains no microbeads or microplastic additives, in line with the Look for the Zero initiative.
Organic Ingredients
Organically farmed ingredients, regulated by the FDA.
Upcycled Ingredients
Uses waste or by-products from the food industry to create new ingredients.
Cruelty Free
Neither the finished product nor its ingredients are tested on animals, and adhere to standards for basic animal welfare set by the World Society for the Protection of Animals (WSPA). All Toward Beauty products are cruelty free.
100% Natural Ingredients
Formula contains 100% natural ingredients, using the definition and classification determined by NATRUE.
Responsible Animal Ingredients
Ingredients harvested from responsibly-managed sources that preserve the integrity of the animals and support local communities.
Vegan
Contains no animal products or byproducts.
Reef Safe
Free from the eight compound chemicals, as well as preservatives and additives, that are harmful to coral reefs.
Responsible Plant Ingredients
Made with responsibly sourced botanical ingredients, naturally occurring elements or compounds.
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