Our Commitment
Being awarded a New Zealand Sustainable Business award in 2007 was a significant endorsement of some philosophies that have been a part of Starfish since our beginnings in 1993. But we realize it is an ongoing commitment and that there is room improvement in every decision we make.
Here are 10 areas that Starfish are currently focusing on:
1. ENDURING DESIGN
Our clothing is designed to be well-loved and well-worn thanks to its style, quality and wearability.
2. NEW ZEALAND MADE, WELL MADE
We have strong relationships with our New Zealand manufacturers and finishes who are skilled craftspeople committed to making quality garments with care and attention to detail.
3. FABRIC CHOICE
Where possible, we choose New Zealand-made fabrics and fabrics with sustainable qualities such as organic denims, cottons and hemp. We are looking to increase our % of these in each new collection.
4. TRIMS AND FINISH CHOICE
Where we can, we use recycled buttons and buckles. We assess our finishing processes to reduce environmental impact, and choose eco-friendly printing processes and denim washes etc…
5. SUSTAINING OURSELVES
We work to achieve a work life balance for our devoted team. This is a vital part of the Starfish way.
6. RESEARCH
We are constantly looking for new opportunities to source sustainable products and services - such as textile treatments, fabrics, printing and consumables.
7. PACKAGING AND PROMOTION
We use paper bags with a vegetable-based dye and chlorine-free tissue, and endeavour to minimise and recycle all incoming and outgoing packaging.
8. TRANSPORT AND ENERGY
We plan our manufacturing and dispatch cycles to keep transportation as efficient as possible. And we work to reduce our carbon emissions by using an energy-efficient power supplier.
9. COLLABORATION
We choose to stock labels and work with businesses that share our philosophies on sustainability.
10. RECYCLING
We recycle all paper, card and plastic products and ask our customers to return clothes hangers and garment bags.