INTERVIEW #16 SUSTAINASEARCH
“We don’t believe in shaming and blaming, rather we wanted to create something that gave you a warm and good gut feeling. A way of making sustainable choice easier. ”
We had a quick chat with one of the founders of SustainaSearch to ask about why they started the company, her view on sustainable shopping and what they believe needs to change in the fashion industry. SustainaSearch helps costumers to know about the sustainability performance of a product directly on the website where you about to do your purchase. To learn more about their concept and how it works, visit their website!
What is SustainaSearch? Tell us about your company and the concept.
SustainaSearch is a sustaintech start-up with the ambition to help make consumption more sustainable. Starting with the fashion industry and textile products.
How did you come up with the idea?
It was partly out of frustration and part out of a desire to make a difference and create something that will help us all reach the SDG (Sustainable Development Goals). I asked myself why I couldn’t find a site or service that would help me compare products from a sustainability perspective. And since we couldn’t find it, we decided to build it ourselves.
We don’t believe in shaming and blaming, rather we wanted to create something that gave you a warm and good gut feeling. A way of making sustainable choice easier.
What is your relationship with clothes, and how does your shopping pattern look?
Recent years I’ve shifted more and more towards second hand and thrifting. This gives me the chance to try things I might not have if I’d bought it new. When I do buy newly produced items I choose carefully, go for good quality that fits and will last for a long time. I love to power dress and have more jackets and suits in my closet than dresses. I wear my clothes until they fall apart and it’s not uncommon that I find old favorites that I’ve forgotten that I had in the back of the closet. I should sell more of the clothes that I don’t use, but it seems as if I’m only adding new items – though most of them are second hand.
What does SustainaSearch think about the fashion industry in general?
In general, we see that great changes are needed, and they need to be implemented urgently. We do acknowledge the challenges that the industry is facing and in the process many companies will struggle. But at the same time, we are convinced that this transformation into a more sustainable mindset is indisputable and those who can’t manage the change won’t be here tomorrow.
Fast fashion is undergoing a metamorphosis from a valued business model to something else, which doesn’t have to be slow fashion per se but the time perspective has to be different. And the value of clothes might have to be appreciated more.
What do you believe has to change?
Everything. The mindset, the business model, the process and the knowledge of the companies. The consumers also have to change. Primarily their mindset.
What is a sustainable closet according to SustainaSearch?
A closet with fun, smart and usable items. Clothes that can be used for a long time, either by one person or by several sequential persons. But not to forget, clothes that make you feel good, since sustainability includes your own wellbeing as well.
What can one do that seeks to create a more sustainable closet, any tips?
Buy what you need, if you choose newly produced clothes go for quality and longevity, if you’re not hooked on thrifting yet, give it a try and see what fun things you can come across.