DEEP DIVE / SIGNATURE SNAPBACK

ELIMINATE, INNOVATE & CIRCULATE

Our Signature Snapback combines durability with sustainability while featuring a diverse range of colors and graphics. This rugged, moisture-wicking cap will hold up to the wear and tear of exploration or travel and is made from recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) bottles blended with organic cotton.


In this Deep Dive we explore the systematic approach that is essential for minimizing plastic waste and cutting down on the carbon footprint linked to manufacturing new plastics.

PRODUCT SNAPSHOT

FABRIC

65%

Recycled Polyester (rPET)

35%

Organic Cotton

PLASTIC SNAP & BRIM INSERT

100%

Recycled Polypropylene

Water-Resistant / Mid-Profile / Structured

Made in Canada

MATERIALS OVERVIEW

BENEFITS OF BLENDED FABRIC

By utilizing a blended twill fabric our Signature Snapback combines the softness, breathability, and biodegradability of organic cotton with the strength, longevity, and reduced environmental footprint of recycled polyester. The finished fabric is a durable, low-impact and resource-efficient material that contributes to a circular economy.

Recycled Polyester Sustainability vs Virgin Polyester

INTRODUCTION TO THE RESEARCH

Scientific studies have demonstrated that recycled polyester (rPET) offers significant environmental benefits compared to virgin polyester. Find out more below.

01 | Reduced Carbon Emissions

A comprehensive analysis reported by Textile Exchange and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change's Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action found that mechanically recycled polyester can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 70% compared to virgin polyester. This significant reduction is attributed to the recycling process, which bypasses the energy-intensive steps required for virgin polyester production.

02 | Energy Efficiency

The Swiss Federal Office for the Environment reported that recycled polyester production requires 59% less energy compared to virgin polyester.

Another study in ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering showed that recycled PET pathways are less energy-intensive than fossil fuel virgin PET.

03 | Water Conservation

Research published in the Journal of Cleaner Production reveals that recycled polyester fabric production has a significantly lower water scarcity footprint compared to virgin polyester fabric production, with an approximate 68% reduction. This considerable decrease in water consumption enhances the overall sustainability of rPET as a textile option.

04 | Waste Reduction

Multiple studies confirm that recycled polyester diverts plastic waste from landfills and oceans, with one report stating that 1 kg of recycled polyester saves approximately 60 plastic bottles from entering the waste stream.

Benefits of Organic Cotton vs Conventionally Grown Cotton

01 | Reduced Environmental Impact

Organic cotton farming reduces environmental impacts by eliminating synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. A study in Environment, Development and Sustainability found that organic cotton production generates 40% less greenhouse gas emissions, has 70% lower acidification potential, and 26% lower eutrophication potential compared to conventional cotton. While organic cotton generally uses less water, the study doesn't specify a percentage for water savings.

02 | Improved Soil Health

Organic practices enhance soil fertility and structure, promoting long-term agricultural sustainability and resilience against climate change. Research shows that healthy soil acts as a carbon sink, with soils containing more than three times as much carbon as the atmosphere, highlighting the importance of soil conservation in mitigating climate change.

03 | Biodiversity Protection

Organic farming practices, which can be applied to cotton production, support healthier ecosystems and biodiversity by avoiding harmful chemicals that can negatively impact wildlife and beneficial insects. A meta-analysis published in Scientific Reports demonstrated that organic farming generally increases species richness by about 34% compared to conventional farming.

04 | Better Working Conditions

Organic cotton farming is often associated with improved working conditions, as demonstrated by initiatives like the Organic Cotton Accelerator's Decent Work Strategy, which aims to address key challenges such as ensuring living wages, eliminating child and forced labor, improving health and safety on farms, and ending discriminatory practices.

Snap Closure and Brim Reinforcement

WHAT IS RECYCLED POLYPROPYLENE MADE FROM?

The snap closure and brim reinforcement in our Signature Snapback is crafted from recycled polypropylene (rPP), derived from post-consumer and post-industrial waste sources. This sustainable material originates from various everyday items, such as:

– Yogurt containers
– Medicine & lotion bottles
– Ink cartridges
– Food packaging
– Bottle caps and closures
– Automotive parts
– Household items like spatulas