Written by Sandie Zhang, May 14th, 2024

Hi all! It’s Sandie here.

As a founder, I find it hard to take time and reflect on the past because we often focus on the present and plan for the future. However, today I want to reflect on Earth Month and share with you some of my favorite moments in April.

🌱The highlight of the month was my conversation with Rachel Molina and Silvia Bellezza in our recent webinar. We discussed the need for clear communication about sustainability efforts as well as educating consumers on the true cost of fashion, such as displaying carbon emissions on products. Additionally, economic stability and environmental concerns must be balanced by making sustainability the default standard, reducing the burden on consumers. Closing the education gap is essential, empowering consumers to support brands that champion sustainability.

🌱This year, the Earth Day theme is Planet vs. Plastics, highlighting the necessity of reducing plastics for the sake of human and planetary health. Fashion is considered one of the most polluting industries, accounted for 35% of the ocean’s microplastics. A petition that calls for accountability, taxation and further regulations on transparency and traceability was signed by over 10,000 people.

🌱Legislation wins: 1) EU passes Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Law that establishes structured legal liability regarding environmental and human righs violations in their supply chains; 2) France MPs approved a ban on PEAS (per- and polyfluoroalkylated) which is often used in cosmetic products and clothes; and 3) France’s lower house of parliament approved to panelize ultra-fast fashion companies like Shein up to 10 euros per clothes.

“Sustainability is not an end goal, it’s a journey.” Earth Month has reinforced my passion for sustainable fashion and also my belief what we are building at Changing Hands plays a role in supporting this cause. Together, let our small actions today lead to significant impacts tomorrow.

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Yours,
Sandie