Q3 2021 – 2022 Sustainability Report
This quarter we reflect on the floods that have devastated our community and the timely release of the International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) 6th Assessment Report
International Panel on Climate Change
The International Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) is a global organisation of scientists responsible for monitoring and assessing climate change. Established in 1988 they publish assessment reports every 5 years and have recently released the 2nd part of the 6th report that focuses on climate impacts, vulnerability and adaptation.
The recent assessment report is the most comprehensive to date with over 7 years of peer reviewed science.
The first part of the report published in 2021 focused on projections for future warming and impact on climate systems. The second part specifically assesses the impact of climate change on human communities, ecosystems and biodiversity and what adaptations are necessary through examining the source of emissions from all aspects of society.
The key finding is that Greenhouse gas emissions need to be reduced by 45% by 2030 and net zero by 2050 to ensure temperatures don’t raise above 1.5 degrees Celsius in line with the Paris Agreement.
However, we are on a trajectory for a catastrophic temperature raise of above 2 degrees Celsius due to inadequate action being taken on a global scale.
We are already witnessing the destructive impacts of 1.2 degrees warming pre-industrial levels from the wild fires of 2019-20 to the still very raw recent flooding that devastated our community. These humanitarian disasters are unprecedented and the incompetence of the government to provide support to those impacted has clearly demonstrated inadequacies. It was the communities on the ground running rescue operations and providing support to victims of the floods.
There needs to be acknowledgement and accountability. Investment and support to rebuild with resilience.
Ending coal is said to be the single most important step to end our global addiction to fossil fuels. Our economic model must change and there is opportunity with an abundance of natural resources. We have the solutions, it is within our capacity to solve this crisis.
If action isn’t taken our economic, national, food and water security are threatened. Our physical safety and mental and emotional health, we are facing an epidemic of eco-anxiety particularly in our youth.
Sea level raises pose a very real existential challenge to Torres Straight and other low lying coastal communities.
It is the most vulnerable that are at risk both within our communities and the Global South. The Global North is responsible for 79% of global emissions and yet it is the Global South that are already suffering the impacts of climate change.
It is the youth driving grass roots direct action challenging the misinformation, greenwashing and propaganda we face.
Every action has a reaction
There is a sense of urgency, this is the decade of action and mitigation. Our decisions will forge pathways that will define the future of our planet. Collectively we need to change our narrative and culture.
Every action we take and decision we make as individuals can inform change. Let’s stand in solidarity and take collective action.
So, how can we act as individuals? This quarter we collaborated with Carbon Positive who have developed a carbon calculator. To kick off the year we launched a Carbon Challenge with some amazing tips on how to reduce your impact. Read these blogs for practical tips and tricks to reduce your personal carbon emissions:
- Power, Banks & Super – Why divesting is one of the most important changes you can make - Read here
- Food & Waste, Carbon & Consumption - Read here
- Travel & Transport - Read here
- Water - Read here
Other actions you can take:
- Become part of a climate activist group
- Lobby the government
- UN act now campaign, click here for more info
Community Spirit tee
In response to the devastation of the recent floods we offered our community the opportunity to design an artwork for a charity tee to raise money to support those affected.
100% of the profits made from the sale of our Community Spirit Tee will go towards supporting our flood affected community. You can purchase yours here
Made in Australia
This quarter 19% of our garments were manufactured here in Australia. We believe in the importance of localisation. By manufacturing in Australia not only are we reducing carbon emissions from transportation but supporting our community, industry and economy. Haven was made by an Ethical Clothing Australia (ECA) certified Melbourne based factory.
There are of course challenges to manufacturing in Australia in terms of limited supply chains and higher price point. The cost of manufacturing is higher relative to our economy and wages. By paying more for beautifully crafted quality garments we can foster a deeper appreciation and value, and consume less.
Natural dyes
This quarter we launched our first naturally dyed collection. Sugar was dyed using natural dyes derived from by-products.
The pigment used to dye the Canyon Sugar is made from 90% bitter orange and grapefruit extract residues. These extracts are flavonoids used as antioxidants in the pharmaceutical industry.
Closing the loop, reducing waste, resource depletion, water and chemical pollutants.
Reference: Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Higg Material Sustainability Index (Raw Materials).
We are unable to report on BCI cotton as there is currently no data available in the Higg MSI.
Freight
Due to unforeseen delays and the impact of further lockdowns in our supply chains we had to resort to air freighting. We are dedicated to moving to a sea freight model through careful planning going forward.
Circularity
By utilising deadstock for our collaboration with Mother the Mountain we saved 430m from landfill.
