Responsible fashion is a rapidly growing trend that is inspiring more and more consumers to make mindful choices and support brands that prioritise ethics and the environment. You may have recently heard the words ‘regenerative farming’ being bandied around. So, what does it mean, and how does it relate to sustainable fashion and consumerism?
What is regenerative farming?
Regenerative farming, also known as regenerative agriculture, is an innovative approach to agriculture that aims to restore and enhance the health of the soil and the surrounding environment. This holistic approach to farming prioritises soil health, biodiversity, and animal welfare to create a healthier ecosystem. With practices such as crop rotation, reduced soil disturbance, and harmonious animal and plant integration, regenerative agriculture in essence naturally puts back more than what is taken.
What does regenerative farming mean for you?
Considering whether your garment is the result of regenerative farming practices is probably not top of your mind when you’re in a store or shopping online. However, the importance of regenerative farming shouldn't be underestimated. By nurturing the soil, not only does soil health improve, but less nasties like pesticides need to be used, as fewer pests and pathogens are harbored in the healthier soil. Crop yields increase, and water usage decreases as the soil retains a lot more moisture. There is also minimal soil run-off into our waterways and streams, which helps agricultural communities become more resilient to climate change.
Regenerative farming plays a crucial role in addressing biodiversity loss and the degradation of fertile soil. If we continue on as we are currently, we face significant challenges in the next 50 years, including risks to public health and food shortages. The truth is, without regenerative agriculture, the future will be bleak. Global warming will worsen and biodiversity loss will escalate.
How does Untouched World commit to the movement?
At Untouched World, we are proud to commit to the regenerative farming movement. We are careful to select partners who share in our values and prioritise sustainable practices. Over 90% of our merino wool comes from Glenthorne Station, where healthy, happy sheep roam freely over 62,000 acres of beautiful land, all managed according to regenerative farming principles and certified by New Zealand Merino’s ZQRX standard.
As advocates for positive change in the fashion industry, we’re excited to be able to help you curate a responsibly made wardrobe, without any compromise on quality or style. We believe regenerative farming is the future of agriculture, and by choosing Untouched World products, you're joining us in building a healthier planet.
Our Glenthorne Merino collection offers a wide range of options for men and women who want a versatile and timeless wardrobe. Our commitment to sustainability is unwavering, so you can invest in our garments with a clear conscious, knowing they have been responsibly made.
Sustainable fashion isn't just a passing fad; it's a movement that's reshaping the world. We encourage you to look into what your clothes are made from and who made them. By carefully selecting the pieces in your wardrobe and supporting purpose-driven brands, you are voting with your dollars for a fairer, cleaner fashion industry. The reality behind cheap price tags is that if you’re not paying, then someone else is.
By investing in less items overall, but choosing pieces with enduring quality and design that have been thoughtfully crafted, both you and the planet benefit. While it might be an investment initially, in the long term you’ll save both time and money. There’ll be less time wading through your wardrobe wondering what to wear, and you’ll enjoy quality pieces for years to come.
