Sustainable Materials

All Natural - Down to the Thread

We knew from the start, we had to do things right. We needed to choose the materials that truly aligned with our vision to save endangered wildlife from extinction. Which also means, protecting their natural habitat from pollution and climate change.

The fashion industry is currently one of the largest polluters. The principal contribution to this pollution, is the use of polyester and other synthetic fibers in textile manufacturing. Polyester is one of the most popular fibers used today. It can be found in over 60% of garments. When polyester clothing is washed, micro plastics are shed and they enter the water system. These microplastics have been shown to cause severely detrimental effects to aquatic life, such as turtles and fish species. If plastic use continues, some of these amazing animals could be lost forever.

We want to be a part of the solution, not the problem. So, our designer and manufacturer collaborated to ensure we took every step possible to create high-quality, long lasting clothing, which is made of 100% natural fibers and uses water based dyes. With us, the environment always comes first.

What is Pima Cotton?

When it comes to cotton, most people think of short staple cotton, also known as Upland cotton. This type of cotton makes up about 90% of global cotton production and is known for its shorter fiber length.

However, there are other types of cotton that offer an even softer, smoother, and more luxurious feel - extra-long staple cottons like Pima cotton and Egyptian cotton. These types of cotton make up just 8% of global production but are known for their exceptional quality.

Pima cotton in particular is highly prized for its softness and durability. So if you're looking for the ultimate in comfort and luxury, be sure to choose products made with extra-long staple cotton like Pima. You won't be disappointed!

What Makes it Special

Extra-long staple fibres allow fabrics to have a smoother surface, making them softer than regular cotton and more resistant to pilling, tearing, and fraying. Pima cotton is known to be about 50% more durable than regular cotton, which means that our products will last longer. The more durable, the more sustainable, the more environmentally friendly. 

Furthermore, Pima cotton is hypoallergenic and is also more absorbable than regular cotton due to it’s long fibres. More absorbable means that our products will help you regulate your temperature, so don’t be afraid to wear your Project Life clothing on your next volunteer mission!

Why Peru?

Now, more than ever, we need to push for sustainable fashion. We're all tired of those cheaply made shirts that only look good for the first few washes. We want products that last; from companies that care for the environment and for the people who work with them. That's why we chose Peru as our home base for our clothing production. Peru is at the forefront of sustainable fashion, implementing many programs and certifications to ensure its fashion is sustainably produced. The Association of Sustainable Fashion of Peru, which was founded in 2015, aims to promote the use of natural fibers and ethical business practices.

Pima cotton also originated in Peru, where the unique climate, moisture and soil make it one of the only locations on Earth where it can grow. Peruvian Pima cotton producers also allow different, natural colours to grow, which allows for increasingly natural and organic products.

Most importantly, Peru has Alpacas, and Alpacas are really frickin' cute!