From our contributor Teri: “When I first discovered that fashion and textiles often have endocrine-disrupting chemicals on them, I was absolutely floored. I’ve personally accumulated several endocrine disorders over my life, including endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Having suffered with these ailments for over a decade now, I always wondered why nobody’s come up with any solid answers as to why these conditions are so prevalent in young women.
But fashion comes with other dangers too, like carcinogens and skin sensitizers. Still, it’s not always easy to find out if your clothes are made with these chemicals. Clothing brands are not required to disclose what goes into even the fancy, branded finishes put on your clothing. So even if your doctor has pinpointed substances commonly found in clothing that you’re allergic to, it’s hard to avoid them.
So we’ve rounded up the cleanest, most trustworthy brands when it comes to chemical safety. Link in profile!
Okay, so polyester and nylon can’t be recycled and its microfibers are especially toxic. What if we could make them biodegradable? Voila: there are at least five different companies who have created a synthetic fiber with an additive that makes it break down in the presence of bacteria.
After an initial flurry of brand announcements and product launches using these “biodegradable” polyester products several years ago, large brands haven’t incorporated these innovations into their general product line.
Something is up.
I dug into the science, interviewed researchers, and had multiple long conversations with these innovators and their scientists to understand what exactly is going on here.
Link in bio: EcoCult.substack.com
Thought about heading to the mountain today to take advantage of the fresh powder, but paying so much for a pass while taking a half day off was stressing me out. Then I remembered there’s an alternative. (I’m also considering trying split boarding in the backcountry next! Anyone have tips?) #winterwonderland
From now on, anytime a person emails me asking for advice on their small fashion brand, I’m going to direct them to this article, featuring life experiences and advice from @niathomas.co@driftlessgoods@nazeerah@therealnesspreserve . Via the EcoCult Substack. Link in profile and stories!
@plumdiamonds is giving EcoCult readers a special discount of 15% on their ethically-sourced, lab-grown diamond jewelry thorough 12/31! 💎Use code CULT15💍 and sparkle on!
New homes, new furniture, scented candles, certain beauty products make you sick? Turns out you’re not crazy. (Even if Aunt Betty rolls her eyes.) Because most homes today have formaldehyde at several times the level that the EPA has determined would impact your health. Today for our Health members, ways you can reduce your exposure. Link in bio!
Most people nowadays can’t cut down a Christmas tree from their own backyard. As such, a debate has erupted about what’s the best choice of a holiday tree for those with chemical sensitivities, asthma, chronic illness, or small kids.
A plastic tree that leaches endocrine disruptors? A real Christmas tree that has been sprayed with pesticides or whose piney scent triggers a reaction? Something else?
Let’s settle this debate once and for all. For our Health members, link in bio!
