EP5 - Building a Purpose-Driven Clothing Brand with Garth Ellingham

In this episode of Sustainably Ever After, Lilah McDonald interviews Garth Ellingham, Founder of LUCKE, a sustainable apparel company redefining workwear with low-impact materials and thoughtful design. Garth shares his inspiring journey from professional sailing to creating clothing that embodies environmental empathy and innovation. Dive into the challenges, innovations, and impactful practices shaping the sustainable apparel industry.

Garth recounts how his love for the ocean inspired him to address environmental challenges through sustainable clothing. LUCKE focuses on creating durable, low-impact apparel while navigating the complexities of fabric innovation and production. Through partnerships, such as with One Tree Planted, and programmes like clothing take-backs, LUCKE not only produces eco-conscious garments but also fosters a culture of responsibility among clients. Garth's insights underscore the importance of empathy, transparency, and collaboration in driving meaningful environmental change.

Key Takeaways:

• Journey to sustainability: Garth's transition from sailing to sustainable clothing was driven by a desire to create meaningful change, leveraging his background in environmental engineering.
• Innovative materials: LUCKE uses eco-friendly fabrics like organic cotton and recycled polyester, and even blends incorporating used coffee grounds for odor reduction and reduced washing.
• Combating greenwashing: Transparency and education are core to LUCKE's approach, ensuring customers understand the benefits and limitations of sustainable materials.
• Holistic sustainability: From fabric selection to packaging, LUCKE considers every aspect of its operations, striving to minimize environmental impact at all stages.
• Empowering change: Garth emphasises starting small, whether through thoughtful purchasing or waste management, and believes in the ripple effect of collective action.

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A special thanks to sponsors of this podcast, OfficeMax, whose vision it is to empower sustainable and successful workplaces. Learn more about how they can help your business at www.officemax.co.nz

Get in touch:
Website - nzbusiness.co.nz/podcasts
Instagram - @sustainablyeverafterpodcast

Find out more about LUCKE:
Website - www.luckeapparel.com
Facebook - @LUCKEgear
Instagram - @luckeapparel