We, the Healthy Textiles Coalition, are a diverse group of US-based nonprofits, businesses, researchers, industry experts, retired state agency and executive NGO leadership, manufacturers, farms, and ranches committed to the shared goal of developing decentralized natural fiber processing systems. We recognize the urgent conditions brought on by fast fashion including the impacts of microplastics and chemicals from synthetic fibers on our physical bodies, marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and the human and ecological cost of artificially cheap and overproduced clothing and other textiles. Through policy and advocacy efforts, the HTC works to embed the following values into our body of work.
Our Core Values:
1. Regeneration: We champion ecologically-viable production methods by prioritizing the use of renewable, compostable, and non-toxic natural fibers, produced in an amount and at a rate that does not unduly burden the ecological systems which they rely on.
2. Innovation: We encourage the development of cutting-edge technologies and processes to enhance the quality, functionality, and sustainability of natural fiber textiles.
3. Local Economy Support: We are committed to promoting non-toxic and climate beneficial agricultural and textile industries by fostering local production, creating jobs, and supporting sustainable growth.
4. Community Engagement: We work collaboratively with farmers, manufacturers, impacted workers, designers, consumers, environmental and environmental justice organizations to raise awareness about the benefits of natural fibers, and to build durable, equitable, and transparent supply and demand networks.
5. Cultural Heritage: We celebrate our rich agricultural and manufacturing history and its diverse communities by promoting traditional textile practices alongside modern innovations in natural, sustainable fiber production.
6. Waste Reduction and Reuse: We are dedicated to promoting climate-friendly and non-toxic practices in the textile industry, including encouraging extended use, repair, maximum reuse, upcycling, and mechanical recycling of natural fiber materials to reduce waste and extend the lifespan of products, along with promoting design for compostability and healthy, safe end-of-life pathways.
7. Protecting Public Health: We recognize the inherent benefits of natural fibers for human health, creating textiles that are non-toxic and work to increase access to these systems.
8. Transparency: We believe in fostering transparency in the natural fiber supply chain to ensure consumers and businesses are informed about the origin, quality, and climate impact of the products they purchase.
9. Collaboration: We encourage open collaboration between industry stakeholders, governmental organizations, and environmental groups to accelerate the shift toward a bioregional & resilient textile industry.
10. Advocacy: We work to advocate for stronger policies that promote climate beneficial, regionally based natural fiber systems.
Coalition Members:
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