Queensland undergarment brand Nat’v Basics is aiming to have 100% natural fibres across all garments in a bid to solve the end-of-life problem.
Founder Sandy Ronalds said 79% of the brand's range utilises natural fibres.
“We’re working every day to solve the problem of longevity versus biodegradability in our fabric to find that sweet spot balance of a truly sustainable solution,” Ronalds said. “The goal is to have a product that is the most comfortable fabric for undies you can imagine, that has a built-in ‘end of life’ solution.
“It’s a big ask and nobody, including ourselves, has managed to solve it completely yet - but we’re headstrong to get there.”
According to the label, all fabrics used by Nat’v Basics originate from sources such as organic cotton farms (100% certified GOTS), renewably sourced natural fibres (Lenzing Modal Fabric) or recycled plastics.
It is all made from OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100-certified yarns through BSCI-certified facilities.
Ronalds said Nat’v Basics was one of the first brands in Australia to use Lenzing Tencel and Modal fibres.
Nat’v Basics is also working towards achieving B Corp Certification to increase transparency and traceability throughout its supply chain, and continually tracking and auditing its sustainability goals.
“I want to know that I’m doing something to make the world our kids are going to inherit from us be in the best shape it can be,” Ronalds said.
“I need to feel like I’m adding value and giving back in some way, so I guess it makes sense I ended up starting a sustainable business. This is one of our core values, so it’s a goal that will never really be ‘complete’.
“It’s one of the biggest challenges in our industry, so we’re always looking for ways to keep getting better.”
Ronalds said she has seen significant waste generated by businesses over the years, particularly in the everyday products space.
“We all know fashion and apparel are some of the biggest culprits when it comes to unethical and unsustainable practices, so I knew this was a space where I could make a real impact.”
All Nat’v Basics pieces are designed by women and available in sizes S to XXXL.