PANGAIA sustainability: Exploring the brand's credentials

PANGAIA's popularity has grown exponentially thanks to its fresh approach to apparel in a market dominated by hyperconsumerism and destructive fast-fashion operations.

But how does PANGAIA's sustainability stack up? Is it truly paving the way for a more sustainable future, or is it just another form of greenwashing? We think the former, and here's why.

The background

PANGAIA is one of the most innovative yet simple brands to break into the fashion sphere in recent years. At its centre is its straightforward approach to apparel — think staple products in multiple colours that are designed to last.

The innovation comes from the scientific approach that PANGAIA takes in its production. From bio-based materials to regenerative treatments, the brand constantly develops new approaches to outdated, planet-damaging fashion practices.

"Our vision is to inspire and accelerate an Earth Positive Future. Every product we create is born from science and purpose, each solving an environmental problem in the industry." — PANGAIA

PANGAIA's sustainability is rooted in its 'slow fashion' approach, which prioritises thoughtful, considered purchasing as opposed to the impulse, wasteful buys fuelled by the destructive fast fashion model.

The product

PANGAIA is characterised by its iconic staples, which are available in a wide range of colours and materials. Think athleisure, from hoodies and sweatshirts to shorts and t-shirts. The idea is that the basics help build an interchangeable capsule wardrobe that minimises excessive purchasing.

The products are usually instantly recognisable by their iconic branding, specifically, the chest patch paragraph depicting the garment's composition and the brand's ethical ethos.

In terms of price point, while the products aren't strictly luxury, they're at the upper end of the high-street prices, ranging from £45 for a t-shirt to £140 for a hoodie.

Part of the PANGAIA sustainability ethos is offering a ReWear programme to encourage circularity. Customers can buy and sell pre-loved PANGAIA garments to extend their lifespan and limit the amount of textile waste heading to landfills.

The materials

When considering whether PANGAIA is a sustainable brand, its eco-friendly materials are usually the star of the show. PANGAIA has invested heavily in developing ethically sourced materials from plant-based, waste and surplus origins.

It's also developed innovative treatments to reduce water, waste and chemicals. But the brand also goes beyond the norm, investing in lab-grown and carbon-capture products while still ticking off the basics such as recycled and regenerative materials.

Material spotlights:

PANHEMP™

A plant-based denim fabric made from rain-fed hemp, reducing water waste.

AIR INK®

A technology that turns air pollution into water-based ink.

TWELVE C02-MADE MATERIAL

Carbon-capturing CO2Made® polycarbonate lenses created from CO².

PPRMINT™

A peppermint oil treatment that neutralises odours and prevents bacteria.

The science

Science is at the heart of PANGAIA's commitment to sustainability, which is why it forms such a big part of its business model. So big in fact, that they have their own PANGAIA lab, which is a place for innovators to put their minds together and devise the future of fashion through innovative materials and new scientific approaches.

The PANGAIA lab has been the brains behind creating the very first biofabricated hoodie, The Infinite Tee made from regenerative fibres and a collaboration with Colorfix to create dyes made from bacteria.

Giving back

Sustainability isn't just about the clothes a brand produces or its manufacturing methods — it involves investing in the planet's future outside its immediate supply chain.

PANGAIA is dedicated to giving back to the planet through several philanthropic initiatives:

• Coral Gardeners: PANGAIA has partnered with Coral Gardeners, a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to protecting the world's coral reefs, which are rapidly dwindling. How? Through financial donations and profits raised from the garment collaboration collection.
• Choose Love: Another partnership that PANGAIA has invested in is the Choose Love organisation, which helps to support refugees and displaced citizens around the world. Again, the brand gives financial donations and branded collaborations.
• BeeTheChange: In 2020, PANGAIA celebrated World Bee Day by starting the BeeTheChange movement. The initiative supports four grassroots organisations that protect and promote the importance of bees.
• Tomorrow Tree Fund: Another initiative set up by the brand in 2020, the Tomorrow Tree Fund supports the protection and restoration of forests by planting trees and supporting local communities.

PANGAIA sustainability: How does it stack up?

Overall, PANGAIA's sustainability credentials are impressive compared to many of its fast fashion counterparts.

Rooted in the slow fashion movement and dedicated to protecting the planet through science, the brand is developing a legacy that many brands could and should take inspiration from.

So, how can fashion become more sustainable?

Our guide tells all. Download now to find out our take on how the fashion industry can become more sustainable and the steps brands can take to get there.