FABRICS : eco-fabrics
Brentano's
eco-fabrics are labeled under the tag
.
At Brentano, we have developed
green criteria for our fabrics that reflect the diverse and interconnected nature of sustainability.
Our
eco-fabrics include our high performance and high quality eco-friendly faux leathers, as well as beautiful upholstery patterns and contract textiles -- overall displaying an uncommon variety of design and versatility available in environmentally-conscious textiles.
The Brentano Green fabric label demonstrates our commitment to pursuing green mindfulness while designing textiles with
beauty + performance in mind.
In order to qualify for the Brentano Green label, our fabrics must comply with green standards in at least two of the following three categories: raw material, process, and facility and social responsibility.
Raw Material
To satisfy the raw material requirement, the textile must either incorporate recycled materials or degradable fibers. If the raw material is a naturally grown fiber, it must be a rapidly renewable resource and grown without or with minimal harmful pesticides, chemicals, and fertilizers.
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The Process
The process takes into account the environmental aspects of manufacturing a textile as well as the entire series of actions required to produce it. No part of the process - from dying and spinning the yarn to weaving and finishing the fabric - can involve harmful chemicals. The manufacturing facility must also comply with environmental protection laws governing energy conservation, water treatment, and chemical regulation.
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Facility and Social Responsibility
Facility and social responsibility consider working conditions, public health, and implementation of green programs. Manufacturers must comply with fundamental human rights laws and initiate programs to promote the green movement. Such initiatives include utilizing energy saving and air quality improvement devices, supporting recycling programs, and encouraging green consciousness among employees.
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Wool is a rapidly renewable resource and is 100% biodegradable. It has a high capacity to absorb VOCs (Volatile Organic Compounds) such as formaldehyde. Additionally, the wool used for Brentano textiles
Eco Flannel,
Eco Satin and
Eco Stripe is ''eco wool'' from New Zealand, meaning there is minimal pesticides compared to traditional wool. Additionally, a biodegradable detergent is used to clean the wool, and in spinning, natural oils are used instead of mineral oils. The Eco Wool is
Environmental Choice New Zealand certified, which evaluates wool processes such as scouring, spinning, dyeing, and finishing, as well as fiber, yarn, pesticide usage, dyes, and water and waste management. The mill that manufactures Eco Flannel, Eco Satin, and Eco Stripe is also ranked
Enviro-Mark Silver and is working to achieving a higher certification.