Here are a few results from your search....

Thrifting is the new ‘buzzword’ around B-town! With so many social media-based thrift stores to choose from, how do you thrift reliably in India? Thrifting is a fairly new concept in India, and as a recent convertee myself, I understand your apprehension. If you’re looking to start your thrift journey, let me introduce you to EcoDhaga, your one-stop solution for all sustainable fashion needs. It is India’s first ethical thrift store, and psst… they are so much more. Here are the top reasons why you should start thrifting with EcoDhaga today. It’s India’s First Ethical Thrift Shop: Yes, you heard it right! EcoDhaga is India's first closed-loop fashion brand that focuses on giving a new life to fashion waste created by consumers. EcoDhaga’s online thrift store sources donations from individuals around Bangalore. Rigorous quality checks and processes are in place to ensure that only the best clothes are listed online. That’s not it, their clothes are pocket-friendly and they consist of a wide range of collections to choose from. EcoDhaga’s goal is to help clothes reach their full potential through thrifting, upcycling, and recycling clothes, and help keep them out of landfills. Their vision is to help India embrace slow fashion. You’re Supporting a Women-led Business: Friends turned business partners, EcoDhaga was co-founded by Ashni Tripathi & Sanjana Swaroop who work with a diverse team of Women. So thrifting with them means you’re investing in gender parity, innovation, overall economic growth, and female economic empowerment. This is not only an economically sound choice but also a socially responsible one. You Build a Quality Wardrobe on a Budget: Whether you want to stay on top of the latest trends or express your individuality with unique and vintage clothing, thrifting with EcoDhaga allows you to create a wardrobe that’s completely one-of-a-kind. Their thrift store carries a range of pre-owned and pre-loved fashion wear from over 300 local & global brands, some are now considered vintage. With their new inventory going live every week, hunt for vintage and custom-tailored pieces to add a dash of personality to your wardrobe! Convenient Thrifting: Yes, convenient thrifting exists! EcoDhaga has a digital thrift store as well as an exclusive offline experience in Bangalore curated specially for you! The initiative by the brand called “ThriftEx” lets you experience a very unique & customized shopping experience. Check out Ex-loved clothes in an Exclusive curated Experience with ThriftEx! Not only do you get to shop for cute, preloved clothes at up to 70% off their estimated original price, but you also get to interact with the team and co-founders, who help you pick the best outfits for yourself and styles that best showcase you! They Make Thrift Available to All: For many plus-sized people, the opportunities to engage with sustainable fashion are limited. EcoDhaga's size chart, however, is custom curated for the Indian body and is very inclusive! They have translated global sizes to our Indian fits. Not only that, when listing, they use this unified size chart, measuring each garment individually, so you get the accurate fit and description. You can comfortably shop for any size without judgment and embrace your beautiful curves in their collections on offer! Providing you with an all-around impressive selection and options to choose from, the only downside would be that they sell out oh-so-quickly! If these reasons were not enough, let us remind you that with every purchase, you’re closing the loop and saving on your pocket with EcoDhaga. Choose India's first closed-loop fashion brand that focuses on giving a new life to fashion waste created by consumers. Well, what are we waiting for? Let’s Get Thrifty Y’all.

Women entrepreneurs from Africa are helping increase access to energy in sub-Saharan Africa through an innovative off-grid renewable energy model. They are literally helping brighten the world and lighting the path for more women in the renewable energy sector. Energy, Development, and Sustainability Access to energy is one of the key indicators of national prosperity, development, security, and well-being. However, around one billion people in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia don’t have proper access to electricity. This represents a significant barrier to progress and the overall well-being of over 14% of the world’s population. It affects all development aspects including education, health, livelihoods, poverty eradication, and gender equality. Last-mile energy access is still a problem in the 21st century and it’s not limited to just rural areas. Those without electricity are either remotely located, poor, or both. Informal urban settlements usually lack the required transmission and distribution infrastructure. Deciding on energy distribution on a local scale requires considering various factors. For remote households, extending the central grid can be prohibitively expensive. Additionally, installing reliable off-grid systems can be financially challenging, as they require high initial investments. Access to energy has been deemed a basic requirement for sustainable development by the UN. Sustainable Development Goal 7 (SDG)­ is to ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable, and modern energy for all by 2030. Taking all of this into consideration plus the clean energy debate, it becomes apparent that centralized fossil-fuel-based energy systems are not feasible for meeting the last mile connectivity challenge sustainably. This opens up the space for innovative renewable and clean energy solutions to bridge the energy access gap. Improving Access to Energy and Gender Inequality In sub-Saharan Africa, more than 600 million people lack access to electricity and over 700 million have to rely on harmful fossil fuels. A social enterprise named Solar Sister is trying to solve this problem of energy poverty. It is shouldering the responsibility to deliver sustainable and clean energy in rural and impoverished regions of Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Kenya, Nigeria, and South Sudan. It combines off-grid portable solar technology with a women-driven direct sales network to provide clean and reliable electricity to last-mile communities. Women Empowerment Solar Sister works through a nexus of local women who receive training for business, technology, and leadership skills to set up sustainable clean energy businesses in their communities. Solar Sister started in 2009 by training ten women entrepreneurs in Uganda. Ten years later, they have created a network of over 4000 women entrepreneurs bringing solar power to more than 1.6 million Africans. The enterprise’s motto “Light, Hope, Opportunity” is clearly reflected in the work and the increasing number of these women. In addition to contributing to the renewable energy movement and helping increase electricity access in developing communities, this women-centric model is doing wonders for women, most of whom are from underprivileged households. Women who were not given a say in household decisions earlier are now contributing to the household income. They are garnering respect from family and community members alike and becoming confident community leaders and role models. Women who might not have had the opportunity to get a formal education, now learn skills in marketing, financial management, communication, and technical understanding of these energy products. Grassroot Development and Community Building The initiative has also benefited education in rural communities. Over 90% of parents report an improvement in their children’s academic performance thanks to solar light. Moreover, families who switched to clean, smoke-free cookstoves reported significant improvement in the health of women and children. Every dollar invested in a Solar Sister entrepreneur generates over USD 48 in economic benefits in the first year of participation. In calculating the benefit, we include the earned income for the woman entrepreneur and the cash savings generated for her customers. In other words, at one-tenth the cost of traditional solar home systems, customers are benefiting from increased savings, extended working hours, better indoor air quality, and extended study time for children. Women in the Energy Sector A report released earlier this year by the International Renewable Energy Association (IRENA) shows that women occupy 32% of the workforce in the renewable energy sector. There are several barriers that either prevent the entry of women into this workforce or make it less appealing for them. These include preconceived perceptions of gender roles, social norms, prevailing hiring practices, lack of gender targets, limited opportunities for training and skill development, and discouraging workplace policies. The report also goes on to discuss how strengthening the role of women in renewable energy through better education and opportunities would boost progress toward SDGs on energy, gender equality, health, and education, among others. Something that de-centralized models like that of Solar Sister has already proven true. Go Girl Power! EcoDhaga is a women-led, women-run business working towards creating a climate-positive legacy! We also love promoting and highlighting other women entrepreneurs who inspire us!

Riddle us this: What is frequent, natural, and affects over half the world population and is yet completely ignored by society? Menstruation. The M word, (for menstruation or mahavari in Hindi) has long been stigmatized in our vocabulary and society. It is not a topic considered suitable for polite conversations. The stigma and sociocultural norms around menstruation and menstrual hygiene in India violate and impact several human rights, including, but not limited to the right to human dignity, right to equality, bodily integrity, health, privacy, and the right to freedom from inhumane and degrading treatment from abuse and violence. Beware the monthly monster: Menstruation and social stigma in India It’s time to break the silence and talk about periods. Most of the social stigmas come from a lack of awareness. In India, women on their periods are considered impure, dirty, or unclean. The Furore that ensued in the wake of the contentious Sabrimala Judgement goes to show that the ‘unclean’ image of women of menstruating ages is still prevalent and widely accepted in pockets of India. Women are not allowed to pray, cook, or serve food or water, during their periods. In rural India, often women are required to sleep alone or away from other family members and some parts of India also practice the tradition of chaupadi or their own iteration of it. These stigmas also lead to the unavailability of adequate sanitation in many parts of the country, which leads to the usage of cloth pieces, mud, leaves, etc., which pose obvious risks to their health. Menstruation and Women’s Participation in the Economy Taboos around the menstrual and sexual health of women also affect women’s contribution to the economy. The topic is more pertinent in India, which ranks as the third worst nation in Asia for gender equality. The issue of menstrual hygiene goes deeper than which sanitary products are used. Clean infrastructure also matters. The lack of infrastructure leads to girls dropping out of school when they start menstruating, especially in rural India. Women are forced to cover long distances to change their pads due to the lack of women’s toilets with proper locks on them. In rural India, a working woman needs to take 5 days of leave per month on average. If the woman is a day laborer or farm worker who receives wages for work per day, she loses out around a quarter of her monthly earnings. Menstrual Hygiene and Women’s Health Additionally, 70% of all reproductive diseases in India were caused by poor menstrual health, which also affects maternal mortality rate and cervical cancer rate. According to the WHO, India accounts for 27 percent of the world’s cervical cancer deaths. The incidence rate there is almost twice the global average and doctors studying the disease believe poor menstrual hygiene is partly to blame. The homespun ‘solutions’ or home-sewn cloth pads raise the risk of vaginal infections that suppress the reproductive tract’s natural defenses. A weaker immune response can compromise the body’s ability to fight the sexually transmitted human papillomavirus, the microbial cause of most cervical cancers. Menstrual Waste Management When discussing the issue of menstrual hygiene, we must also consider disposal, waste management, and the impact on the environment. The choice of absorbents varies among rural and urban women and girls, depending on personal choice, cultural acceptability, economic status, and availability in the local market. In rural areas, the most preferred sanitary products are reusable cloth pads, and in urban areas, women prefer to use commercial sanitary pads. It must be pointed out that the adhesive wings and perforated plastic layers on a disposable sanitary napkin are not biodegradable and may take up to 800 years to decompose. For deodorized sanitary products, chemicals used in bleaching such as organochlorines, tend to disturb the soil and microflora and take longer to decompose. It is estimated that each woman will generate 125-150 kgs of sanitary waste in her lifetime. That is over 108,000 tonnes of menstrual waste a year in India. It’s Time for Action The theme of Menstrual Hygiene Day 2019—It’s Time for Action—not only emphasizes the urgency of this public health and environmental issue but also highlights the transformative power of improved menstrual hygiene. There are various things that can be done at an individual, organizational, local, and national level to educate the masses on menstrual hygiene issues: Sex education in schools with courses on menstrual health, hygiene, disposal, and waste management. Talk about the issues openly, break the taboo, and increase access to sanitary products for women. Include men in the conversations, as part of society men must also understand and see the value in investing in sanitary products and infrastructure; Switch to more environment-friendly sanitary products such as menstrual cups or cloth pads and spread information about their safe and hygienic use; Promote the development of sanitary infrastructure in your local municipality and surrounding areas such as toilets with adequate plumbing, water facilities, and proper locks; and Encourage government-level policies to ensure that companies manufacturing sanitary products should disclose information regarding the chemical composition of the pads, so that appropriate technology could be used for their disposal and treatment.

Quality tends to come with a price. While there are ways to mitigate some of these higher costs - buy used, wait for sales, etc. - if you want to buy excellent quality items, you're inevitably going to pay a premium price. Ever heard about the 'Boots Theory'? The "boots theory of socioeconomic unfairness" is an economic theory first popularised by English fantasy writer Terry Pratchett in his 1993 Discworld novel Men at Arms. Let us break it down for you: Vimes (a character in the book) cited his boots as an example. A great pair of boots cost fifty dollars and can keep your feet dry and comfortable for a good ten years. Vimes couldn’t afford fifty-dollar boots, so went for the ten-dollar boots which leaked and lasted a year. Add that up, and over the span of a decade, the rich man would have dry comfortable feet for fifty dollars, while the poor man would have spent 10 times that (10 dollars x 10 years = 100 dollars), and still have wet feet. Captain Samuel Vimes ‘Boots’ theory of socioeconomic unfairness” is worth remembering as we head into the turbulent economic waters of 2022 and beyond. Of course, this extra cost is not just limited to footwear. The poverty premium describes the extra costs of our most essential items including financial services, insurance, energy, and even Fashion. In a study conducted in the USA, it was estimated that most women, on average, will spend somewhere between $150 and $400 on clothing on a monthly basis, which equates to approximately $1,800 to $4,800 per year. In India, over the last sale season in 2022, e-commerce leaders sold approximately 50 lakh items in the first 24 hours alone! Why Fast Fashion is Dangerous? Fast fashion is produced when retailers constantly look at what’s in style and pump out new items almost every week. Quick and cheap fashion also means disposable fashion because most of these items don’t last in the consumer’s wardrobe for very long. Fabric quality is the first thing to be sacrificed by a Brand looking to produce styles for cheap (next to labour welfare but that's a whole other conversation). For producers to outcompete competitors they produce clothing at unrealistically low prices and extremely fast paces. This comes at the expense of the quality of the clothing and most importantly has huge consequences for the environment, human rights, and local economies. Understanding Boots theory in relation to Slow Fashion: Let’s apply the boots theory to our current shopping needs and get a better understanding of where we may be going wrong. Let’s say you buy a jacket which would be worth Rs.7,000 if you bought it from a named luxury brand, but you buy it for just Rs.1000 from your favourite fast fashion brand. Now your friend on the other hand decides to spend that Rs.7,000 on the jacket and it lasts her for a good 7 years. Your jacket, which is a "copy" or "fast fashion version" of the same jacket would probably last you for 6 months only. You may then opt for another brand with a higher price than your previous jacket and spend Rs.2500 this time, which eventually would wear off within a year because of the quality. Now cut to 7 years, you would have spent at least Rs.10,000 more than your friend. You will in fact end up spending more than your friend on one jacket that could have otherwise lasted you for a good number of years without you having to spend as much. Spend Less, Save More! Now fellow thrifters & conscious consumers, you’re in for some good news! Guess what? By Thrifting you’re buying high-quality products at affordable prices. And the best part about thrifting is it has other added benefits too. Not only can you save money, but find unique pieces for your wardrobe and reduce your carbon footprint too! Money makes money, but having money also saves you money. The more money you have, the more wealth you're able to build not only because you have extra to save, but also because you buy higher quality things that last, therefore spending less in the long run. Sometimes in the effort to save money in the short term, we lose out in the long term. With the advent of Fast fashion, garment purchases have become a low-involvement purchase for us all. Maybe if we change that, and start paying attention to our purchase choices, we can help each other and the planet in efficient ways! Find high-quality branded products with EcoDhaga at affordable prices.

Sustainable living, my journey started when all my family members began encountering some type of disease, all of which were a result of a poor lifestyle. It got me thinking, how are we contributing to the ill health of our families and our planet? In this fast-paced generation, where everything must be "instant" and convenience takes precedence over anything else, I took a pause to reflect on my choices and if I could be doing things differently. LESSONS FROM SCHOOL CHILDREN THAT WE AS URBAN ADULTS SHOULD TAKE! Five years ago, I was working with the Adivasi children from the Aarey city forest, “Sanjay Gandhi National Park (SGNP)” in Mumbai. As volunteers, we had the opportunity to take these urban adivasi children for a cross-cultural program at Secmol, a school about 20Km from Leh, run by Sonam Wangchuk (the man behind ice stupas). What we experienced there changed my outlook on life and our lifestyle! Not only did the experience enrich the students' lives, but it also gave me so many (lessons) to take back home. A few things that struck me and stayed with me from this excursion: The interiors and architectural design of the school were such, that it was appropriate to nature, throughout the year, even without electricity. Yes, bio-phyllic design is a thing and can help transform societies and communities where they are adapted! They grew most of their food on their own farms and cooked using solar cookers. They had eight different categories for segregating their dry waste, and they also composted everything! Yes, that means they excreted in pit toilets, which turned waste into compost, which was then used to fertilise their crops! As it is said, when good becomes clear, the bad becomes clearer, and that’s exactly what happened to me. After seeing these students of Secmol, I could see what a bad influence we had on the students of SGNP. I will never forget the sight of our collective "plastic waste" that we had brought with us on the trip and had to dump off at Ladakh airport as Secmol didn’t allow such waste inside. It was sad, shocking and eye-opening at the same time! KNOWING AND GOING ZERO WASTE Everyone talked about the 3 R’s; REDUCE, REUSE & RECYCLE, forgetting about another one: REFUSE. I started my journey by refusing to use single-use plastic immediately. And this minimalistic lifestyle brought me to the concept of zero waste. A low-waste or no-waste lifestyle can look different for different people based on their current levels of consumption and waste accumulation. To me, it basically meant, not sending any garbage to the dump site. In other words, taking responsibility for your own shit. I started to understand the difference between Linear economy (putting the garbage inside the dustbin) and Circular economy (making sure that whatever resources we consume from the earth return to their original state). It’s been almost four years of living a low-waste lifestyle and working towards a zero-waste lifestyle. One of the most important parts of my journey is to read, constantly ask relevant questions about my lifestyle, and be creative and experimentative with the solutions. Let me share a few of my favourites with you guys: MY OWN MAGIC BAG I was meeting a friend at a mall for lunch, and that was the first time I tried out my “magic bag” experiment. The bag contained a water bottle, a plate, a tiffin box, a small box, a cup, a metal straw, two spoons, and two small handkerchiefs. Walking up to the food counter with my steel mug took courage, but I had made up my mind, and even though the staff serving me found me weird and my idea confusing, he adhered to what I asked and served me my juice in my steel glass. It has been more than a year since that day, and I have successfully avoided thousands of disposable items. What a simple, neat way to refuse to generate waste without missing the joys of life with friends and family. MOST UNDERRATED FRUIT EVER: REETHA This amazing fruit needs special mention. Reetha, or soap nut, is such a versatile seed/nut/fruit that I was beyond astonished. This one ingredient has changed my low-waste journey! I would boil Reetha in water, mix the concentrate either with lemon or essential oils and salt, and make all possible cleaners at home. With the introduction of Reetha solution in my household, I now don’t use detergent, phenyl, dishwashers, glass cleaners, and not even Harpic! And yes, it works on all kinds of stains and cleaning needs! This fruit is very versatile and is easily available at any of the ayurvedic stores. Also, it does wonders for your hair if you consider swapping out your shampoo! IS IT EVEN POSSIBLE TO SHOP PACKAGING FREE? Are you new to the low-waste journey? Do you wonder, how much you can really do without giving up your current lifestyle? I get it! We are all used to grocery deliveries in minutes with a few simple clicks. But let me remind you that "convenience" comes at a cost to the planet(excluding the delivery charges and packaging charges, of course!)! I switched to purchasing from the old-fashioned local Kirana stores where you would find anything and everything UNPACKAGED in homemade (reusable) cotton pouches of varying sizes. I used metal or glass containers to get oil in. And this was my NO to plastic packaged food inside my house; to this day, it remains the same. CHOOSING BETTER Every time I achieve a zero-waste travel experience or discover a new way of reducing waste, my excitement and wonder is inexplicable. The satisfaction of leading a life that is healthy, not only for myself but also for the environment, is something I think, everybody should experience at least once. A zero-waste lifestyle does not require an elaborative setup but for you to simplify things and be creative in your everyday life. This lifestyle can inspire you and everyone around you to be healthier and more compassionate towards the environment that we live in. I am still progressing, learning to go from a low-waste lifestyle to probably an even lower one. I started being aware of and dealing with many complex problems, like carbon emissions, various kinds of pollution, global warming, etc., without even realizing it. The biggest piece of advice that I can give to someone is not to undervalue yourself. You alone can make an enormous difference by not participating in something that you don’t feel okay with. SAYING NO IS SAYING A LOT. CHANGE THE WAY YOU CONSUME & DISPOSE OF FASHION WITH ECODHAGA EcoDhaga is India's first closed-loop fashion brand that focuses on giving a new life to fashion waste created by consumers. Not only do we thrift, but we also repair, restyle, donate, upcycle and recycle fabric we receive from individuals. So you're saving the planet when you shop with us, one outfit at a time!

How many times have you struggled to fit into a garment of your usual size in a trial room? You try on a different garment of the same size. And voila! It fit - you kind of like the first garment. The larger size fits you too. But most likely, you will choose not to buy it because it has a size label that does not make you feel comfortable. What is Vanity Sizing? Shopping can be a challenging experience for some women, as many find it difficult to find a size that fits them due to there not being uniform sizing guidelines across brands. This is due to brands using vanity sizing. Most brands deliberately skew their sizes, based on the idea that people might feel better if the tag on the clothing says a size (or two or three) smaller than they wear in other brands. This is precisely what vanity sizing is. Where did Vanity Sizing Originate? The origin of vanity sizing lies in the United States, with the American women getting bigger over the years. The original sizing system of 1958 was updated again and again until it was completely discarded in 1983. The result was that the manufacturers were free to define their own sizes. Soon they began to size downwards to flatter the consumer. However, vanity sizing is just not about making the sizes smaller. Some lingerie brands promote brassieres to make women feel they have bigger breasts. These brands make its brassieres fit up to three sizes up than usual. It is evident that we live in a society where size matters. If it was not for the media preaching that thin is beautiful and beautiful is thin, women would not be scared of going up or down sizes. Body Image and Vanity Sizing: The only way to avoid getting hung up on the size you wear is to understand how the fashion industry works and to realize that sizes on a label do not define you. It must always be remembered sizes are just numbers, they don’t define a person. And this trend has now permeated the shopping experience of women of all shapes and sizes. Yet the negative impact that vanity sizing has on body image and mental well-being could be colossal. Rising above Size Charts: However, some brands are making an effort to solve this issue. Rational Dress Society sells its jumpsuits in 248 different sizes. The sizes are derived from taking specific measurements and body types and instead of assigning a numeric size, their sizes are randomly named like ‘delta’, ‘alpha’, ‘buffy’, ‘tango’, etc. This model may not work for all fashion brands, yet this can change the way women feel about size labels and ease their anxiety. The point of fashion is to make us feel good, to allow us to show the world who we are. Vanity sizing can be viewed as a misguided attempt to accomplish this while requiring as little effort as possible on the part of the manufacturer. The additional effort of finding a perfect fit falls to the consumer. With the world becoming increasingly educated on topics like gender fluidity, human diversity, and body positivity, women are exploring new ways to convey their identities through what they wear. Made-to-measure addresses the problem of vanity sizing by changing not only how we shop, but how we view our bodies in relation to size. It’s not in vain to feel confident, and it’s definitely overdue for women who’ve been gaslighted by bogus sizing for decades. At EcoDhaga we recognize that not all brands are made to fit Indian sizes. Our size chart accounts for the Indian body. Make fashion fun and non-judgemental with EcoDhaga!

I am a 21-year-old student about to complete my Bachelor’s degree from a UK university. I was born and brought up in the streets of Vadodara, in a Hindu, non-vegetarian family that loves to shop. Six years ago, I was no different from my family and friends. I was about to graduate from high school and head into the real world. I was taking long vacations, partying, and eating weird, worldly cuisine like octopus. I had begun to apply for a BSc in Product Design in the USA and was ready to come out of my shell and fly into a new world. Little did I know about the realities of the world and what the future held for me. A “HIPPIE” REALISATION In February 2017, I came across a documentary by Al Gore; you know the one: An Inconvenient Truth. That sparked something inside me: a combination of fear and determination. I read more about climate change and it scared me silly. I saw documentaries about eco-terrorism, the environmental crisis, and how we could stop it. This helped me understand the depth of the issue, and how people are willing to go to jail or even die for the environment. Let me elaborate. In 2017, 46 environmentalists were murdered in the Amazon due to agribusinesses. Nat-Geo reported that 207 activists in total, died protecting those forests in a year. I still remember that I cried when I saw the pain in the eyes of the people in the documentary about the Earth Liberation Front. It made me question everything I had ever believed in. I questioned my morality, my ethics, my purpose, and the meaning of life. Soon after, I withdrew my applications for Product Design and sent new ones for BSc in Environmental Science. I realized early on that the purpose of my life is to serve others. Climate change is already a devastating issue that affects everyone, regardless of caste, gender, or socio-economic background. This is why it made the most sense that I spend my life serving mankind by doing my part and helping to sustain the planet. AN ENVIRONMENTALIST When I started my journey to become an environmentalist, I underestimated how life-altering it would be. From the first day of my Bachelor’s, we were trained to question every single decision we made. Some of the questions we were asked included, “what is the carbon footprint, water footprint, and ecological footprint of every action?” Ultimately, I came across alternative ways to live my life as a 17-year-old aspiring environmentalist. I started to take care of my waste disposal, used public transportation, and avoided unnecessary shopping. I even started buying locally-grown produce. And, then came that one decision that completely changed my life; I decided to go vegan. VEGANISM Veganism has become a raging trend; it has become one of the most popular diets in the past few years. It’s not just a diet, but a lifestyle change where people avoid the use of animal products as much as possible. This includes their diets, clothing, and everyday life. People become vegan for either their health, animal welfare, or environmental reasons. My Vegan journey began in February 2017, and by July of the same year, I became vegan. I stopped consuming meat, eggs, milk, and dairy products. And that was when all hell broke loose. Everyone around me claimed this was too ‘extreme’, and I was ‘senseless’. My family members, friends, relatives, and even neighbors, all started criticizing me for my choice and tried explaining to me, rather aggressively, that their way of living was correct. AFTERMATH It has been more than 5 years since I turned vegan, and I have helped convert quite a few people to the vegan lifestyle. In 2018, my mom started following a vegan diet, mostly to support me, and I appreciate it. Additionally, a few of my close friends were motivated by my move to the vegan lifestyle and stood beside me these past years. Many of my friends now see the threat climate change poses, and ask me what they can do on a personal level. They have even tried reducing their meat and dairy consumption, which is a start. I believe the only way forward is to be outraged as well as optimistic about the climate crisis. We need to live more consciously and make lifestyle changes and we need to change government policies and ideologies if we are to fight the good fight. I’m up for it, are you? Start your sustainable journey with EcoDhaga today!

My journey to sustainability began on 11th December 2022, the day I walked into the office of EcoDhaga as their new digital marketing intern. One of the first few things I learned about was the UN 2030 sustainable development goals (SDGs) and how EcoDhaga was contributing toward them, specifically SDG 8 and SDG 12. As someone from a medical background, I had minimal knowledge about sustainability. I was doing the usual, “switching off the lights after leaving my room”, “not littering”, “trying to avoid plastic”, etc., which made me believe I was “woke”. Don’t get me wrong, I’m not belittling my practices, but this was my understanding of sustainability 6 months ago. Now working as their digital marketing intern, I had to intensively research various aspects of the fashion industry and its impact on climate change. This opened an entirely new world to me. During my research, I went through articles that highlighted how the impacts of climate change on different sectors of society are interrelated. However, I also noticed sustainable practices around me in my office. To sight a few examples, I observed Sanjana reusing the RO water to water her plants and Ashni shopping minimally, only when necessary. Now, I realize that climate change is alarming but there’s also so much we can individually do to take positive climate action. So the key is not perfection, but progress. It's an ongoing process and like any journey, the hardest part is being patient and getting started. “The climate emergency demands action from all of us. We need to get to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050 and everyone has a role to play.” Niklas Hagelberg, UNEP’s Climate Change Coordinator What you can do: Start Small: It’s overwhelming at first and so tempting to just change everything. That is exhausting and can lead to mistakes. Be patient, take your time to do research, and make it a little less daunting by changing maybe one small thing every week or month. Something as small as gift wrapping a present yourself with available jute cloth and ribbons, or shopping secondhand, could be a start. Do Your Research: Follow trusted sources and stay up to date. Try to learn what makes a product sustainable. Something that has really helped me do this, is signing up for email subscriptions - very easy and low-effort ways to stay in the loop! Here are a few articles I found useful while starting out my journey in understanding climate change & its effects: UNEP Climate Action Note | Data you need to know 1.5 or 2 degrees Celsius of additional global warming: Does it make a difference? 10 ways you can help fight the climate crisis Get Creative: If you’re an avid social media user like me, you can document your journey and start a series on Instagram by posting 1 story a day about “ 1 sustainable thing I did today.” It’s exciting, boosts you, and helps promote sustainability amongst your peers. While doing my research I also heard some great talks that really inspired me to take positive climate action. Here are a few really insightful and eye-opening talks that you all will definitely take away from, just as I did. Why I live a zero waste life | Lauren Singer | TEDxTeen The Wardrobe To Die For | Lucy Siegle | TEDxSalford The Ugly Truth Of Fast Fashion | Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj | Netflix The disarming case to act right now on climate change | Greta Thunberg I’ve been on my sustainability journey for a while. I still don’t have everything down pat and do see lots of opportunities to further my sustainable practices. But over time, there are a lot of things I have learned, especially looking back on my journey. It’s not a one-and-done achievement. But like they say “ Small steps can lead to big changes.” Start your sustainable journey with EcoDhaga today!

Love fashion, but don’t love how they’re made? Or you might just be unaware that some of those sexy siren outfits come from animal testing and products. Got a favourite pair of leather boots that you think goes with everything? We all know how leather, wool and silk are extracted but have we ever thought about the conditions the animals are reared in to provide us with these jolly treasures of fashion? Dear sister-in-arms, “sustainable” fashion goes beyond the fabric and asks us to consider the cost of our choices. The use of animal products and animal testing for fashion is not a new trend. Images of early human civilization will tell you that at some point, the use of animal fur was not a fashion choice but a functional one. Today, it's less about function and more about convenience and appearance, and those helpless animals cannot truly defend themselves, so here we are! As advocates for a better world, we can make a difference. As consumers, we can bring more consciousness to this farm-to-fashion segment by opting for alternatives and creating demand for such innovative holistic solutions. We have put together a list of sustainable alternatives to help you get started on your journey without causing further harm to our planet and all its inhabitants, which includes our fur babies and misunderstood arthropods. Sustainable Silk Yes, please! Indian fashion, while at strides with global fashion, is unique in itself. Our colours and fabrics are unmatched. We all have a few of our mom’s silk sarees earmarked for future use. What if we told you that when curating your dream silk collection, there are alternatives you can consider? From bamboo silk to microsilk to ramie silk, the resources and technology exist to stop the over-farming of silkworms. FabIndia, Kala Niketan, Soch and Nalli, if you’re listening in, please do us, your sustainable peeps, a solid and see if we can bring this technology to our traditional wear. Plant Based Leather Not to be confused with Pleather - which has plastic derivatives. While pleather can be sustainable IF recycled plastic is being used for its manufacture, currently, there is just not enough transparency to give us that confidence to label pleather as sustainable. Do you know what is? Vegan plant-based leather alternatives! There are so many brands globally that are working towards re-imagining leather: from mushroom-based leather and pineapple leather to leather made from cacti, some pioneers have not only understood the assignment of sustainable fashion but are also setting new benchmarks to aspire to. The adoption of vegan leather is picking up in India, which is encouraging. Cranking it up a notch, we have fashion accessories brands that have embraced the new material and are PETA certified Vegan brands: PAIO, Aulive, Broke Mate, Zouk Sustainable Wool Wait! I thought wool was already sustainable! *confused in fashion*. Ideally, yes. The way our ancestors used to farm and rear sheep for wool was sustainable. In our overcrowded and mass-produced era, it has gotten a bit knotted. Wool as a fabric has amazing longevity; I have a few shawls in my mom’s closet on hold too. And soft and pure as the pashmina feels against the skin, we must admit that the documentary on how sheep are reared and sheared to get that wool was a rough watch. From discomfort comes disruptive innovation: WeganOOL, a vegan wool brand based right here in India, has come up with an alternative that has all the warmth and frills without the guilt of wearing wool. Admittedly, from the use of animals in fashion to fashion for animals, we have evolved a long way. There is a lot more ground to cover. If you’re looking for animal-friendly fashion, start here: Do not discard anything that you already own because it's not “sustainable”. Now that it has made its way into your closet, the better thing to do would be to take good care of it and use it for as long as possible, i.e. elongate its life to the product’s fullest, and when you’re done, donate it forward. Fashion has become a very low-investment purchase, i.e. we scroll and buy mindlessly. The one-click satisfaction and endless sales are enough to tempt us. But let’s change that, shall we? Ask more questions about the processes, sourcing, and ethical values of your favourite brands! You might be pleasantly surprised at the outcome. Collaborative efforts from high fashion brands saw that mink and fur were ruled out from their runways! Shop second-hand. Yes, you lift, but do you also thrift? Building a sustainable lifestyle for yourself should also include building practices that are better for the planet. You’ve switched your diet and your routine; why not your shopping pattern? Thrifting is also a fantastic way to reduce production demand for new products, keep the existing items in circulation for their lifespan, and help cut carbon costs. Thrift and Find at EcoDhaga

Our founders attended the ET E-commerce and Digital Natives Summit held in Bangalore on 30 August 2022 and it was 🔥. As we’re recovering from a post pandemic situation globally, the esteemed panellists and speakers discussed the trends in consumer behaviour online and the future for e-commerce businesses in India. "E-commerce is more than just having an online website. The growth of online retail and evolving nature of consumers has given rise to vertical retail trends such as direct to consumer, mobile commerce, phygital shopping, content, and community building. Many say e-commerce is the future of retail. However, interestingly e-commerce has blurred the lines, giving rise to channel-less retail in India." - 2nd Edition #ETECommSummit It was inspiring to hear growth stories from brands which have now become household names like: Google Cloud Retail, Message Bird, Amazon India, Meesho, H&M India, USPL, Fashmates, Ozonetel, Bluestone Jewellery, Redbus India, Flipkart, AJIO, Caratlane, Nykaa Fashion, among so many others. There was a consensus that assumptions about global trends online do not directly translate to India. The key to growing as a D2C brand is to analyse and track how us, as Indians, show up online and our buyer behaviour online. So the lessons from brands who have been surfing the D2C space for years were helpful in guiding strategy. It was also encouraging to hear the DPIIT representative talk about building an ecosystem to facilitate growth in the e-commerce and retail sector. With such government - private sector partnership, there truly is a way to build a sustainable future and tap into this nation's potential. As an e-commerce business ourself, we at EcoDhaga are constantly learning how to best serve our customers and meet their specific needs while thrifting online. Everyone at the summit yesterday concurs - the key to building an e-commerce business is resiliency and incorporating innovation to maximise customer experience. After an invigorating discussion yesterday, our team is working on bringing some new exciting technology partnerships and product offers to become better! Here’s to changing the way we consume and dispose off fashion in India alongside our community! 🥂

Celebrating local brands this 75th Independence Day Amrit Mahotsav with Bangalore Santhe and BMRCL. Come meet incredible local businesses that are working to solve social and environmental problems in India. EcoDhaga will be among them! Come, Interact, Shop, Explore and Celebrate together!

What’s more fantastic than owning a celebrity closet? Owning an eco-friendly one! Let’s look at some fantastic celebrity outfits we noticed and matched with EcoDhaga's sparkling inventory of pre-loved clothing! The Dhadak Heartthrob in her Elegance & Element Jahnvi Kapoor is known for her graceful fashion sense inherited from her iconic mother. You can thrift this look without burning a hole through your pocket - Style humble and stay fashionable with this embroidered kurta with full sleeves of sheer. How can you not drool over the iconic Rachel look? Rachel has always been the showstopper regarding subtle yet spectacular fashion choices on the remarkable TV series that will never go out of vogue. But can you believe that with EcoDhaga you can thrift fashionable and close copies of her outfits for under Rs. 1000? More of a Monica fan? Don't Shy Away Just Yet... Courtney Cox's ditsy and cute portrayal of Monica had us all charmed. We loved how each character dresses up for their personality and Monica was all about pairing from her pret couture, using simple cuts but with a tinge of colour to them. If you like her scrappy style, thrift for similar outfits on EcoDhaga's online thrift store. Dear Zindagi, Thrifting can be so much fun! The movie made you feel fun, flowy, and light. So then, why miss out on the outfits? Here’s a fantastic look put together as the perfect dupe to Alia Bhatts’ iconic look as Kaira. Sing out loud "You Belong with Me" to these thrifted finds Break up with Fast-fashion and embrace your no f*s attitude by thrifting for good. Make a blank space in your closet for this remarkable thrift duo which will get you compliments like “You’re so gorgeous!” - be it a cruel summer or gentle rain. Get the Royal Luxe without the Bentley Billings Dressing like a Royal has never been more effortless! So whether you opt for a sophisticated midi dress or sensible pair of heels, at EcoDhaga you can find the right outfit for you to look like Kate Middleton on a fun outing without breaking the bank. Don't Let this one go, Alizeh! Nothing screams subtle yet festive than a mustard yellow Anarkali kurta. And we are already drooling in Anushka Sharma’s Ae Dil Hain Mushkil looks - then why wait? Here is the perfect thrifted style to owning this celebrity look and saving the earth in one swift click! Get the Deepika Fresh off the Flight Look Her flawless style and neat appearances have a lot to do with the styles she chooses. Thrift this popular look at a fraction of the price and look paparazzi ready at the click of a button. Why choose EcoDhaga? EcoDhaga is India's first closed-loop fashion brand that focuses on giving a new life to fashion waste created by consumers. Not only do they thrift, but they also recycle, donate, and upcycle fabric they receive from individuals. We have collected and redirected 1200 kgs of textile waste in Bangalore and are just getting started! Overall, this has saved 30,000 kgs of CO₂ emissions in 2021. Furthermore, none of the donations they have collected have been trashed. So when you donate to or buy from EcoDhaga, you are saving the earth and future generations from the toxic effects of global warming. Explore more of EcoDhaga's collection here!

We've all heard about the 3R's - Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. At EcoDhaga, they look beyond the obvious 3Rs and try to encompass more in all that they do: Reduce, Reuse, Repair, Rethink, Reclaim, Repurpose, and Recycle. Read more about how EcoDhaga imbibes these values and how you can too with easy to implement mindset shifts. So what are the 7R's. Let's have a look at them in detail below: #1: Reduce #2: Reuse #3: Repair #4: Rethink #5: Reclaim #6: Repurpose #7: Recycle #1 Reduce: The first step in your sustainable journey should be refuse: saying no to buying things in a consumerist culture might be harder than we think. Reducing our waste output requires us to refuse additional purchase which have the potential to generate waste. By thrifting wearables in excellent condition with EcoDhaga, we can reduce the resource demand for manufacturing new products, while still meeting consumer requirements of new styles to update our wardrobes. #2 Reuse: Indian Mom's have mastered the art of reusing every last bit of resources at home. Whether it is inventing new dishes from leftovers, or using old t-shirts as a dusting cloth. Reusing material, any material, can help keep it out of our trash for longer, while extracting maximum use from it. Prefer reusable cutlery over disposables (even if biodegradable, there is enough trash being generated, and we can shift that by small degrees). Here, the team at EcoDhaga works diligently to pick and segregate clothes according to their utility and potential. Depending on whether it is wearable or torn, they allocate it to the best department, to reuse it in the most efficient way possible. #3 Repair: If something breaks, we usually finds it easy to replace it, than to take out the time and energy to repair it. Can we at least try, out of minor inconveniences, to fix it instead of throwing away valuable resources? EcoDhaga often receives clothes that are otherwise in excellent condition, but have minor wear and tear that can be fixed with simple repairs. They do their best to salvage these items and repair them discreetly. You can look for repair or damage disclosures on the thrift store listed items. #4 Rethink: Rethinking your consumer habits is a starting point; figure out your needs vs. wants. A simple query like: I need to keep snacks at home, vs. I want to get branded packaged snacks. There are options available, but we must choose to rethink how and what we consume. Team EcoDhaga works with limited resources and only relies on materials donated for their thrift store and upcycled range. They take it as a creative challenge to rethink ways to recycle, upcycle and use fabric to salvage textile from landfills. #5 Reclaim: This one requires us to reclaim resources that would otherwise be wasted. A broken cup can be made into a tiny fairy garden, instead of being disposed unsafely (it can cut the waste workers who might be unaware of what's in your trash bags). Use old denim to make home waxing strips (seriously!). Reclamation requires some effort and out of the box thinking! As a circular brand, EcoDhaga's vision is to reclaim post-consumption fabric waste and intervene before the fabrics reach landfills. So far, they have collected and redirected 1200+ kgs of textile waste in Bangalore and are just getting started! Overall, this has saved 30,000 kgs of CO2 emissions in just 2021 (they, however, believe its barely a drop in where we need to get in terms of our CO2 emissions reduction globally). #6 Repurpose: If you really open up your imagination, old items including clothes can be repurposed within your own household too. How about turning your old dresser into a bookshelf? Cutting kitchen floor mats from old rugs/faded carpets? Turning old towels into surface cleaners? EcoDhaga repurposes fabric and reimagines the best ways to use them, for example, turning torn clothes into their quirky cloth packaging bags and small products and gifts for their community members. #7 Recycle: Recycling should be the last resort, not the first option when disposing our waste. Its a good option to have, don't get us wrong, but recycling takes a lot of effort, segregation and energy to accomplish. Tap into your kabadiwala or raddiwala network to recycle from your homes at ease. EcoDhaga is also exploring fibre reclamation and recycling as a suitable way to prevent waste fabric from ending up in landfills. They have taken up the task of segregating our post-consumption fabric waste, and training and ups killing waste workers to help India's visions of achieving textile recycling. They truly endeavour to close the loop sustainably. We all love brands that encourage and urge their community members to take this journey towards a more sustainable living, one step at a time. The 7 R's don't need to be daunting when you have friends, guides and companions as tribe EcoDhaga. Donate, Thrift, Repair, Restyle, Repurpose, Upcycle and Recycle with EcoDhaga today.

It’s no secret that our planet is in trouble. Climate is changing and we must too, if we want to have any sort of sustainable future on this planet. The signs are everywhere: melting glaciers, rising sea levels, and more frequent and intense storms. The Earth is changing and it is happening faster than we thought it would. The intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimated an alarming 3.5 degrees celsius rise in global temperatures if we don’t take significant action to reduce emissions by 2030. There are some things we can do to make a difference. They don't have to be loud gestures or grand shifts, but minor adjustments, that would help make a difference in the long term. Here are 10 switches you can make today to save the planet: #1 Travel Sustainably Be mindful of your emissions while booking your travels. If you absolutely must travel by air, consider airlines that are investing in sustainable practices. Psst, also as a tourist we often forget about what we're buying and how we're disposing. Small steps like taking the train or buses to your destination, will help us preserve our planet in the long run. #2 Switch to LED Bulbs Did you know that LED bulbs to use upto 75% less energy than traditional incandescent bulbs, and last up to 25 times longer? Making this switch can help you save money on your energy bill while reducing your carbon footprint. #3 Switch to Carpools or Public Transportation If you live in a city, carpooling or taking public transportation is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint. If you must drive, try to consolidate your errands into one trip. And when you’re not using your car, park it in the shade to keep it cool and reduce emissions from air conditioning. When stopped at a red light with more than 15 seconds on the timer, turn off your engines and save some of the fuel. #4 Eat Less Meat and Dairy Not ready to go vegan yet? We understand, but meat and dairy products are responsible for significant greenhouse gas emissions. Just ask Bill Gates about his thoughts on this. Reducing (even if not eliminating) your meat consumption can make a big difference. When grocery shopping, choose sustainable options like organic, grass-fed, free range meat options when you do buy or eat meat. #5 Switch to Compostable or Recycled Products When you’re at the store, look for products that are made from recycled materials or that can be composted. This includes recycled kitchen towels, toilet paper, and shopping bags. And if you have a yard or a balcony, start home composting your food scraps to reduce waste and create nutrient-rich manure for your plants. There are a lot of home composting solutions available in India. #6 Use Reusable Water Bottles and Coffee Cups Avoid buying plastic water bottles everywhere you go. Ditch the disposables and switch to reusable options instead. There are tons of great reusable water bottles on the market, and many coffee shops now give you a discount if you bring your own cups. #7 Donate and don't litter One easy way to reduce your impact on the planet is simply not litter. Part of the climate solution not only requires us to question how we purchase, but also how we dispose of our waste. Instead of trashing things that will end up in the landfills, look for local solutions where you can donate or responsibly recycle your domestic waste. By donating clothes, furniture, and other items instead of throwing them away, you help move away from the linear use-and-throw economy. This keeps usable items out of landfills and reduces the emissions associated with manufacturing new products. #8 Switch to Renewable Energy If you’re able, switch to renewable energy sources like solar or wind power. Thanks to technology advancements and government incentives, it has become cheaper to install solar panels for households. This is a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and help you save money on your energy bill. Many utility companies offer green energy options, so ask them about it. #9 Reduce Food Waste Food waste is a significant problem in terms of the carbon emissions associated with growing food that goes uneaten and the methane emissions from decomposing food in landfills. So, do your part by reducing food waste in your home. Plan your meals, make a grocery list, and only buy what you need, only cook what you'll eat. This sounds obvious but, start with giving away left-overs to your domestic help, or even use it to feed the strays in your locality or just leave it out for birds and squirrels around your home. Nothing is wasted until we waste it. #10 Educate Yourself and Others Finally, one of the best things you can do for the planet is educating yourself and others about environmental issues. The more people are aware of the problem, the more likely they will make changes in their own lives. So, start a conversation and help spread the word about the importance of taking action on climate change. Fashion choices that can help save the planet EcoDhaga is India's first ethical, closed-loop fashion brand that focuses on giving a new life to fashion waste created by consumers. Not only do we thrift, but we also recycle, donate, and upcycle fabric we receive from individuals. So when you shop with us, you're saving the planet, one outfit at a time! Start your sustainable journey with EcoDhaga today!

It's vacation time! This is the time of the year when everyone gears up for a vacation and books their tickets. Most long vacations are usually planned, where you have ample time to get your outfits right. The worst part about vacation planning is the pre-packing panic stage when you realise you do not have any cute outfits! Has this ever happened that you are traveling on a budget but spending more on your vacation closet than on the actual trip? I mean, it's a small cost to get those perfect Instagram ready We feel you, and we hear you! Here's a few recommendations for your upcoming vacations, my lovelies: We are here to capture overall styles you need to keep in mind while you pack for holidays based on your destination of choice. Beach Babies and Tanning Bums Choose a simple sundress, a breezy maxi dress, or a well-made romper. While stylish sandals are appropriate, typical beach flip-flops should be avoided. Short-sleeved shirts, such as polos, and stylish shorts (think Chinos) with a belt, are permissible. Hills beat alive in your Soul Oversized jumpers or sweaters that can be easily paired with jeans, overalls, or knit pants are a must. A poncho looks classy and cozy indoors, near the fireplace. If you want to spend your time outside, bring your down jacket, a pair of hiking boots, and a beanie. Venturing into the Wild What’s wildlife adventure without a bit of dirt touching your ankles? Try capris and shorts with light, flowy tops with a nice hat, sunglasses, and a denim jacket for the evening mist. Psst, because we love you, don't forget to pack that sunscreen and mosquito guard for when the bugs come in! ;) Exploring History and Heritage Experiment with maxi dresses, jumpsuits, or a sarong - an ethnic print Kurti and flared pants provide the right touch and feel to match your outfit with the ambiance. Being touristy but respectful in such places is the key. Whether you want to dress to the occasion and show up like a queen at these palace grounds, or put your own twist to modest wear, we have the styles selection for you to choose from. Get Vacation Ready with EcoDhaga No matter your style, your choice of getaway destination and your quirky personality. We have something for everyone here. Styles curated by an equally diverse and meticulous team, thrifting with EcoDhaga feels just like swapping with your best friend. Have a look at EcoDhaga’s collection

The International Day against Child Labour falls on June 12 and is designated to raise awareness about the issue of child labour. In addition, it celebrates the achievements of organizations and individuals working to end Child Labour globally. Shouldn’t these Children deserve a chance to weave a better future? Child labour is the exploitation of children (under the age of 14) by businesses or governments to do hazardous work often in difficult circumstances and without pay parity. Industries that use child labour for their operations include mining, garment factories, firecracker or incense manufacturers or as farm labourers. According to the International Labour Organisation, there are about 168 million child labourers worldwide. In India, it is estimated that there are over 60 million child labourers. Child labour is a significant problem, specially in a society like India, because it deprives children of their childhood, education, and health and pepetuates their poverty. It also puts them at risk of injury or death. People who enlist child labourers might believe that children are cheaper or more compliant workers than adults or they may think that children cannot unionise or complain about working conditions. Honestly, it should be termed "child exploitation" and not merely "child labour". Child Endangerment at Garment Factories Did you know that child labour is also prevalent in the fashion and textile industry? These children who are employed in textile and garment factories are often: Exposed to hazardous materials and chemicals Worked long hours with little or no rest (overtime pay is not even a concept with children) End up injured by machinery which dramatically impairs their future. How can fashion brands and retailers stop child labour? There are several ways that fashion brands and retailers can stop child labour such as: Ensuring that their supply chains are free of child labour by auditing factories and complying with local labour laws. Building processes that work towards detecting the potential of child labourers getting involved in their supply chain. Supporting programs that provide education and vocational training to children in developing countries. Signing up to and being a part of the ‘International Accord Action Kit’ that raises awareness about the issue of child labour and encourages consumers to buy from brands that do not use child labour. It not only stops child labour but strives to make the working condition in the garment industry better with fair wages. Dear conscious consumers, I implore you to expand your definitions of “sustainable fashion” to include brands that run ethically, are socially responsible, do not exploit labour in any way, and more importantly, help build a better future for all the stakeholders. As conscious consumers you can lobby for your favourite brands and prevent children from getting involved in the supply chain of fashion brands. Close the Loop with EcoDhaga EcoDhaga is India's first closed-loop fashion brand that focuses on giving a new life to fashion waste created by consumers. Not only do we thrift, but we also repair, restyle, donate, upcycle and recycle fabric we receive from individuals. So you're saving the planet when you shop with us, one outfit at a time! Explore our collection today!

"Sustainable". "Green Brand". "Eco Fashion". "Cruelty-free". "All-Natural". "Recyclable". "Non-toxic". Sound familiar? These buzzwords might be synonymous with your favorite fashion brands. But, did you know that these buzzwords are strategically used by Fashion Brands to appeal to your sentiments and are often just placative words and look different in action. So, as conscious consumers, let us learn a bit about how we can look out for greenwashing in Fashion Brands. The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries globally. But unfortunately, it is also one of the most lucrative. So, this has led to many brands greenwashing their image or pretending to be environmentally friendly when they're not. What is Greenwashing? Greenwashing is when a company claims to be environmentally friendly in their marketing efforts but fails to show these policies in practice. This can take many forms, but some common examples are using green imagery in their branding, making claims about their products being eco-friendly without proper certification or verification, or investing in donating to “green causes” while continuing to pollute. Conscious consumers are becoming more aware but many brands continue to hoodwink and appease the “consciousness” of the consumers by greenwashing and appealing to their environmental concerns through marketing messaging. "I'm worried about Greenwashing. I think we should come down on it very very hard, whether it's with criminal intent or actively deceptive." – John Elkington Three Easy Ways to Spot Signs of Greenwashing as a conscious consumer: # 1: Check whether the brands claims about being “eco-friendly” are properly backed: This includes claims that products are made from organic materials or made with sustainably sourced materials, or made with sustainable packaging…. Sound familiar? You are not alone to fall prey to convincing communication designed to manipulate the “conscious” consumer in you. Well, in practice, it is easy to back these claims: There are global agencies that carry out environmental audits to ensure that companies claiming “environmental” standards are actually following them. Agencies like Fair Trade, Cradle to Cradle, etc. provide certifications and companies that submit themselves to these audits and certifications get bragging rights. If these audit badges are missing from your favourite brands website but their communication language implies meeting or even surpassing common environmental standards, that is a clear red flag. # 2: Understanding where Brands are meeting Minimal Legal Compliances vs Setting Environmental Standards: Many countries have now implemented laws that mandate certain levels of energy efficiency for products and certain water waste disposal standards, etc. So if you see a brand mention 'energy efficient' or ‘responsible disposal’ on a product when it's just meeting the minimum legal requirements, it’s a sign of greenwashing. Check the minimum legal environmental standards in your country and see which brands are merely compliant or whether they have gone beyond minimum requirements to show they actually care. Don’t fall for that lip service my dearies, you’re smarter than that. #3: Investing in Green Causes while Continuing to Pollute egregiously: If you spot a brand donating to green causes, such as planting trees or cleaning up beaches but also polluting through their manufacturing processes or by using unsustainable materials, it is a clear sign of greenwashing. The latest trend is claiming to use recycled material in their manufacturing range, but the truth is the efforts while exist are minimal but grossly exaggerated. This greenwashing technique makes consumers believe that the company cares about the environment when they're just trying to cover up the environmental damage they have actively contributed to. What can you do about Greenwashing? Really? The best way to combat greenwashing is to educate yourself about the issue. Fashion has become a low engagement purchase, where today, we don’t care how our fabrics are sourced or disposed of. You as a truly conscious consumer have an opportunity to change that. Ask brands the tough questions; look beyond their superbly entertaining and misleading marketing campaigns; dig deeper and get to know the brands behind their logos. Check out organisations that monitor fashion brands like Good on You or Clean Clothes Campaign, etc. This will give you an idea of how dirty the branded clothes business really is. Learn to spot the signs of greenwashing, and don't be afraid to call out brands that you think are engaging in it. You can also support sustainable fashion brands and vote with your wallet by purchasing from genuinely environmentally friendly companies. You have more power than you give yourself credit for! Researched by: @Labanya Mitra

Let’s start from the beginning. What exactly are mangroves? No, they’ve got nothing to do with a man’s facial hair. :P Mangroves are extraordinary ecosystems, located at the interface of land and sea in tropical wetland regions of some estuaries and marine shorelines. The vegetation that grows in these ecosystems are adapted to tolerate high levels of salt, low oxygen levels and harsh coastal conditions. Since they spend a lot of time partially inundated in seawater, they have evolved root-like structures which protrude above the soil to absorb oxygen directly from the air, much like breathing through a snorkel. Mangroves: swampy forests inhabited by reptiles of every shape and size and the famous Bengal tigers, don’t garner as much attention and appeal that coral reefs and rainforests enjoy; despite being a beautiful union of the two, in a way. Mangroves, are not only preferred habitat for several species but also act as natural defenses against storm surges, cyclonic events and tsunamis. They’ve recently started gaining some traction in environmental conversations, but there’s so much more to these unique ecosystems than just being coastal barricades. Good guy: Mangroves In addition to these unique traits, mangroves also play a major role in the overall wellbeing of their surrounding ecosystems and the communities. These wetland forests offer quite a rich biodiversity supporting complex communities, where thousands of species thrive and interact. They provide a valuable nursery habitat for fishes and crustaceans (crabs, prawns and shrimps); a food source for monkeys, deer, birds; and an essential source of livelihood for thousands of coastal communities. Coral bleaching in the Great Barrier Reef is something everyone has probably read or heard about and scientists predict that it will likely worsen due to the effects of climate change. The health of a coral reef is an indicator to the overall health of the ocean. But mangroves, the friendly neighbourhood superheroes that they are, provide a safe shelter for young corals and reef fishes, thus protecting them from bleaching. Studies show that there around 25 times more species of fishes in coral reefs close to mangrove areas, than in areas where mangroves have been cut down. The dense root systems of mangroves help in stabilising and shaping the coastline by preventing soil erosion and they also act as a wall against hurricanes and cyclones, preventing severe coastal damage. In addition to being a bio-shield for the coastal biodiversity and communities, mangrove ecosystems are also effective carbon sinks. They help the environment by using vast amounts of global warming causing carbon dioxide and storing them within the soil, leaves, branches, and roots. One hectare of mangrove can store 3,754 tons of carbon which is equivalent to 2,650 cars being taken off the road in one year. Heading #1: Mangroves and Mankind... Heading #2: Human Lives Depend on Environmental Rights Heading #3: 'Conservation' needs to be the conversation of the hour Mangroves and Mankind… Although they are found in more than 120 coastal countries mangrove forests are globally rare, representing less than 1% of all tropical forests worldwide, and less than 0.4% of the total global forest coverage. India has around 4921 km2 mangrove cover which accounts for 3.3% of the global mangrove cover. Sundarbans (from West Bengal up to Bangladesh), Bhitarkanika (Odisha), Pichavaram (Tamil Nadu), Godavari-Krishna delta (Andhra Pradesh), and Bartang Island (Andaman and Nicobar Islands), are just some of the better known mangrove forests of India. But just like all heroes have their nemesis, mangroves aren’t completely immune to human atrocities either. The world has lost more than 35% of its mangrove forests because of direct or indirect human intervention. This is as high as 50% in countries like India, Philippines, and Vietnam, while in the Americas they are being cleared at a rate faster than the tropical rainforests! Given their marshy surroundings, mangroves are often cleared out to make more room for agriculture, human settlements and coastal infrastructure; Mangrove-based resources like timber, and fishes and crustaceans are subjected to overharvesting and unsustainable practices to feed a growing human population and demand; Toxic chemicals waste, oil spills, and marine plastic waste smother these forests; Diversion of rivers for freshwater can lead to altering salinity levels, increasing erosion, and eventual drying out of mangroves ecosystems; Mangrove forests require stable sea levels for long-term survival, which makes them extremely sensitive to current rising sea levels and increasing ocean temperatures caused by climate change and global warming. Human Lives Depend on Environmental Rights In light of their significance and their dwindling numbers due to human influence and activities, UNESCO has declared 26 July annually as the International Day for the Conservation of the Mangrove Ecosystem for raising awareness of the importance of mangrove ecosystems and promoting their conservation. For a very long-time nature conservation has only focussed on the ecological and other biophysical conditions necessary for protecting and rehabilitating an ecosystem. What the narrative has lacked is a more robust understanding of the social aspects of conservation, such as land governance, resource rights arrangements, rights of indigenous communities, and women’s rights in decision-making, among others. Strengthening local governance systems is essential for the success of mangrove restoration and rehabilitation projects. Local communities, given their dependence on these ecosystems, are the first ones to bear the brunt of the negative effects of mangrove degradation. Likewise, they are the direct beneficiaries of the restoration projects. Experience from terrestrial forest conservation measures show that when communities are empowered and granted legitimate rights and authority to manage their own forests, the community, the government, and the forest ecology all thrive. Several countries including India, have decent legislations for the conservation and management of mangroves, but implementation and adaptation is proceeding at a snail’s pace when it comes to giving due consideration to the local communities and their rights, adopting indigenous knowledge for conservation, and participatory governance systems. ‘Conservation’ needs to be Conversation of the Hour In the meantime, what we can do is encourage sustainable fisheries, eco-tourism and coastal cleanliness drives; raise awareness about the significance of mangrove conservation; and urge authorities to consider inclusivity in their approach to coming up with solutions. Here’s an inspiring story of a local bird guide turned mangrove saviour from Goa who is utilising his knowledge of the local biodiversity to protect mangroves and raise awareness about their conservation. Mangroves play a key role in mitigating and adapting to the impacts of climate change in addition to doing so much more already. It’s therefore imperative to protect and strengthen them through a good balance of scientific know-how, socially inclusive governance institutions and by just showing these swampy treasures some love!

This Mustard Blouse with V Collar by Forever 21 is our style inspiration this season! Nothing brightens up the mood like the colour yellow. A yellow outfit can give you that extra boost of confidence to start your day and uplift others in the vicinity with a burst of positivity. Not sure if yellow is your colour and if it would complement your skin tone? Well, you'll never know until you try! Whether you are light and fair or dark and sultry, the beauty of this Mustard Blouse is that it complements all complexions alike! Let's explore three unique ways to style this mustard blouse for any occasion with EcoDhaga: Ready to Rock the Business World Style the blouse with a formal pant for those critical meetings. Embrace your BossBabe personality! Turn heads and tables! Comfort Look for those Errand Runs You can wear the mustard yellow blouse with blue denim shorts to accomplish this look. Then, match them with comfortable yet classy denim shorts for the evening outing. Get Sassy this Date Night! Pair this Mustard V-neck blouse with a black high-waisted mini skater skirt to add some flirty flair to your next date outfit. Pair with ankle strap open-toe heels to slay the look! Your closet is as dull or fun as your imagination! Follow these fantastic tips to effortlessly style this Forever 21 Mustard Yellow Blouse to look cheerful and adorable. This Forever21 Mustard Blouse is one of our favourite thrifted finds. It’s affordable, stylish, and versatile, and it can be yours with a click!

Almost everyone is familiar with the current phenomenon of thrift culture, which appears to have taken over social media, particularly Instagram. You may or may not have participated, but this new trend that has taken over the fashion business appears tough to ignore. It's 2022, and you can't shop without being accountable to yourself and the brands you buy from. We can no longer justify impulse purchases until we understand the distinction between "need" and "want." The more we spend and contribute to the rapid consumption of products, the faster we fill landfills, which are swiftly turning into toxic mountains in a third-world country. So, what is thrift culture, and why has thrifting recently become so popular? Fashion thrifting comprises purchasing clothing, accessories, or fashion items) that have been previously worn or owned, fast fashion brands' excess, or even old things that have been upcycled/repurposed and sold by thrift stores. Many people appear to participate in thrift culture to purchase their favorite branded things at off-brand prices, but is thrifting more than just cheap purchases? Yes, absolutely! Rather than being bought from a fast-fashion company, those thrift shop jeans are suitable for your pocket and the environment. Yes, thrifting has never been more fashionable or "trendy," but being ecologically concerned and aware of your buying has always been fantastic. In addition, thrift stores have grown more accessible, which is a good thing! According to ThredUp's 2020 fashion resale projection, the secondhand sector will reach $64 billion in the next five years. This is significant as it indicates how thrifting has evolved into an essential participant in the fashion industry. In addition, younger generations demonstrate a solid inclination to buy secondhand to reduce fashion waste, which gives the industry a promising future. What if I told you… The fashion industry generates 1.2 billion tonnes of greenhouse gases each year, accounting for 10% of our total emissions. That pair of jeans you are about to throw away can be worth the wastage of 10,000 water gallons. Estimated annually, 85 percent of all textiles are thrown away and in landfills; they're also a significant source of microplastic contamination in our waterways. Just washing clothes releases 500,000 tonnes of microfibers. Thrifting is the answer. Thrifting, a wholly new topic and identity in India, has risen to a new level compared to the rest of the world. There are physical stores in various countries, such as the United States, where you must physically travel to purchase things. However, 90 percent of the thrifting industry thrives on Instagram and other platforms in India. Gen Z is the most environmentally conscious and ecologically aware age. It appears to be the backbone of the thrifty sector, and the thrifting culture is quickly increasing in India. Why EcoDhaga? Ecodhaga is a digital thrift store for consumers looking for stylish, inexpensive, and ecological clothing. Nothing escapes our notice, and each item of apparel is subjected to stringent quality inspections before being listed for sale. Marks & Spencers, Sisley, Forever 21, Uniqlo, H&M, River Island, and others are among the names we carry and some great custom-tailored outfits. Look through our vintage items to find what you're looking for! We want to make it easier for ethical customers in India to participate in closed-loop fashion by extending the lifespan of wearables through thrifting, upcycling, and recycling.

Sustainability may be the buzzword of the decade, but Indian Moms have been sustainability queens way before the movement ever started. Mothers, grandmothers and generations before them have all struggled to reduce waste at home, maximise the utility of items (we know, most moms can also weaponise innocuous home items 😋), and do what is right instead of what is just convenient. All for the sake of the health of the family and the planet. Here are a few underappreciated things that our mothers do, which are now catching on-trend 1. Why throw away future storage boxes?: We’ve all fallen prey to this, when we’ve tried reaching out for a cookie, only to be disappointed to find sui dhaga (threads & needles). Always reuse and upcycle even the packaging materials before trashing them! Thanks mom for the pro tip. Don’t be alarmed if you find dish soap in my chavanprash bottle. 😅😂 2. Old clothes can be so much more: With Indian moms, our clothes are like cats they have 9 lives! You will rarely see your mother throwing out an old cloth. Indian moms invented “sustainable fashion” before it was cool! From upcycling old curtains to making a pillow cover from their old saree, they’ve done it all. Some of our favourite dresses have been made from moms old sarees! 3. It’s never a leftover: Indian moms simply do not believe that food can be thrown. Not a grain remains and if it does, she would still whip up something amazing with it for breakfast the next day, or find a way to give it to someone in need. Remember Ross’ leftover thanksgiving sandwich? nom nom nom! Tell us your favourite leftover recipe in the comments! 4. Mothers and “Dabba” - an eternal love story: We know how much our moms love their boxes. They have a dedicated drawer in the kitchen to collect all the packaging boxes from different restaurants and reuse them whenever they are needed. 5. Hand me downs to the rescue!: If you’ve got siblings or cousins, you surely have worn their old clothes at one point in time. Moms do know how to store the clothes that we don’t fit into anymore and pass them down to our siblings/cousins. Dads baggy T-Shirts with belts anyone? Mothers play a pivotal role in most of our lives, as our first teachers! As kids, we learn social interaction, habits, and mannerisms from our parents. To be fair, kids pick up a lot over the years, and the habits our mothers inculcate, grow with you! To quote someone - everyone eventually turns into their mother! And we contest, that maybe that's not such a bad idea. Give your mothers a chance to speak up and out and learn the logic of doing small things that make a lasting difference from her humble wisdom. ❤️