A.BCH: Crafting a Sustainable Fashion Revolution

A.BCH, founded in 2017 by Courtney Holm, stands at the forefront of a sustainable fashion revolution, challenging industry norms with a commitment to transparency, circular design, and ethical practices. As a circular fashion label, A.BCH addresses the detrimental environmental and ethical impacts associated with the conventional fashion industry.

Sustainable Philosophy

At the heart of A.BCH's ethos is a dedication to transparency and full disclosure. The brand acknowledges the complexities within the fashion industry and takes a unique approach to sustainability, understanding that true sustainability is a continuous journey.

Circular Design Methodology

A.BCH's commitment to sustainability is embodied in its Circular Design approach, influenced by the principles of Cradle2Cradle and The Ellen MacArthur Foundation. The brand has been refining its methodology since 2016, ensuring that each product aligns with three key circular economy principles: designing out waste, keeping materials and products in use, and regenerating natural systems.

Design with Purpose

From inception, A.BCH designs clothes that either safely biodegrade or can be recycled at the end of their life. Every raw material, including buttons, labels, threads, and interlining, adheres to a circular projected lifecycle. The brand embraces clean shapes, thoughtful minimalism, and timeless design functionality, promoting pieces that are wearable for an extended period.

Ethical Sourcing and Manufacturing

A.BCH takes pride in sourcing materials locally whenever possible, preferring suppliers with carbon-neutral factories and ethical certifications such as GOTS, Fair Trade, or Fair Wear Foundation. The garments are manufactured in Melbourne, Australia, within a carbon-neutral factory accredited byEthical Clothing Australia (ECA).

Commitment to Living Wages

A.BCH goes beyond compliance with industry standards, paying wages above the Australian Textile, Clothing, Footwear and Associated Industries Award to align with the Australian Living Wage. The brand's dedication to ethical practices extends through its Code of Conduct, emphasizing SDGs 16.3 and 16.5, promoting the rule of law, equal access to justice, and reducing corruption.

Certifications and Transparent Practices

A.BCH's use of materials is guided by certifications such as GOTS ECA, and Cradle to Cradle Certified, ensuring adherence to strict environmental, social, and regeneration criteria. The brand proudly holds a 'Great' rating on the Good On You app, reflecting its commitment to ethical practices.

End of Garment Life

The brand takes responsibility for the entire lifecycle of its products, implementing a Recycling Program that involves taking back A.BCH garments for mending, re-making, or recycling. In 2022, A.BCH plans to release garments made from recycled fabrics, showcasing its dedication to closed-loop systems.

Biodegradable and Compostable

A.BCH garments are strategically crafted to be bio-degradable, with undyed pieces being fully compostable. This underscores the brand's commitment to biological circularity, allowing its clothes to return safely to nature.

Environmental Stewardship

A.BCH actively addresses its carbon footprint, offsetting all carbon emissions generated at its factory and HQ with UN Certified Emission Reduction certificates. The brand utilizes 100% wind-power energy and offsets the carbon emissions of all deliveries, prioritizing CO2-neutral mills for fabric production.

Material Selection Challenges

While recognizing that no fiber is perfect, A.BCH approaches material selection with a threefold perspective: birth, life, and afterlife. The brand embraces **GOTS-certified **organic cotton, Tencel, and other materials, carefully avoiding those with significant environmental drawbacks.

Water Conservation

Acknowledging the textile industry's significant water usage, A.BCH prioritizes water-saving practices, collaborates with eco-conscious mills, and ensures its suppliers adhere to strict environmental policies on water resource management.

Visit and Connect

A.BCH invites engagement and connection, encouraging individuals to explore its sustainable journey through appointments at its Circular Factory in West Melbourne. Join the sustainable fashion conversation on various social media platforms or delve deeper into the brand's philosophy through the A.BCH World blog.

In a world where fashion often conceals its environmental and ethical impacts, A.BCH stands as a beacon of change, offering intelligently crafted garments that embody circular design, ethical sourcing, and a commitment to a sustainable future. With A.BCH, every purchase is a step towards a more conscious and responsible fashion industry. Circular Design. Made Ethically. For Life.