Sustainability has become a buzzword in the fashion industry, with many brands jumping on the bandwagon to showcase their eco-friendly practices. Prada, one of the world’s most iconic luxury fashion houses, has also made significant strides towards sustainability.
But when did Prada become sustainable? Let’s take a closer look.
The Early Days of Prada
Founded in 1913 by Mario Prada, the Italian brand initially started as a leather goods store in Milan. It wasn’t until the 1970s that Prada expanded into ready-to-wear collections for men and women. Over the years, the brand has become synonymous with luxury, innovation, and avant-garde design.
The Shift Towards Sustainability
In recent years, Prada has made a conscious effort to prioritize sustainability. In 2019, the brand announced its commitment to using only recycled nylon by 2021. This move was part of Prada’s broader strategy to reduce its environmental impact and carbon footprint.
Prada’s sustainable nylon is called ECONYL®, which is made from regenerated ocean plastics and textile waste. By using recycled materials instead of virgin materials, Prada is able to reduce its water usage and CO2 emissions while also preventing plastic waste from entering our oceans.
Other Sustainable Initiatives
Apart from its use of sustainable nylon, Prada has also implemented other eco-friendly initiatives. In 2018, the brand launched its “Re-Nylon” project which involved recycling six iconic bag styles using ECONYL® nylon. The bags were also packaged in biodegradable bags made from cornstarch.
In addition to this, Prada has committed to sourcing all of its electricity from renewable sources by 2020 and reducing its greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2025.
The Future of Sustainability at Prada
Prada’s commitment to sustainability is an ongoing process, and the brand has stated that it will continue to explore new ways to reduce its environmental impact. In 2020, Prada released its first collection made from organic cotton, which was a significant step towards using more sustainable materials.
Prada has also partnered with UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission to support research on ocean sustainability and has launched a program called “Prada Re-Nylon Ambassadors,” which aims to promote sustainable practices among young people.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Prada’s journey towards sustainability has been a gradual but significant one. From using recycled nylon to launching eco-friendly initiatives and collections, the brand has shown its commitment to reducing its environmental impact and promoting sustainable practices. While there is still much work to be done in the fashion industry as a whole, Prada’s efforts are certainly a step in the right direction.