There are few accessories as reliable as a trusted Backpack. Used for everything from going on far flung adventures to the commute into work, it is no wonder that these handy bags are so popular. So, to make finding the perfect backpack a little easier, we are taking a look at the brands making eco-friendly backpacks that UK conscious consumers can love.
While backpacks have been around for a long time and were historically made from materials such as canvas or leather, in the conventional modern backpack nylon reigns supreme.
While nylon may have its functional advantages, virgin nylon does no favours for the environment. Nylon contributes to everything from pollution during production, to microplastics littering the sea. See our expose on nylon for more information.
A different approach
Brands making sustainable backpacks take a different approach. They make conscious choices when it comes to choosing textiles and raw materials. This means incorporating Recycled and environmentally friendly materials, demonstrating an overall more conscious approach to production. Some materials to look out for in ethical backpacks include:
- Organic cotton certified by the Global Organic Textile Standard
- Recycled polyester
- Other recycled materials
- Innovative new products such as fabrics made from cactus or plastic bottles
As well as materials, sustainable brands consider factors including carbon emissions, overproduction and recycling practices.
Sustainable and ethical brands also factor in aspects such as working rights and fair conditions across the supply chain. This means certification such as Fair Trade, independent audits, and policies like living wages and anti-discrimination policies.
In addition, animals shouldn’t have to suffer for ethical products. To find an ethical backpack look out for vegan certifications and other animal welfare accreditations.
Eco-friendly backpacks and rucksacks for UK consumers
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So now for our roundup of the best sustainable backpacks that don’t cost the earth!
1. Wave
Based: UK Ships to: Worldwide
Price: £35
Sustainability creds: 1% for the Planet member, supports marine conservation charity, use of recycled packaging, carbon neutral shipping, GRS verified, use of recycled materials
The maker of trendy, sustainable phone cases, Wave has expanded to create its roll-top backpack. Made from recycled plastic, the eco-friendly backpack from this UK brand is waterproof, durable, and made for everyday adventures.
As well as using sustainable materials, Wave supports a range of sustainable initiatives. Its involvement in 1% for the Planet and its support of Surfers Against Sewage demonstrates an ongoing commitment to environmental protection.
2. Tropicfeel
Based: Spain Ships to: Worldwide
Made in: Europe & Asia
Price: £49
Sustainability creds: Use of recycled materials, works with certified suppliers, use of organic materials
Designed to be that extra bag when you need it, the Cruiser backpack from Tropicfeel works as a fully functional backpack, yet can cleverly fold up into a handy little pouch when not in use. The style is versatile and weatherproof, great for day trips and made for life on the go.
While the label does still use some virgin polyesters, it is great to see it incorporate some recycled fibres in its range as well. It would be great to also see it expand its sustainability initiatives into more stages beyond product manufacturing.
3. Eastpak
Based: Belgium Ships to: Worldwide
Price: £55
Sustainability creds: Use of some sustainable and recycled materials, sustainable head office, repair service, vegan products
Made from soft, ribbed fabric in a rosy hue, the Softrib Oldrose backpack from Eastpak has an almost vintage inspired feel. This cute backpack comes complete with a water bottle pocket, zippered front pocket, laptop sleeve, and padded adjustable shoulder straps. It is also 100% vegan.
The brand could do more to improve its overall sustainable activities. However it has started to incorporate sustainable materials in its products, and its 30-year repair warranty policy shows a proactive approach to reducing post-consumer textile waste.
4. Fable England
Based: UK Ships to: Worldwide
Price: £60
Sustainability creds: Partnered with Make it Wild, use of some recycled materials
Fable England’s Oatmeal Meadow Backpack is sweet and elegant. The bag’s nature-inspired print features charming florals and the style is the perfect size to fit all the everyday essentials. Like all Fable products, the backpack’s design has a timeless element.
It would be great to see fewer nylon fabrics in Fable’s range and more environmental policies. However, it is encouraging that the label offsets emissions through tree planting programs.
5. Millican
Based: UK Ships to: Europe & the USA
Price: £70
Sustainability creds: Use of recycled materials
In a bright, sunset-inspired hue, the Core Zip Pack from Millican is an eco-friendly UK backpack made to brighten any day. The sustainable rucksack is made from recycled polyester, and is versatile enough to be a great accessory for a day hiking, travelling or exploring the city.
Millican uses recycled and repurposed materials in its bags and creates durable designs that are made to last. More concrete policies and data regarding sustainable activities on the website would be great to see.
6. Lefrik
Based: Spain Ships to: Worldwide
Made in: Asia
Price: £73
Sustainability creds: Recycled materials, audited factories, vegan
Incorporating minimalistic designs and clever practical elements, Lefrik has made a travel essential that is sleek, on-trend and built to last. The brand has a range of styles, including the trendy Roll backpack, that incorporates a stylish muted colour palette.
Turning waste into a wearable product, Lefrik crafts bags from from recycled plastic bottles. The brand creates styles versatile enough to be used for heading to the office, travelling or going to school, and has been approved as vegan by PETA.
7. Timberland
Based: USA Ships to: Worldwide
Price: £80
Sustainability creds: Use of some recycled materials, use of some sustainable materials, recycled packaging
The Bold Beginnings backpack by iconic brand Timberland is designed for adventures. Available in black or tan, the backpack features multiple compartments and incorporates recycled polyester elements.
Timberland has begun to include some recycled materials in its ranges. It offers tips and tricks on how consumers can improve their impact. We’d love to see it do more in the sustainability space, such as sharing more information on its supply chain practices.
8. The North Face
Based: USA Sh
This post first appeared on Good Maker Tales: Sustainable & Ethical Fashion, please read the originial post: here
