Developing better solutions around sustainability and creating smarter purchasing decisions are key to both saving money and reducing environmental impact. With growing awareness about the environmental cost of disposable fashion, buying durable and sustainable workwear is no longer just a trend—it’s becoming essential.
Swedish workwear brand Fristads, available in the UK, has been leading the way in sustainability. David Snelling, Managing Director for UK & Ireland, offers his expert advice on how both companies and consumers can make smarter, more sustainable choices when it comes to purchasing workwear.
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Invest in Quality Over Quantity
We’ve all heard of the phrase buy cheap, buy twice. But apart from the obvious where a lower quality product inevitably needs replacing sooner, there are other (and some would argue more important) reasons to think about higher quality work clothing. Both comfort & functionality are directly linked to greater productivity. And also sustainability – because the most sustainable garment is the one that lasts! By prioritising durable, comfortable, sustainable workwear, businesses can reduce the need for frequent replacements, saving money and reducing their environmental footprint in the process.
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Prioritise Versatile and Multi-Functional Pieces
Opting for versatile and multi-functional workwear is another smart way to save money and reduce waste. Garments that can be adapted to various work environments or weather conditions provide greater value and longevity. This approach reduces the number of items needed, which both lowers costs and decreases environmental impact.
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Look for Sustainable Materials and Certifications
When purchasing workwear, it’s important to choose items made from sustainable materials. Look for clothing that comes with certifications or environmental product declarations, which indicate the use of eco-friendly fabrics and transparent production processes. These certifications make it easier to choose products with a lower environmental footprint.
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Take Advantage of Repair Services
Rather than discarding worn-out workwear, businesses can extend the life of their garments by choosing brands that offer repair services. Repairing instead of replacing items helps minimise waste, reduces the need for new resources, and supports a more sustainable lifecycle for the clothing.
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Shop Smart During Sales
Seasonal sales events can be a great opportunity to buy high-quality workwear at a reduced price, but it’s important to shop strategically. Focus on purchasing durable, long-lasting pieces during these times. This ensures your investment pays off in the long term, rather than purchasing items that may quickly contribute to waste.
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Choose Products with Full Environmental Impact Transparency
More and more companies are providing detailed Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) that outline the environmental impact of their products. These documents help consumers and businesses make informed purchasing decisions, ensuring that the products they buy are both cost-effective and eco-friendly throughout their lifecycle.
Choosing sustainable workwear isn’t just an environmentally responsible decision—it’s also a smart financial move. High-quality, durable workwear reduces the frequency of replacements, saving money in the long term.
By shifting away from disposable, low-cost clothing and opting for longer-lasting, eco-friendly alternatives, businesses and individuals can contribute to a circular economy while also meeting their budgetary goals.
Joanne is the editor for Workplace Wellbeing Professional and has a keen interest in promoting the safety and wellbeing of the global workforce. After earning a bachelor's degree in English literature and media studies, she taught English in China and Vietnam for two years. Before joining Work Well Pro, Joanne worked as a marketing coordinator for luxury property, where her responsibilities included blog writing, photography, and video creation.
