1. Become AWARE :)

Before reaching out to specific facilities, it's important to understand the principles of Fair Trade and circular production. Fair Trade prioritizes fair wages, safe working conditions, and sustainable livelihoods, while circular production emphasizes waste reduction, resource reuse, and extending product lifespans. Together, they represent a more ethical and environmentally friendly approach to fashion.

2. Contacts and Resources

Below are some organizations and contacts that can provide insights and possibly direct connections to Fair Trade and circular production facilities.

Fair Trade and Circular Production Organizations

Fair Trade Association of Australia and New Zealand (FTAANZ)
Email: info@fta.org.au
Website: fta.org.au
Description: FTAANZ is dedicated to promoting Fair Trade and can help connect you with Fair Trade-endorsed designers in Australia. Become an individual member and ask to be connected to a mentor. I had a FTA endorsed mentor right from the start (over 13 yrs ago). 

World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO)
Email: info@wfto.com
Website: wfto.com
Description: WFTO has a vast network of Fair Trade producers worldwide. They are an excellent resource for sourcing Fair Trade-certified facilities.

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)
Email: info@global-standard.org
Website: global-standard.org
Description: GOTS certifies organic textiles and often collaborates with circular production facilities. Their directory includes certified factories and producers.

Fashion Revolution
Email:  press@fashionrevolution.org 
Website: fashionrevolution.org
Description: Fashion Revolution advocates for transparency and sustainability in fashion, including circular production practices. They have resources to help you find ethical suppliers. And materials to be actively involved in the advocacy for a Fashion revolution. 

Circular Production and Sustainable Textile Resources

Textile Recyclers Australia
Email: info@textilerecyclers.com.au
Website: texrecaus.com
Description: This is an excellent resource for understanding and accessing circular production options within Australia. It offers insight into local circular economy practices by showing how discarded textiles are recycled and kept in use. It’s a valuable resource for students interested in sustainable design, connecting them with real examples of textile reuse, recycling methods, and potential local partnerships in circular fashion.

Educational Resources and Networks

Clean Clothes Campaign
Email: info@cleanclothes.org
Website: cleanclothes.org
Description: Provides educational resources on ethical production and labour rights, with a network of responsible factories globally.

Remake Our World
Email: info@remake.world
Website: remake.world
Description: Remake is dedicated to sustainable fashion education and advocacy. They provide resources on circular production and Fair Trade.

3. Suggested Steps for Contacting Facilities

• Step 1: Research each organization and its focus to see if it aligns with your fashion design goals.
• Step 2: Prepare an introductory email explaining your project, your interest in Fair Trade and circular production, and specific questions about their network.
• Step 3: Reach out to multiple contacts to get a variety of insights and options.
• Step 4: Follow up if you don’t receive responses within a week or two.

4. Additional Tips

• Be Specific: Mention that you’re a student working on a Fair Trade and circular fashion project; people are often willing to help students.
• Stay Organized: Keep track of responses and recommended contacts in a document to reference later.

Good luck on your journey toward ethical and sustainable fashion design!

Best,

Yvie xo