Posts tagged with "sustainability"

A GREENER GERMANY

Germany is one of the virtually environmentally friendly nations in the world. Its capacity to maintain carbon neutrality and reduce its footprint in a global economy is unmatched. Hamburg, a port city, is one of the key hubs in the country, but its green thumb rivals are virtually smart cities.

Conny Klotz of Bridge&Tunnel in Hamburg Germany speaks to 360 MAGAZINE.

Bridge&Tunnel is a durable fashion house that creates unisex duds from leftovers. Once the materials are depleted, so is the bespoke capsule. Conny Klotz had an opportunity to catch up with our president, Vaughn, as he embarks on a tunnel tour in this sustainable country. Both engage in an introspective conversation about what it takes to be part of a global movement and how it creates possibilities for the less fortunate.

Listen to Conny Klotz and Vau ghn Lowery discuss how upcycling has an impact in local communities via 360 MAG available wherever you find podca sts.

Nearby is an eclectic 82-piece eco-friendly refuge for eco-junkies looking for a greener getaway, Waelderhaus. This lodge features a 3-star rating, rustic façade with industrial interior finishings. Overall, the accommodations are state-of-the-art, intuitive, and have the right amount of technology to engage the senses that begin at its science center on the ground zero. The whole area is adventure-oriented for those seeking refuge from the bustle, the infested noise as well as the light pollution. You can participate in canoeing, cycling, walking, or climbing. Further, admire ducks diagonally across swim in a man-made pond at an exhibition building. Witness photosynthesis in full bloom as the winter comes to an end, and leaves become pigmented by chlorophyll, making the air easier to breathe.

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Esther Perbandt

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Esther Perbandt on IMDB.

Esther Perbandt has to be one of the most dynamic fashionistas of the modern day. Dressed in all black like the omen, she breathes fire into anyone in her line of sight. In fact, It’s one of the reasons why we all fell in love with her on Making The Cut. Recently, we literally bumped into her during a recent trip to Berlin. She’s an impressionable soul who breathes new life into someone who has been depleted by the daily grind or trauma. She moves like water, taking on the shape of whatever space she fills. “I would never have applied to the show because it’s really commercial,” Esther says of how she got on Making The Cut, “I was known in Berlin for being the arty Esther doing big fashion shows and theater. The word commercial was a no-go for me.” “When I read it (the invitation), I was like no way, not me,” luckily she didn’t answer right away, “but then I said: ‘Esther If you think twice, this is exactly what you need. Finally, the international attention.’ I was working my ass off at the time but it wasn’t really working.” The Queen of Black may not have won her Amazon Prime contest for a million dollars, but she’s certainly gained a million fans across the globe. Her supportive nature, loyalty, and tenacity have led to numerous collaborations, including the first-ever jewelry capsule with Adidas.

She admits that she isn’t as sustainable as she had hoped to be as a designer, but at least she is aware of her shortcomings. She does, however, state that she will drive two hours for locally sourced materials such as zippers made in Germany. “I have the goal to become sustainable or maybe 100% sustainable in ten years,” Esther states, “the vision of my brand in ten years is very digital, so I’m playing a lot with digital fashion…and also using it as a tool to become more sustainable.”

You’d have to be a fool to believe that this unpolished, meticulously engineered black diamond won’t have her moment to shine. Someone who has struggled on her path to success will eventually prosper. “People love to invite me to speak because I’m very honest,” Esther admits, “I talk about how bad it was sometimes that I was sleeping on the floor because I had to rent my apartment to get some money in, or how I had to take out large bank loans that I was almost unable to repay. But this is the life of a designer, and it was a decision. And it was also a decision not to have a family because I knew this job would be 24/7, and I wanted it and still want it.” Her passion for fashion, and meticulous attention to detail, combined with her monochromatic ensembles accented with gold accessories, will keep her on top. It is the reason why we celebrate her. Why we adore her. And how she takes on tasks at the drop of a hat – two collections per year, countless magazine covers, and speaking engagements in addition to Vogue editorials. Esther also held a solo exhibition of her artworks last year. “All of them were inspired by my collection. I used the same techniques and the same materials, but just created some 3D sculptures which you can put on the wall,” She explains. “I can’t focus solely on fashion for 365 days a year; I need some distractions,” Esther confesses. “So this art is part of it, and I’m hoping that this distraction will get me back into fashion, which is exactly what happened.” With so much talent at her disposal, she will stand the test of time, strangling fast fashion with her bare hands, just like her Avant trademarks. Her heart and keen ability to visually tell a story is what will propel her career forward.

Shop Esther Perbandt’s designs HERE

Article: Jess Chen, Vaughn Lowery

Previous Q×A HERE.

Esther Perbandt (Making the Cut) in Berlin via 360 MAGAZINE.

Esther in Interview Magazine.

Cover Photography: Vaughn Lowery

Ciele Athletics – B Corp

Jeremy and Mike have struck green! With sustainable and eco-friendly athleisure products built to last, their new drop not only saves lives with ultra-light outerwear but also the planet.
Vaughn Lowery | 360 MAGAZINE

Ciele Athletics, the high-end performance running brand from Montreal, Quebec, is proud to officially announce its Benefit Corporation (B Corp) certification, a label awarded exclusively to companies that voluntarily meet the highest standards for social and environmental performance. Since embarking on its application journey years ago, Ciele Athletics has finally achieved esteemed B Corp status and joins more than 6,000 Certified B Corporations spanning more than 80 countries and 150 industries in a global effort to build a more inclusive and sustainable economy.

“Jeremy Bresnen and I set the core values of the company and brand at its inception, and a few years after launching we saw how well they lined up with the standards that B Corp evaluates. We are honored to finally join the network of Certified B Corp organizations. It’s truly fulfilling for us,” says Mike Giles, co-founder and vice president at Ciele Athletics. “It’s been a long journey to get here, but we understand that we still have a long way to go. We want to do everything we can to continue our sustainability and social impact, and B Corp recognition is another way to validate our efforts and the decisions we continue to make.”

The B Corp certification was the clear next step and is a formal acknowledgement of the culmination of Ciele Athletics’ notable efforts since the brand’s inception in 2014. Some of those commitments include:

Integrating environmentally certified products and packaging: FSC-certified boxes, REPREVE®, Fair Trade and Global Recycled Standard (GRS)
Using REPREVE recycled performance yarn made from plastic bottles in nearly 100% of its headwear collections, from caps to buckets hats
Producing headwear collections and the NSB (Not So Basic) Collection (T-shirts and tank tops) with a majority of GRS-certified recycled yarns (recycled polyester, recycled nylon, recycled cotton)
Reducing the amount of plastics used year after year, moving toward a fully recycled lineup
Working with certified factories for their good craftsmanship and because they ensure good working conditions
Modifying the supplier screening questionnaire to gather more data about factory certifications, social and environmental impact, and ownership structure
Focusing on employee well-being and satisfaction, with increased benefits such as lunch runs, yoga Wednesdays, allowance for movement (physical and mental monthly allocation) and volunteer days available to all employees. All employees are paid a living wage at minimum.
Ensuring that decision making considers outcomes on all workers, customers, the environment and the community, pushing the boundaries beyond financial motivations

“We want to continue to take the necessary steps to lower our footprint using sustainable and recyclable materials. After transitioning from virgin yarns to recycled in the bulk of our product lineup, the next push the design and production team will focus on will be the drive toward technical natural fibers and fabric mixes and the reduction, if not elimination, of plastic in our products and packaging,” says Jeremy Bresnen, co-founder and president.

The B Corp journey prompted Ciele Athletics to measure and track its impact in all areas of the certification’s focus: governance, workers, community, environment and customers. It helped the brand structure its impact management and target where it would like to do better. Moving forward, Ciele Athletics is committed to measuring more of its impact, such as GHG emissions, and to connecting with other B Corps to share experiences and solutions for creating better outcomes for the planet and its people.

Unique in its ability to measure a company’s entire social and environmental impact, B Lab, the nonprofit behind B Corporations, meticulously examines the impact of corporate operations and business models on workers, customers, communities and environment. Certified B Corporations are leaders in the global movement for an inclusive, equitable and regenerative economy.

To learn more about Ciele Athletics, visit cieleathletics.com. You also can connect with Ciele Athletics on Facebook and Instagram.

ABOUT CIELE ATHLETICS

Founded in Montreal, Quebec, in 2014 by Jeremy Bresnen and Mike Giles, Ciele Athletics offers high-performance, durable and lightweight headwear and apparel collections built for performance and protection, designed for runners and adventurers of all kinds. Its apparel and iconic line of caps are sold in over 30 countries, including more than 600 boutiques in North America and 300 international locations.

Lectra × TextileGenesis

Lectra announces the acquisition of the majority of the capital of TextileGenesis

Lectra extends its software offer to material traceability
and reinforces its position in Industry 4.0

Lectra announces the signature of an agreement to acquire 51% of the capital and voting rights of the Dutch company TextileGenesis. As a major player in the fashion, automotive, and furniture markets, Lectra contributes with boldness and passion to the Industry 4.0 revolution by providing software, equipment, data, and services to brands, manufacturers, and retailers.

Founded in 2018, TextileGenesis provides a Software as a Service (SaaS) platform that enables fashion brands and sustainable textile manufacturers to ensure a reliable, secure and fully digital mapping of their textiles, from the fiber to the consumer, and thereby guarantee their authenticity and origins. This solution ensures the traceability of TextileGenesis’ customers’ entire sustainable textile supply chain in order to meet the demands for transparency, driven by changes in legislation in a growing number of countries and by growing consumer awareness, thereby encouraging sustainable development.

Its innovative traceability mechanism, which addresses both ends of the textile value chain, as well as its network of partners for material certification, and its technology platform guarantee the exchange and tracking of reliable and secure data throughout a material’s life cycle.

Several of the world’s most prestigious fashion brands as well as leading sustainable fiber producers are already convinced of the value of TextileGenesis’ innovative offer, which enables the connection of multiple actors of the sustainable fashion ecosystem on this platform.

“Fashion is one of the most fragmented industries due to its long and complex value chain, which makes it opaque to brands, suppliers, subcontractors, and consumers” says Amit Gautam, founder of TextileGenesis. “Today, only 19% of fashion industry actors have visibility of their value chain, and this visibility is often partial. Many brands, especially those that have set ambitious sustainability goals, face a real challenge in terms of supply chain transparency. If they cannot track the life cycle of certified materials, they will not be able to justify the sustainability of their products,” he adds.

“Having the highest ethical standards, guaranteeing the well-being of our employees, and preserving the environment are embedded in Lectra’s DNA and guide our daily decisions. Through our technology, acquisitions, and partnerships, we aim to empower our customers to work in a more socially and environmentally responsible way,” says Daniel Harari, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Lectra. “We look forward to joining forces with TextileGenesis’ talented teams to accelerate the development of their sustainable material traceability solution and deepen our knowledge of the textile value chain in the fashion industry,” he concludes.

At the beginning of January, Lectra will acquire 51% of TextileGenesis for 15.2 million euros. The acquisition of the remaining share capital and voting rights is expected to take place in two stages, in 2026 and 2028, for an amount that will be calculated based on a multiple of the 2025 and 2027 recurring revenues.

About Lectra:

As a major player in the fashion, automotive and furniture markets, Lectra contributes to the Industry 4.0 revolution with boldness and passion by providing best-in-class technologies.

The Group offers industrial intelligence solutions – software, equipment, data and services – that facilitate the digital transformation of the companies it serves. In doing so, Lectra helps its customers push boundaries and unlock their potential. The Group is proud to state that its 2,500 employees are driven by three core values: being open-minded thinkers, trusted partners and passionate innovators.

Founded in 1973, Lectra reported revenues of 388 million euros in 2021 and is listed on Euronext Paris (LSS), Lectra has set a revenue target of between 514 and 534 million euros for 2022.

For more information, visit lectra.com.

Follow Lectra on social media:

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Garnica × UN Global Compact

GARNICA JOINS UNITED NATIONS GLOBAL COMPACT

AS A PART OF THEIR COMMITMENT TO THE WELL-BEING OF THE PLANET

This relationship solidifies the company’s firm dedication to sustainability.

Garnica, a world leader in manufacturing premium sustainable plywood is pleased to announce that they have officially joined the United Nations (UN) Global Compact as a part of their commitment to creating a sustainable future. This corporate sustainability initiative is the world’s largest. It supports companies to conduct business responsibly and take strategic actions to advance broader societal goals with an emphasis on collaboration and innovation.

In September 2015, all 193 Member States of the UN adopted a plan called ‘Agenda 2030‘ for achieving a better future: laying out a path to end extreme poverty, fight inequality and protect our planet by 2030. This plan is based upon 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) which define the ideal world.

“At Garnica, using environmentally friendly raw materials and supporting sustainability measures is of utmost importance. We are completely aligned with the SDGs defined by the UN Global Compact and have therefore officially joined the movement to contribute to making the world a better place for all.“ said Pedro Garnica, Garnica’s president.

Garnica has set a standard, inspiring other businesses to follow their lead in transforming the world, promoting prosperity, and protecting the planet while supporting diversity, equality, and an inclusive culture.

For more information on Garnica’s pledge to these goals, please read: https://www.garnica.one/en-us/blog/garnica-joins-un-global-compact.html

For more information on the United Nations Global Compact, visit:

https://www.unglobalcompact.org/

About Garnica

Established in 1941 as a sawmill in La Rioja, Spain, Garnica is a pioneer in the development of innovative ways to manage and use natural resources responsibly and intelligently. We are a leader in the manufacturing of exceptional plywood solutions, serving the needs of our more than 600 clients in 45 countries. Garnica has grown considerably since its early days, it employs 1,200 people and has seven factories with production standards that revolve around sustainability. Garnica supports sustainable plantations as a source of raw materials for its products and we are always in search of excellence while steadily progressing. Offering a wide range of products, Garnica is the global benchmark for plywood panel production in the industry.
For more information on Garnica, visit their website

OVOLO HOTELS: “Do Good, Feel Good”

OVOLO HOTELS LAUNCHES “DO GOOD, FEEL GOOD” SUSTAINABILITY INITIATIVE

Ovolo Hotels, the award-winning lifestyle hotel collection with properties in Australia, Hong Kong and Bali, has announced the launch of its brand-wide “Do Good, Feel Good” sustainability initiative, including the “Green Perk” pledge to plant a tree, in association with Eden Reforestation Projects, for every direct booking at its hotels.

“Do Good, Feel Good” follows Ovolo’s vegetarian “Plant’d” pledge and features the following key highlights across the two key pillars of “Planet” and “People”:

PLANET

Beginning on November 1, 2022, Ovolo will partner with Eden Reforestation Projects to plant one tree in Nepal for every direct booking at any Ovolo property, as part of its “Green Perk” program.
Working with EarthCheck to ensure all actions are science-backed, strategic and sustainable.
The Plant’d Pledge which promotes vegetarian and plant-based cuisine across Ovolo Hotels restaurants and bars.
A commitment to reduce food waste by 50% by 2030.
Designing new hotels responsibly to include sustainable materials and fittings and achieve Green Certification for all Ovolo-owned new-build hotels.
Eliminating single-use plastics by 2023.
Measuring and managing carbon emissions, water, waste and energy consumption.
Sourcing locally and organically wherever possible.

PEOPLE

Protecting the mental and physical well-being of employees and increasing development and learning opportunities for all.
Providing education, nutrition and healthcare for disadvantaged children in Indonesia and Hong Kong:
Ovolo has partnered with Bali Children’s Foundation, which help thousands of children complete school, find employment, and improve their lives and the life of their community. Ovolo has sponsored a school in Bali with classroom upgrades, class delivery for a year and a stationery kit for each student in the elementary school of SDN 3 Sidetapa in North Bali. www.balichildrenfoundation.org
Ensuring a 50/50 breakdown of women and men in management positions by 2025.
Doubling fundraising efforts by 2025.
Promoting local art, culture and history to support local communities.

“Our commitments go beyond environmental indicators and include issues such as celebrating diversity and inclusion, supporting children and schools, sourcing locally and building hotels that give back to their communities in a meaningful way,” said Dave Baswal, Ovolo Group Chief Executive Officer. “We want to make better choices for ourselves and the planet and play our part in ensuring a better future for all.”

Whenever guests book directly with Ovolo, they will receive a message after their stay with details of where their tree has been planted and the corresponding impact on the environment. In the spirit of transparency to its guests, staff and investors, and in a continual effort to improve its sustainability credentials, Ovolo has also committed to producing an annual sustainability report, verified by a third-party auditor.

“Transparency and alignment with initiatives and sustainability development goals is key for us; we don’t just want to talk the talk, but we want to be held accountable to walk the walk too,” Dave Baswal concluded.

For more information, visit www.ovologroup.com/do-good-feel-good

ABOUT OVOLO:

The Ovolo Group was founded by entrepreneur Girish Jhunjhnuwala and first entered the real estate market in 2002; then further expanded into the hotel industry in 2010. Ovolo Hotels quickly became one of Hong Kong and Australia’s most dynamic independent owner operated hospitality firms by providing guests with the best in effortless living across hotels and food and beverage outlets.

The Ovolo Group is a collection of contemporary hotels that keep you connected to the little luxuries you love, all effortlessly included. The company prides itself on being in touch with the modern traveler through award-winning interior designs, detail-driven comforts, complimentary value-added services like the mini bar and breakfast, with cutting-edge technology. Ovolo Hotels have been acknowledged for Hotel and Accommodation Excellence, receiving the accolade “Hotel Brand of the Year”, at the 2019 and 2020 HM Awards.

A proud Hong Kong brand, Ovolo Group remains a family-owned and privately-operated business operating four hotels and three restaurants in Hong Kong, and eight hotels and seven restaurants across Australia in Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Brisbane.

Ovolo also has the By Ovolo Collective within its portfolio of hotels, a distinctive collection of four hotels each one unique, each one special, the more guests explore, the more they’ll find. These include Nishi Apartments in Canberra Australia, The Sheung Wan by Ovolo and The Aberdeen Harbour in Hong Kong, and Mamaka Kuta Beach in Bali Indonesia.

As of March 2021, Dash Living collaborated with Ovolo Hotels to launch two new generation of serviced rental solutions in Hong Kong. A total of 135 rooms and suites that form part of a new generation of serviced rental solutions for hyper-mobile millennials will be available for booking. The Aberdeen by Dash Living, soon-to-be converted from Mojo Nomad By Ovolo, offers 79 rooms ranging from studios to executive suites. The 56-room The Sheung Wan By Ovolo, only remaining under Ovolo’s management for stays under 7 days, will offer units from studio, one bedroom, to family room options.

Ovolo acknowledges the Traditional Owners of the lands on which we are located. We recognize their continuing connection to land, waters and culture, and pay our respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

ARAB FASHION WEEK SS23

HIGHLIGHTS OF THE SIXTH DAY OF ARAB FASHION WEEK WOMEN’S READY-TO-WEAR SPRING SUMMER 2023

The last day of Arab Fashion Week Women’s kicks off with messages of Peace and Unity.
Sustainability and ethical fashion continue to take center stage on the catwalk of Dubai Design District.
Arab Fashion Week closes with record numbers and a palpable boost to the local economy.

Emergency Room
“We need humanity, more than cleverness… life will be violent, and all will be lost” read the screen at Emergency Room’s “Borderline” show. With a name that stems from the belief that the world needs to drastically change its wasteful ways, the Beirut-based sustainable, and ethically focused brand portrayed a united world where flags are obsolete. On the runway, a series of white pieces, hand printed with various visa stamps represented the different countries designer Eric Mathieu Ritter and his team have visited. Elsewhere, the collection focused on pairing up-cycled denim with white cotton and mish-mashing sports jerseys, knitted sports scarves, and polyester flags, to usher in the upcoming World Cup.

Emergency Room by Eric Mathieu Ritter via 360 MAGAZINE

Zardouz
Iranian designer Mohammad Amin Pour Eskandarian’s everyday couture boutique in downtown Tehran visually conveys the everyday impact the Middle East’s crisis has on everyday life. Here at Arab Fashion Week, a series of genderless designs were indicative of a world in transition. Velvety, floor-sweeping dresses fashioned with hoods and fanciful layers were crafted to facilitate a wide range of movement and activities. On an emotional note, the brand said that its embroidered sewing technique infuses each item with a tree-trunk feel, inspiring viewers here to contemplate the world beyond the fashion industry.

Zardouz by Mohammad Amin Pour Eskandarian via 360 MAGAZINE

Born in Exile
Since leaving Libya in 2014 upon the outbreak of civil war, Libyan designer Ibrahim Sheban has used his designs to remind the world of the undiscovered beauty of Libya, his eternal muse. “His latest “Never Love Me Again” collection is composed of irreverent designs, leather jackets, trench coats and an updated kandora demonstrating how society is rapidly evolving. A mosaic tile print emblazoned onto a mini skirt and jacket ensemble, a fanciful sun dress, and a tracksuit conjured the architectural treasures of Libya.

Born In Exile by Ibrahim Sheban via 360 MAGAZINE

Louzan
Silk abaya-inspired ensembles awash in a palette of Arabian sunset-to-sunrise colors sashayed down the runway to the tune of a heritage soundtrack. After six days of international shows and new perspectives, it was a refreshing reminder of the region’s origins and the creative mystique that emanates from the Arabian Peninsula. This time, the simplicity of the abaya came to the fore, consciously enhanced with sartorial elements like trench collars, fringe details and innovative textiles and prints like polka dot and architectural tile motifs.

Slimi Studio
Unapologetically fierce, Slimi Studio churned out a collection of spandex designs bright enough to light up the night sky. Laser-cut bodysuits, miniskirts and leotards were paired with oversized puffer jackets. Amped up with gathered sleeves and asymmetrical cuts, the collection embraced couture heritage with eye-catching feather detail and romantic drapery.

Death by Dolls
London-born, LA-educated Sara Al-Saud’s Death by Dolls runway injected the last day of shows with a Hollywood club vibe. The brand that has dressed megastars like Britney Spears and Beyonce returned to Arab Fashion Week with rule-breaking designs like barely-there bandeau tops and lingerie-inspired ensembles. A child of the punk 80s, Al-Saud continues to stand by her vibrant, bright colors, anything shiny and sparkly, intense textures, even among her more modest looks involving denim jackets and her hijabs.

Death by Dolls by Sara Al-Saud via 360 MAGAZINE

The Giving Movement
An urban palette of grey, black, and white set the tone for the last show on the Arab Fashion Week roster. The Giving Moment, the Dubai- LA- KSA brand pioneering ethically made, sustainable athleisure and streetwear, unleashed a collection mirroring the faces and figures walking the Dubai streets today. Hijabs, silky pajamas, utilitarian track pants, tees crisscrossed with hiking straps, and models clad in workout gear closed the curtain on one of the most dynamic fashion weeks.

The Giving Movement by Dubai- LA- KSA via 360 MAGAZINE

CALENDAR | WEBSITE | INSTAGRAM

NÜR SAN FRANCISCO

“The light between the heavens and the earth.”

After witnessing product discoloration and encountering rashes caused by allergies, Afghan-American Nilo established NÜR.

Thanks to the PVD, NÜR has been able to produce without many issues. At an affordable price point, this ethical, sustainable fine jewelry can stand the test of time. Hypoallergenic yet rustproof ornaments pair well with lesser eco-friendly options to create a stylish look.

After putting a necklace to its limits: long baths, extended steam room sessions coupled with prolonged wearing, the 18k plating did not permit oxidation. In addition, even as a wild sleeper, the global construction prevented kinks.

Upon delivery, if an item does not properly fit or was damaged while being shipped, the customer has a two-week replacement window. Moreover, all products are free of metal allergens (nickel, copper and zinc) and are plated onto a surgical grade of stainless steel. Lastly, the polishing adds a protective layer, intensifying its durability; and thus, increasing its longevity.

Visit NÜR site HERE.

Article × Photo: Vaughn Lowery

Now United × OP3N

Simon Fuller (American Idol, Spice Girls, So You Think You Can Dance) has partnered with OP3N and the Culture Catalyst – a recently announced $100 million commitment to fostering arts and entertainment projects on the Avalanche blockchain – to develop and produce an innovative musical film with the world’s first global pop group Now United.

The Musical is a live-action musical film featuring members of Now United and original songs. It will be available to the NFT pass holders on the recently launched OP3N app. The mission of the project is to inspire schools everywhere to create their own versions of performances from the musical and compete for honors within the OP3N platform through community voting.

Simon Fuller comments: “This project allows me to redefine how an audience can engage with content. Not only can it be enjoyed simply as entertainment, but you can actually participate, initially through learning and then by creating your own version of the musical with your friends or school. It is a celebration of the art of musical theater and the passion for self expression and new technology that allows people to get involved in ways never before imagined.”

Using the native video and music player on the OP3N app, NFT pass holders will also be able to stream the The Musical and access a broad range of related content including rehearsals, choreography lessons and interviews with the cast. The Op3n app will also facilitate submissions and voting on a competition based on the Musical, as well as the purchase of NFTs.

OP3N, a launchpad for IP and communities in Web3, recently partnered with the Avalanche Foundation to launch and co-finance Culture Catalyst – a $100 million initiative to redefine the entertainment business model. Culture Catalyst will fund and support the development of arts, entertainment and culture projects on the Avalanche public blockchain.

“Web3 is powering a new paradigm in music and entertainment, but many artists have been reluctant to dive in for lack of an environmentally responsible solution that can consistently deliver a good user experience. In Avalanche, we’ve found the best possible answer and we couldn’t be more excited to bring these capabilities to bear to help Simon Fuller and Now United realize their vision for interactive entertainment’, said OP3N studios co-founders, Jaeson Ma and Eric Tu.

From creator-inspired tokens to NFTs, decentralized tech is redefining the way arts and entertainment is created, financed and consumed. The OP3N – Avalanche initiative is designed to inspire a diverse range of blockchain-based creator communities’ projects and provide funding for emerging artists, entertainers, filmmakers and musicians who are looking to expand beyond traditional channels and expand paradigms for ownership.

“We believe that success in collaboration begins with choosing the right partners and we’re delighted to be supporting this ground-breaking project”, said John Nahas, VP of Business Development for Ava Labs.

“In OP3N and Simon Fuller, we have found visionaries who not only share our concern for the environment, but who also recognize the magic in direct connections between fans and creators”, added Ava Labs’ Chief Marketing Officer, Devon Ferreira.

“I’m super excited to be working with Simon and Now United to bring something truly innovative into the NFT space. We will be utilizing Avalanche to create new ways of fan engagement and build a sustainable fan base and community for years to come,” said Nelson Diaz, OP3N Chief Marketing Officer and Founder of Long Lost Friends.

Culture Catalyst recently announced projects with Grimes for an Intergalactic Children’s Metaverse Book that will be released later this year. Additionally, singer-songwriter Ava Max announced her partnership with Culture Catalyst for the launch of her next music video in collaboration with iconic director Joseph Kanh. Culture Catalyst comes after OP3N’s $10 million seed funding round that brought together heavyweights from the worlds of entertainment, tech and gaming.

About Simon Fuller’s XIX Entertainment:

Simon Fuller is a renowned entertainment industry creator, producer and entrepreneur. He has imagined, developed and executed some of the biggest entertainment properties of all time, engaging audiences across the world and generating $billion revenues in the process. For more than three decades Fuller has positively impacted popular culture worldwide, through properties and businesses that have disrupted convention, defined the times and empowered iconic artists to achieve their creative and commercial ambitions. He was the inspiration behind the Spice Girls, the creator of the Pop Idol global TV franchise, the partner of David and Victoria Beckham and the guidance behind the careers of sporting legends Andy Murray and Lewis Hamilton, extraordinary singers Annie Lennox and Amy Winehouse and award winning projects with entertainment icons Jennifer Lopez and Michael Caine. Today his company, XIX Entertainment, is an ever evolving force of creativity and innovation, in music, television, film and fashion.

About OP3N:

Founded in 2021 as a subsidiary of EST Media Holdings, OP3N imagines a world where Communities can come together to create, own, and bring their ideas to the world. OP3N’s mission is to be a Launchpad for Ideas and Communities to create meaningful experiences together. By consolidating the tools needed to mint, share and engage with NFTs and digital tokens into one vertical stack, OP3N leverages its cross-industry expertise from the entertainment, gaming and tech ecosystems, to lay the foundations for a new era of community-driven, inclusive entertainment while bringing everyone together on a journey into Web3. OP3N is co-led by media executive, artist, and serial entrepreneur Jaeson Ma, who has a successful track record launching companies including EST Studios, Stampede Ventures, East West Ventures, and 88rising, and who’s raised capital and advised on transactions totaling over $1 billion; and Eric Tu, an award-winning development executive who’s worked with major brands including Nike, Beats by Dre and Google, and as an Executive Producer with Bjork, Radiohead, Kendrick Lamar and more. The company is headquartered in Los Angeles. For more information, please visit HERE.

How to Build a Stylish, Eco-Conscious Wardrobe on a Budget

Introduction

Staying on top of the latest trends is great, but you may have realized just how much waste buying these ‘trendy’ items has created. Fashion comes and goes but the materials and energy used to create these products are often significantly higher than what you realize.

Creating a stylish and eco-conscious wardrobe on a budget is something many people are turning to. Not only is this great for your wallet, but it helps the Earth as well. Take a look at these tips to help you get started!

Educate Yourself

The idea of building an eco-conscious and sustainable wardrobe on a budget might sound appealing, but what does it mean? This isn’t a goal that can be attained overnight, so understanding your “why” and doing research can be extremely beneficial to helping you stay focused on your goals when it seems so far away.

“Learning what your goals are to create a sustainable wardrobe is every bit as important as owning one,” says Lori Price, Founder of PixieLane. “There are many different types of eco-conscious wardrobes and people take their sustainable wardrobes to different levels. Understanding your own goal by researching the industry can help you be successful in the long run.”

Inventory Your Current Wardrobe

Before you set out to create a new wardrobe, make sure you understand what’s in your closet right now. You might be surprised what you already have to work with. This will also come in handy for some of the later tips in this article.

“One of the most eco-conscious and budget-friendly ways you can improve your wardrobe is to build off of what you already own,” says Omid Semino, CEO and Founder of Diamond Mansion. “Look at what you have and create a list or a photo album of clothing that you could incorporate into new outfits. Neutral colors and basic designs are fantastic because they’re easy to modify by adding other elements into the outfit.”

Find Local Options

Shipping and handling add expense and waste to the purchasing process, so finding a local option is both eco-conscious and helps you stay on a budget. Look for local eco-friendly boutiques or secondhand stores where you can try things on and make sure you love them before making a purchase.

“Online shopping is convenient, but it’s also home to many fast-fashion retailers who are not eco-conscious,” says Lauren Kleinman, Co-founder The Quality Edit. “Support a local business by shopping from someone in your community who’s looking to make a difference in their economic footprint as well. Consignment shops and eco-friendly small businesses are fantastic ways to purchase items that you’re sure to love for a long time.”

Research Brands

Learning what brands are doing to support the environment while producing their clothing products can lead you to brands that are not only affordable but eco-conscious as well. A great way to create an eco-friendly wardrobe on a budget is by doing research into brands to find where the sweet spot is for you in terms of affordability and environmental responsibility.

“Unfortunately, a lot of people think that eco-conscious purchases mean that the products have to be expensive,” says Cesar Cruz, Co-Founder of Sebastian Cruz Couture. “This leads many to believe that they can’t afford to buy new clothing that is eco-friendly. This is simply not true. There are many brands out there that strive to do their best to maintain a positive carbon footprint while producing affordable products. Sometimes you just have to dig a bit to find them.”

Find Others Looking to Do The Same

Reach out on social media or other platforms to find others in your community who are looking to remodel their wardrobe to include eco-conscious clothing. There are many eco-conscious people out there who are probably interested in doing the same thing and multiple heads are better than one when it comes to finding new resources.

“Not only is a community of like-minded eco-conscious friends a great thing to have, but they can help you build your wardrobe too,” says Karim Hachem, VP of eCommerce at Sunshine 79. “Hosting a clothing swap a couple of times per year can be a great way to change out some things in your wardrobe without purchasing new clothing or creating waste. You can also share resources and shops that you’ve had great experiences with.”

Get Creative

If consignment shops and clothing swaps are letting you down and you’re looking to stick to a low budget, getting a bit creative might be the answer. The trend of upcycling clothing from one thing to another has been around for years and it’s a great way to repurpose some of your clothing that you may not wear anymore.

“Not only is upcycling a great way to create something new from an article of clothing that may otherwise end up in the trash, but you can explore a new hobby too,” says Eric Elggren, Co-Founder of Andar. “Creating new articles of clothing from something you already own is a great way to spruce up your wardrobe in an eco-conscious way. Additionally, if you don’t love what you’ve created, you could always sell your creations to fund your eco-conscious wardrobe budget.”

Conclusion

Creating an eco-conscious wardrobe doesn’t have to be an expensive undertaking. While it may take some time, it is entirely possible to build a stylish, eco-conscious wardrobe on a budget. Educating yourself and learning more about what the clothing industry looks like today is a great start. It’s hard to stay motivated to make a change if you’re not informed of the full scope of the impact you’re making. Researching brands and businesses that support these ideas can help you learn what to look for as you shop and build onto your existing wardrobe.

Look into your community to find businesses, organizations, and other people who are on the same path as you. Shopping local is a great way to support your community on your quest to build an eco-conscious wardrobe. Learning from others who are doing the same is also a great way to expand your knowledge and make friends too. You may also want to explore how you can repurpose some of your current wardrobe items to match your new eco-conscious clothing items.