We live in an era where most of us have become more aware of the reality of climate change and our environmental footprint – thus, consumers are increasingly searching for organically-sourced products, especially when it comes to fashion.
Which is why Thailand has introduced 50 BCG brands that advocate for sustainability in all of their design and production processes. And in case you didn’t already know, the BCG model stands for: Bio economy, Circular economy and Green economy and was introduced by the Thai Government as a plan for national development and post-pandemic recovery.
The BCG model places emphasis on applying science, technology and innovation to turn Thailand’s comparative advantage in biological and cultural diversity – and when Hype went to Thailand to check them out for ourselves, we found BCG’s products very interesting, take a look:
1. MAKA
The foundation of this brand is to provide high-quality, efficient, and eco-friendly products. They reuse waste materials, extending the use of eco-friendly technologies to create striking leather designs. Their leather is sculpted by hand, using leftover scraps to hammer and apply cold bleaching techniques.
The collection you see above is their very own invention: the Yai Bua collection. The concept behind Yai Bua is to create an eco-friendly handmade bag that is easy to use. The body of the bag is made of a net tail. Lightweight and strong, real leather is used to make the handles in aim of prolonging its service. The bag is further decorated with leather ‘crumbs’ that have been cut and moulded into lotus flowers. The bag also includes a small organising purse strap for the ultimate convenience.
2. MR.LEAF
LEAF is a movement promoting the use of natural materials generated from non-deforestation and non-animal killing processes. Through creative thinking and innovations, MR. LEAF promotes the life cycle of leaves, straw and grass waste. They raise environmental awareness through creating new value.
Their concept includes four key elements:
- the story and culture of the materials used
- product innovation
- the original product’s charm
- a design that adds value
To replace the use of animal skins, they use grass leaves, utilising Dipterocarpus Tuberculatus leaf to produce similar materials and is known internationally as “Leaf Leather”. The MR. LEAF collection includes handbags, wallets, and cardholders.
Be sure to visit their website to find out more!
3. ARTWORK
With a goal to reduce negative environmental impacts, their Felt Collection consists of eco-flannel made from 100% recycled plastic bottles. Plastic waste is converted into fibres, which are then extruded into microfiber leather. Microfiber leather is used as a substitute for leather or wool in the production of long-lasting and environmentally friendly bags and decorative items.
Their Felt Collection (can be seen above) handbag is lightweight, strong and durable – coming with a 13-inch notebook computer compartment in three different styles: backpack, cross-body, and carry bag. It’s available in three different colours: sea blue, forest green, and iceberg grey.
Be sure to visit their website to find out more!
4. Marionsiam
Marionsiam offers a selection of batik textiles, designed to suit any occasion anywhere with timeless classy design pieces that can be worn on both sides. By using the most cost-effective fabrics, which are also dyed using natural ingredients such as coconut scabs and temple candles – their creations are truly environmentally friendly.
Their Tien / Peony T. Collection from above is a chic batik bag that can be flipped over and be used on both sides. They process environmentally friendly production by recycling textile waste and use candles from temple leftovers to draw the patterns.
Be sure to visit their website to find out more!
5. GEMIO
Capturing the timeless beauty of Thai fabrics, GEMIO has been passing down the idea of creating footwear from natural materials for many generations. They are committed to searching for new methods to get the most value out of old fabrics and latex. They design and manufacture their own “rubberista” using a sustainable manufacturing process which includes the generation of new ideas, the development of more efficient manufacturing methods and the creation of new products from waste.
Their ECO 2 collection which is featured above contains two products that represent the concept of fashion and function. At GEMIO, they limit waste and produce biodegradable products by combining innovative rubber with rags. They use ECO rubber to create foundations for healthy shoes, tote bags, and clutch bags – the rubber then protects the products from dirt and facilitates cleaning.
Be sure to visit their website to find out more!
6. OUKE
OUKE is an eco-friendly textile brand that marinades and fertilises leaves naturally, instead of burning them – this repurposes materials and waste in an eco-friendly manner. Their products innovatively and creatively represent unique leaf patterns and colours.
Their OUKE Handwoven Eco Print Collection from above dawns printed textiles that highlight the beauty of nature through lead patterns and natural raw material dyes. This collection represents the local culture of the ethnic group in the San Kamphaeng district of Chiang Mai. This collection includes a range of products such as woven fabrics, robes, shawls, and more.
Be sure to visit their website to find out more!
7. CIRCULAR
CIRCULAR utilises waste from textile manufacturers and unused clothing, using the original colour of the material rather than bleaching it. And to reduce the planting of new cotton, they choose eco-friendly innovations such as clean energy, solar energy, renewable raw materials, and resource utility.
They also have a programme where customers can donate unused clothing as a production resource, which can and will be used in making new collections. And as a token of appreciation, their contributors will receive a discount during their next purchase.
Be sure to visit their website to find out more!
8. KHRAMER
KHRAMER aspires to raise the value of traditional indigo dye wisdom when it comes to skincare. Many people are unaware that the indigo root has many medical benefits – which is why KHRAMER upcycles indigo into a beauty and health product. Indigo is beneficial to one’s health and is also useful in the treatment of diseases and the dyeing of fabrics. They’re products are tested and ensured to be safe and suitable for usage. It also ensured that no harm has been done to the locals by preserving local materials – they are in fact very appreciative of their efforts.
Their Indigo Root Extract Collection is a skincare collection created to help relax the body and mind – providing a gentle touch, as if you’re wearing a soft indium cloth. The collection includes the Indigo Root Extract Facial Sunscreen SPF50 and Indigo Root Extract Facial Serum.
Be sure to visit their website to find out more!
9. ADDA
ADDA is a Thai brand that is recognized for its high quality and design in shoes both locally and internationally. They are comfortable to wear, lightweight, strong and durable. All their production and development is done in a ‘green factory’.
Waste and pollution from production is greatly reduced, thanks to their use of ‘clean technology’ which helps to both manage and produce quality and environmentally friendly products.
Be sure to visit their website to find out more!
