Northbound Gear – Canadian Eco-Conscious Company
Since 2019, brothers Sunny and Nav, founders of Northbound Gear, have aimed to create durable outdoor apparel while building one of the world’s most sustainable outdoor brands. Rather than relying on eco-friendly marketing alone, the company emphasizes sustainability and responsible manufacturing. Although they recognize that no clothing brand is fully sustainable, they take active steps to reduce their environmental impact.
Northbound Gear’s Key Eco-Friendly and Responsible Practices
- Sustainability Efforts: Uses organic cotton and recycled materials to reduce reliance on virgin fibers.
- Eco-Friendly Initiatives: They use biodegradable bags for shipping to reduce plastic waste.
- Durability and Design: Creates long-lasting gear for rugged Canadian conditions, supporting a slow-fashion approach.
- Responsible Materials: Offers products like an SPF 50 UV hoodie made from 16 recycled bottles.
-
Performance Features: Designs functional apparel that is waterproof, windproof, and breathable for active outdoor lifestyle use.
eco-Problem and Health Problem
Most outdoor apparel is not truly eco-friendly due to its reliance on petroleum-based synthetic materials. Although recycled materials are becoming more common, nearly half of outdoor textiles still have a significant environmental impact.
The fashion industry contributes heavily to microfibre pollution, with a single load of polyester laundry releasing up to 700,000 microplastic fibers.
Additionally, about 85% of textiles end up in landfills or incinerators each year, and less than 1% are recycled into new clothing.
ecoMVMNT Solution
Northbound Gear has earned ecoMVMNT’s Environmental Seal of Approval for its proactive leadership in sustainable practices, from eco-friendly manufacturing to responsible packaging. The brand has also received ecoMVMNT’s Health Approval for creating outdoor gear designed to withstand harsh weather, ensuring safety and comfort for more active outdoor lifestyles.