Dive Into Sustainability: A Guide to Sustainable Swimwear in Australia

Discover the world of sustainable swimwear in Australia! From fabric choices to product sustainability, we've got you covered. Find out which fabrics are gentle on the environment and learn what makes a swimwear product truly sustainable. Explore brands that prioritize sustainability and find stylish options that align with your values. Plus, we'll show you how to recycle and repurpose your swimwear responsibly. Join us on this sustainable swimwear journey and make a positive impact on our oceans. Let's dive in together!

Photo by Yusron El Jihan

What makes swimwear sustainable?

Sustainable swimwear encompasses several key factors that make it environmentally and socially responsible. Here are some elements that contribute to the sustainability of swimwear:

1. Eco-friendly Materials: Sustainable swimwear utilises fabrics made from recycled or renewable materials, such as ECONYL® regenerated nylon
   (regenerated nylon made from pre and post-consumer nylon waste), REPREVE (recycled polyester made from recycled plastic bottles) or Amni Soul Eco® Thread (the world’s first recyclable and biodegradable polyamide yarn). These materials reduce the demand for virgin resources and help divert waste from landfills and oceans.
2. Ethical Manufacturing: Sustainable swimwear brands prioritise fair labor practices, ensuring safe working conditions and fair wages for garment workers. They often partner with manufacturers that adhere to ethical standards and have transparent supply chains.
3. Reduced Chemicals: Sustainable swimwear minimises the use of harmful chemicals, including toxic dyes, bleaches, and finishes. Low-impact or natural dyeing processes are preferred to reduce water pollution and potential harm to workers and ecosystems.
4. Responsible Water Usage: Sustainable swimwear brands strive to conserve water during production, implementing water-efficient processes and technologies. Additionally, they may prioritise materials that require less water during cultivation or manufacturing.
5. Circular Design: Some sustainable swimwear brands incorporate circular design principles, aiming to create products that can be easily recycled or composted at the end of their life. This reduces waste and promotes a more circular economy.
6. Transparency and Certifications: Sustainable swimwear brands often provide transparency about their manufacturing processes, material origins, and certifications. Look for certifications such as Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Oeko-Tex Standard 100, or Bluesign® that ensure responsible practices and safety standards.
7. Longevity and Quality: Sustainable swimwear is designed to be durable and long-lasting, resisting fading, stretching, and degradation. By investing in high-quality swimwear, consumers can reduce the frequency of replacements, thereby minimizing waste.
8. End-of-Life Options: Sustainable swimwear brands may provide information or programs for recycling or repurposing swimwear at the end of its life. This encourages responsible disposal and extends the product's lifecycle.

Transparency is a fundamental aspect of sustainable manufacturing, and it plays a crucial role in allowing us to make informed choices. Fortunately, many brands recognize this and provide detailed information about their sustainability practices on their websites. You can read our sustainable practices in this blog and on this page.

Where to find sustainable swimwear 

If you're on the hunt for sustainable swimwear in Australia, you're in luck! The land Down Under is home to a vibrant and growing community of swimwear brands committed to ethical and eco-friendly practices. Here are some places where you can find sustainable swimwear options:

1. Directly from Sustainable Swimwear Brands: Many swimwear brands have made sustainability their core mission. Visit the websites of brands such as SunDaze Surf, Jade Swim, or Baiia to browse their collections directly. These brands often share their commitment to sustainable practices, materials used, and certifications obtained, empowering you to make an informed choice. You can use social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok to find sustainable brands by searching for hashtags.
   
   

2. Sustainable Fashion Boutiques: Visit local sustainable fashion boutiques that showcase a thoughtfully curated selection of swimwear brands committed to ethical production and eco-friendly materials. Keep an eye out for boutiques like Eco Swim Australia, Remuse Designs, or Slow Waves, which specialise in sustainable and ethical swimwear.

3. Pop-Up Markets and Sustainable Fashion Events: Stay tuned for pop-up markets and sustainable fashion events happening in your area. These events often feature independent designers and brands with a focus on sustainability, providing a unique opportunity to meet the creators and explore their sustainable swimwear collections up close.

4. Secondhand and Vintage Stores: Extend the lifespan of swimwear by shopping secondhand or vintage. Thrift stores, online marketplaces like Depop or eBay, and vintage stores can surprise you with unique, one-of-a-kind sustainable swimwear finds. By opting for secondhand, you contribute to reducing waste and embracing a more circular fashion economy.
   
   

Photo by Naja Bertolt Jensen

How to recycle your swimwear

When the time comes to say goodbye to your beloved swimwear, recycling offers a responsible and eco-friendly solution. Recycling swimwear helps divert waste from landfills, reduces resource consumption, and supports the circular economy. Here are steps you can take to recycle your swimwear in Australia:

1. Check with Sustainable Swimwear Brands: Start by exploring the websites of sustainable swimwear brands. Some brands have recycling programs in place, allowing you to return your worn-out swimwear to them for proper recycling. Check if the brand you purchased from offers any recycling initiatives and follow their instructions for returning the swimwear.

2. TerraCycle Programs: Look into TerraCycle, a global recycling company that partners with various brands and organisations to provide recycling solutions for hard-to-recycle materials. Check if there are any swimwear recycling programs available through TerraCycle in your area. They might have specific drop-off locations or collection points where you can deposit your swimwear for recycling.

3. Local Recycling Facilities: Contact your local recycling centers or waste management facilities to inquire about textile recycling options. Some facilities accept textiles, including swimwear, for recycling. They have the expertise and resources to process and repurpose the fabrics, ensuring they don't end up in landfills.

4. Donate or Swap: Consider donating gently used swimwear to local charities, thrift stores, or clothing banks. These organisations often accept secondhand clothing, including swimwear, as long as it's in good condition. You can also participate in clothing swap events or online platforms where you can exchange your swimwear with others, giving it a new life without creating additional waste.

5. Repurpose or Upcycle: Get creative and find ways to repurpose or upcycle your swimwear. Cut it into pieces and use the fabric for various craft projects, such as making hair accessories, bags, or cushion covers. Let your imagination run wild and transform your old swimwear into something new and useful.

Remember to ensure your swimwear is clean and dry before recycling or donating it. This helps maintain hygiene standards and ensures the materials can be properly processed.

In conclusion, the world of sustainable swimwear in Australia is brimming with exciting options that not only make a positive impact on the planet but also allow you to express your unique style. With a growing number of brands committed to transparency, ethical practices, and eco-friendly materials, sustainable swimwear is now more accessible than ever before. By choosing sustainable swimwear, recycling when possible, and supporting brands that prioritise sustainability, we can collectively contribute to a fashion industry that respects both people and the planet. So, dive into sustainability, explore the wide array of options available, and make a splash with your conscious choices. Together, let's create a future where sustainable swimwear becomes the norm, empowering us to enjoy the beach with style and a clear conscience.

Shop our collection of sustainable surf swimwear today