The Five Pillars of a Truly Sustainable Product

When evaluating whether a product is truly sustainable, there are five key elements to consider:

1. Materials: What Is It Made From?
A product’s sustainability begins with the raw materials used to create it. Ethical luxury products prioritize:

• Renewable or Plant-Based Materials – Sustainable alternatives like organic cotton, bamboo, cork, or plant-based vegan leathers made from cactus, apple, or coconut are far better for the environment than traditional materials.
• Recycled or Upcycled Components – Using post-consumer recycled materials or repurposed waste reduces the need for virgin resources.
• Non-Toxic and Biodegradable Ingredients – Sustainable skincare, for example, avoids harmful chemicals and synthetic additives that can pollute waterways and harm ecosystems.

At Deed Industries, we carefully vet every product in our store to ensure it meets these material standards. From vegan leather bags made from plant-based materials to organic teas harvested without harmful chemicals, we seek out products that minimize environmental harm at every step.

2. Ethical Sourcing: Where Does It Come From?
Sustainability isn’t just about the environment—it’s also about people. Ethical sourcing ensures that the individuals involved in the production process are treated fairly. A truly sustainable product should:

• Be made by artisans or manufacturers who receive fair wages and work in safe conditions.
• Support small businesses or cooperatives that empower local communities.
  Avoid exploitative labor practices, including child labor or unsafe working environments.

Deed Industries only partners with suppliers and craftspeople who share our values—ensuring every purchase supports ethical production, not exploitation.

3. Production: How Is It Made?
The way a product is manufactured has a massive impact on its sustainability. Ethical brands prioritize:

• Energy-Efficient and Low-Waste Production – Factories should run on renewable energy where possible, and brands should implement systems to reduce excess waste.
• Water and Resource Conservation – Some industries, like fashion, are notoriously water-intensive. Sustainable brands find ways to use less water and reduce waste.
• Cruelty-Free Practices – No animals should be harmed in the making of a truly ethical product. This applies to everything from skincare (no animal testing) to fashion (no leather or fur from animal sources).

For example, the Green Hermitage vegan leather handbags we carry are crafted from sustainable plant-based materials with minimal environmental impact, while our grums skincare range uses upcycled coffee grounds to create high-performance, zero-waste beauty products.

4. Packaging: What Happens After You Buy It?
Packaging is one of the most overlooked aspects of sustainability. A truly eco-friendly product should:

• Use Minimal or Recycled Packaging – Excessive plastic wrapping is wasteful and unnecessary.
• Be 100% Recyclable or Biodegradable – Look for compostable mailers, recycled paper boxes, or glass containers that can be reused.
• Encourage Circularity – Some brands take responsibility for their packaging by offering refillable options or take-back programs.

At Deed Industries, we ensure that all our packaging is made from recycled materials and designed for reusability. We also partner with Utilitarian, a platform that connects people with recycling solutions and encourages circularity in everyday products.

5. Longevity: Will It Stand the Test of Time?
One of the most sustainable things you can do is buy less, but better. A product that lasts for years is always more sustainable than one that needs to be replaced every season. Ethical luxury brands prioritize:

• High-Quality Craftsmanship – Well-made products last longer and reduce waste.
  Timeless Design – Avoiding trend-based "fast fashion" means fewer items ending up in landfill.
• Multi-Functionality – Items designed for versatility and durability ensure they get more use.

At Deed Industries, we believe in slow luxury—choosing fewer, higher-quality pieces that last. Every item we offer is designed to enhance your life, not just for a moment, but for years to come.