Why we choose Eco Cashmere?

Just like wine or chocolate, not all cashmere is created equal! We spent the last couple of years researching and testing to discover the perfect cashmere yarns that combine uncompromised quality with ethical sourcing, resulting in a product that is both luxurious and sustainable. Our eco cashmere is 65% recycled + 35% virgin cashmere. The mill that we purchase our yarn from is located in Prato, the heartland of the Italian textile industry. Family owned since its inception and with 150 years of experience in yarn and textile production, the mill developed a meticulous process to create this eco quality that follows three distinct steps: 

Step 1: post-consumer cashmere wool garments are sorted by grade, color and content.  

 

By color sorting the clothes, the mill avoids re-dyeing the fiber, thus eliminating the chemical process and preserving the softness of the cashmere.

Step 2: The material is re-sized to flock dimensions. 

 

This means that the recycled garments are taken apart and the yarns combed until they are broken down to individual cashmere filaments. Now fibers can be mixed in specific proportions to determine colors.

Step 3: Once we place our order, the material undergoes carding and is spun into yarns.  

 

We transport the cones into our partner factory in Transylvania where the garments are knitted, washed and finished to perfection.

The mill was awarded the GRS (Global Recycle Standard) certification from the Textile Exchange, an international non-profit organization that supports the commitment of manufacturers in accelerating the implementation of sustainability in the textile production chain. This certification attests the presence of recycled raw materials, it guarantees supply chain traceability and the absence of harmful chemical substances in the process and lastly, monitors compliance with environmental practices and social responsibility standards.

As one can see, the process of recycling is more complex that producing the yarn from brand new cashmere. Yet, due to the unprecedented increase in demand for this precious wool, the Mongolian Plateau has suffered extensive ecosystem damage. The number of goats that are being raised for their wool is simply too large to sustain. Today, the animals are facing food shortages while many herders are forced to abandon the practice altogether.

This knowledge has prompted me to select eco cashmere for the Santicler collection. I am convinced that once you receive your purchase, you will be in awe of its quality and will be happy to know that each garment positively promotes innovation, supports circular economy practices and benefits the environment.