Sustainable living is a lifestyle that attempts to reduce an individual’s or society’s use of Earth’s natural resources and personal resources. Our hobbies and pastimes are no exception to this, and as lovers of Minnesota’s glistening lakes and captivating recreational spots, it’s always essential to approach them with sustainability in mind. One area that can often be ignored, however, is swimwear. In this post, we will delve into the world of sustainable swimwear to explore how our choices, both as consumers and revelers in the beauty of Minnesota, can support eco-friendly efforts without compromising on style or comfort.
When one thinks of sustainable swimwear, they might be prone to picturing drab, unflattering pieces with a texture resembling a recycled grocery bag more than a bikini. In contrast, the truth is a sparkling assortment of high-quality, form-flattering, and vibrantly colored bathing suits that would make any lake-goer proud.
The fashion industry, including swimwear, is notorious for its harsh environmental impact, with carcinogenic dyes, water pollution, landfill waste, and intensive energy use characteristically marking its procedures. However, a new generation of swimwear designers is challenging this norm, pioneering sustainable swimsuits made from recycled materials like fishing nets, carpets, or discarded plastics. Arguably, the resulting suits are robust, comfortable, and high-performing in water, giving even the esteemed Seafolly or Speedo a run for their money.
For instance, the Australian brand RubyMoon has become a forerunner in the sustainable swimwear industry. Their collection is not only beautifully designed but also created using ECONYL – a type of nylon fashioned from discarded fishing nets and other waste. Beyond this, RubyMoon is also the first swim and active wear company to have both environmental and social accreditation.
In the realm of men’s swimwear, Fair Harbor is notable. This brand based in New York recycles post-consumer plastic bottles into boardshorts. To date, they have recycled over 2.5 million plastic bottles into their comfortable and stylish swim shorts and hybrid shorts.
If you’re worried that sustainable swimwear might not be as trendy or fashionable, you only need to look at the designs created by Elle Evans. This Melbourne-based label uses unwanted waste materials to create high-quality, beautiful, and chlorine-resistant swimwear. The patterns are ever-changing and attractive – a fact that showcases that sustainability and style can, indeed, go hand in hand.
As consumers, one crucial aspect of purchasing sustainable swimwear is taking care of the item to extend its lifespan. No matter how sustainably a product is made, buying a new one every summer because the old one has ‘worn out’ is not environmentally friendly. Therefore, it’s worth investing in high-quality, durable brands, and learning how to properly care for your swimwear. This includes not using the dryer, rinsing after each use, and drying flat in the shade to keep your suit in prime condition for as many lake seasons as possible.
With sustainable products often comes a heftier price tag, but that just goes to show that you get what you pay for. Investing in a higher-priced, sustainable bathing suit can reap dividends when it comes to its longevity and reduced impact on the environment. Moreover, although price points may initially be higher, supporting businesses that prioritize the environment over profits can help foster a more sustainable economy in the long run.
But it’s not just about where you buy your swimwear that can contribute to a more sustainable Minnesota lifestyle. Organizations like Hennepin County have frequent drop-off events for textiles not suitable for donation, making it easier to ensure your worn-out swimsuit doesn’t end up clogging a landfill somewhere. Also, the Recycling Association of Minnesota has instituted a statewide recycling program for unwanted fishing line, which not only reduces pollution but also protects our beloved wildlife.
In conclusion, as we continually strive to keep the Minnesota Lakes & Recreation spaces clean and thriving, sustainability is a notion that we should all be diving into, making it a pool party that can, indeed, save the world. By consciously choosing swimwear that respects and protects the environment, we are supporting a healthier planet and potentially setting a new, stylish norm for sustainable fly-dressing around our lakes. Looking good and doing good isn’t just a fleeting trend, but the ultimate, resounding wave of the future.
So, the next time you’re standing on the shore of Lake Superior, gazing out at its sparkling expanse, remember that even our choice of swimwear can contribute to maintaining the majesty of our lakes and recreational spaces. Each step, however small it may seem, swings the momentum towards a more sustainable world. As such, let your swimwear – and all of your choices – reflect a lifestyle that truly cherishes our Minnesota heritage.
