Outerknown's Sustainability Rating:
Materials
Slow Consumption
Accountability
Our ratings are based on a scale from 1 (avoid) to 5 (best). How we rate →
Good
Where Outerknown is doing well: It uses a majority of sustainable fibers in its garments. It helps keeps garments out of landfill by offering a resale program and a warranty on select items. It uses plastic-free packaging and has begun to incorporate renewable energy in its production.
Where Outerknown has room to grow: It does not report its emissions tracking or reduction targets. It shares limited information about its supply chain beyond the production phase.
Detailed Summary
Materials
How is this brand using sustainable materials, sourcing, and shipping to reduce its impact?
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Raw Materials
Outerknown uses majority (~95%) low impact materials in its garments, including organic and recycled cotton. It uses a minimal amount of high impact materials, like elastane. The brand is aiming to even further reduce its use of high impact materials, working towards a commitment of 100% preferred fibers in its garments. It has reported progress against this goal in the past year and appears to be on track.
Energy Use & Production
Outerknown shares limited information about its energy strategy. Eight of its production partners are at least partially powered by renewable energy.
Packaging & Distribution
Outerknown uses 100% plastic-free packaging. Its eco-friendly materials include recycled paper.
Slow Consumption
Does this brand lower demand for new items by encouraging conscious consumption and facilitating the long-term use of its products?
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Repair & Care
Outerknown does not offer repair services or support. It offers a lifetime warranty for some of its products. It also gives detailed care instructions to extend garment lifespan.
Take Back Programs
Outerknown has a take back program that accepts its own brand's garments for resale. It transparently reports on the impact of this program.
Slow Fashion
Outerknown has a core evergreen collection, with limited new releases.
Marketing
Commons is still analyzing this brand's marketing emails.
Accountability
Is this brand transparent about its sustainability goals and how it’s working toward them?
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Transparency & Reporting
Outerknown has a prominent sustainability page, with details on circularity, materials, supply chain partners, and labor practices. The information provided is strategic and data-driven. This page was last updated in 2023. The brand does not have an annual sustainability report.
Emissions Tracking
Commons could not find information for emissions tracking.
Emissions Targets
Commons could not find verification that it offsets any emissions. Commons could not find emissions reduction targets for Outerknown.
Supply Chain & Labor
Outerknown publishes the names and locations of its production partners. It does not share information about partners further up the supply or its supply chain traceability. The brand publicly shares a supplier code of conduct, which limits subcontracting, protects the right to collective bargaining, requires a living wage, and prohibits forced labor. Some of its partners are fair trade certified.
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