The custom apparel industry in the UK is under increasing scrutiny for its environmental impact and labour practices. As consumers become more eco-conscious and ethically driven, brands must adapt by adopting sustainable and responsible practices. Ethical printing offers a transformative solution, but also one which should be the absolute bare minimum as soon as possible, addressing pressing environmental concerns, supporting fair labour, and providing long-term economic benefits. Here’s why it matters now more than ever.

A Step Towards Greener Printing

The UK sends an alarming 350,000 tonnes of clothing to landfill annually, highlighting the urgent need for sustainable solutions. Ethical printing can prioritise eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester, significantly reducing the industry’s environmental footprint.

Moreover, ethical printing methods often favour water-based inks, which are free from harmful chemicals found in some plastisol inks. These inks are not only safer for the environment but also align with growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products.

Ethical printing also combats fast fashion’s wasteful practices by focusing on durable, high-quality garments. By encouraging customers to invest in products that last, brands can help reduce textile waste and promote a more sustainable apparel cycle. Plus, the higher quality and premium fabric garments can lead to a richer and bolder print finish, making the finished product one to last in the cycle.

Ethical printing doesn’t just benefit the planet and workers—it’s also good for business. Over two-thirds of UK shoppers now prioritise sustainable products, meaning that brands offering ethical custom apparel are better positioned to capture this growing market.

Sustainability Pays Off

Although ethical practices may involve higher upfront costs, they often lead to long-term savings. Energy-efficient processes and waste reduction strategies, for example, can significantly cut operational expenses over time.

Strengthening Brand Reputation

In an increasingly crowded marketplace, ethical practices offer a unique selling point. Brands committed to sustainability can differentiate themselves, building loyalty among eco-conscious consumers while attracting investors and partners who value responsible practices.

By promoting transparency and ethical operations, businesses not only enhance their reputation but also position themselves as leaders in the transition toward a more sustainable apparel industry.

Innovations Driving Ethical Printing

From textile-to-textile recycling initiatives to print-on-demand services, ethical printing efforts embrace innovation to reduce waste and promote sustainability. Print-on-demand, for instance, eliminates excess inventory by producing only what is needed, supporting a zero-waste approach.

Brands can also adopt closed-loop systems, where worn garments are recycled into new textiles, keeping materials in circulation and out of landfills.

Ethical printing is more than a trend—it’s the future of the custom apparel industry. By embracing sustainable materials, fair labour practices, and innovative processes, businesses can drive positive change while meeting the demands of conscious UK consumers.

At Teesh, we’re proud to take steps towards a sustainable future, balancing today’s efforts with tomorrow’s goals. Together, we can create a cleaner, fairer industry—one print at a time.