Is Printing on Clothes Sustainable? Why Ethical Garment Printing Matters

Why Ethical Garment Printing Companies Matter in the Custom Apparel Industry

The apparel industry is known as one of the most environmentally and socially damaging sectors.

A conscious approach to custom clothing—and the rise of ethical garment printing companies—offers a better way forward. These practices promote sustainability, support fair working conditions, and offer long-term benefits for both people and the planet.

Here’s why ethical printing is essential for the custom apparel industry—environmentally, socially, and economically.

The UK’s custom apparel industry is facing growing pressure over its environmental impact and labour practices. As consumers become more eco-conscious, brands must adopt sustainable and responsible methods. Ethical printing is no longer a bonus—it’s the bare minimum. It addresses urgent environmental issues, protects workers’ rights, and offers long-term savings and growth for businesses. Here’s why this shift matters now more than ever.

A Step Towards Greener Printing

Every year, the UK sends around 350,000 tonnes of clothing to landfill. This staggering figure shows how urgently the industry needs change. Ethical printing helps reduce this impact by using eco-friendly materials like organic cotton and recycled polyester.

Many ethical printers choose water-based inks. These inks avoid the toxic chemicals found in traditional plastisol inks. They’re safer for both the environment and the people handling them—and they meet the rising demand for eco-conscious products.

Ethical printing also pushes back against fast fashion. It encourages brands to produce high-quality garments that last. By promoting durability, businesses help reduce textile waste and support a circular apparel economy. High-quality garments also lead to richer, longer-lasting prints.

Ethical practices aren’t just good for the planet—they’re good for business.
Over two-thirds of UK shoppers now prioritise sustainable products. Brands that take the ethical route are better positioned to serve this growing market.

Sustainability Pays Off

While ethical production might cost more upfront, it often leads to savings over time. Energy-efficient machinery and waste reduction strategies help lower operational costs. Smart investments in sustainable processes can pay off in long-term profits.

Strengthening Brand Reputation

In a crowded market, ethical practices help brands stand out. Businesses that commit to sustainability build stronger loyalty with eco-aware consumers. They also attract investors and partners who value responsible operations.

Transparent, ethical approaches show leadership in an industry that urgently needs change. Brands that lead on sustainability set the standard for others to follow.

Innovations Driving Ethical Garment Printing

Ethical printing continues to evolve through innovation. Print-on-demand services reduce overproduction by only creating what’s needed, minimising waste. Textile-to-textile recycling initiatives also keep materials in use and out of landfills.

Closed-loop systems take this further by turning old garments into new fabric. These systems support a circular economy and reduce the demand for virgin resources.

Ethical garment printing isn’t a passing trend—it’s the future. By using better materials, supporting fair labour, and embracing smart technologies, brands can meet consumer expectations and create real impact.

Commitments at Teesh

At Teesh, we’re committed to a more sustainable future—one print at a time. In our warehouse, we work consciously to reduce waste and operate responsibly.

We use renewable energy and separate recycling and general waste across the studio. Misprinted garments are reused for cleaning, and wearable overstock is donated to local charities.

We volunteer for annual SMETA Sedex Audits to ensure safe, ethical conditions for our team. These audits confirm our commitment to staff wellbeing and responsible operations.

You can also make a difference. Shop sustainable blank garment options from brands like Stanley/Stella, and join us in shaping a cleaner, fairer custom clothing industry.