Mother Earth is crying out and it is high time we listen to the call, says th Founder-CEO of bag brand Baggit, Nina Lekhi.

Increasing pollution, climatic changes, global warming, ozone layer depletion and other adverse effects are constant signals of a deteriorating ecosystem. We can sit back and wait for major disasters to unfold or find a way to tackle it right now.

Choosing the latter is indispensable for our own good and that of the future generation. There are many ways to save the environment, and fashion is one of them. The use of recyclable fabrics and slight alteration in the production and manufacturing processes are ways to contribute towards alleviating the harm done to the environment. Sustainable fashion is an alternative that will eventually last.

Gone are the days when leather was the only material considered rich and exquisite. Of late, many brands have shifted from leather to faux leather. They are making efforts to craft stylish handbags and apparel made from rich, embossed or faux leather materials that are environmentally friendly. These fabrics provide the required oomph, but do not carry the harm that leather brings. The dyes are non-carcinogenic azo-free, and the materials are cruelty-free since no animal is harmed for the sake of fashion. What better way to contribute towards the well-being of the environment!

Every World Earth Day, eco-conscious fashion brands take initiatives to save the environment. The concept of implementing the three Rs --- reduce, reuse, and recycle --- in the manufacturing process to create with non-leather materials, and spreading awareness, is brilliant. Our bag brand, Baggit is committed to a philosophy of beauty without cruelty and to being environment-friendly. Keeping in mind the safety of animals and the environment, the brand uses recyclable fabrics.

While there are grave consequences associated with the use of certain fabrics, there are some whose effect on the environment is comparatively less.

A fabulous substitute for leather!

PVC or polyvinyl chloride fabrics are an excellent option, especially in the clothing, shoes and handbag industries. Brands that are eco-conscious usually opt for this fabric over leather. These materials are of high quality and 100 per cent recyclable. A lot of energy is saved and carbon footprint is reduced as well, which directly benefits the environment. This eco-friendly material provides designers the freedom to explore and experiment with popular designs and styles at affordable rates. This works wonders for them and the environment. PVC material is especially excellent for bags and luggage, because of the toughness and durability. A wide variety of colours and material effects are available for handbags. Travel becomes convenient and stylish.

Timeless denim

A timeless fabric, denim is trendy and recyclable. A lot can be done to that old pair of jeans in your closet. They can be reused to make bags, belts, or you could tear off your denims to create a distressed look. Since denim is versatile and can be recycled or reused, motivated me to include denim in my premium range, The Rusted Revolution.

Synthetic or faux materials are trendier

PU or polyurethane fabric is faux leather. Soft to touch, cheaper, animal-friendly and environmentally friendly, durable PU is easier to maintain as it can be dry-cleaned. PU does not crack or fade soon under sunlight. With the use of these fabrics, imagine the large amounts of chemicals required to treat leather hides and harmful by-products produced that can be completely avoided.

A feel of leather, but no leather

Semi PU material is artificial/synthetic leather that is totally different from genuine leather. It is another great way of getting the feel of leather and not harming the environment.

Organic cotton to your rescue

The impact of organic cotton on the environment is fairly minimal. This is grown without any agro-chemicals that are harmful to the land or environment. This fabric is soft to the touch and comfortable. Organic cotton is expensive, but contributes to a safer environment.

With the rise of sustainable fabrics in the fashion industry and also keeping in mind the benefits of using them, these are becoming excellent alternatives. And with innovation in styles and designs, I believe sustainable fashion is truly a lot sassier than conventional fashion. Consumers are becoming more aware, starting to think green and resorting to recyclable fabrics.

We need to celebrate a greener and sustainable lifestyle with eco-friendly and recyclable choices, and support larger ecological causes.