Ethical Issues in making Silk Fabric

When it comes to making ethical fabrics, the journey is not easy. To begin with the social and environmental issues were taken into account. The production process is chemical and pesticide free but this pushed up the cost of production and reduced our profits. We are committed to our social and environmental causes and looking for ways to continue with our work.

Ethical issues influence design and fabric

A responsible designer will ensure that design ideas are developed to make the product sustainable and will work with the client and producers to apply fair trade principles to the make the product. This target market would prefer to buy from producers that support the environment and their employees’ local community through long-term commitment to pay fair wages and create healthy work conditions.

What is Ethical?

Determining what is ethical is difficult- All I can say is that my process of silk production is tied to the common good.

• Good for the environment - The foliage and root spread helps in the conservation of the soil. Waste from silk worms goes back into the garden as manure.

• Dried twigs and excess leaves are used as fuel and fodder- reducing pressure on vegetation and forest.

• Shift work pattern has given women the opportunity for employment- helping women to become important players in the decision making process.

• sericulture can generate employment for up to 15 persons for every KG of raw silk produced - 10 out of these are women.

• The mulberry garden is free of chemical fertilisers and the silk making process also chemical free. Our carbon footprint is minimal.

• Hand spinning and hand weaving in pit looms

• 80% of the value of the silk fabric flow back to the cocoon grower, spinner and weaver.

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