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The Greenward Shift: Building ERDA Active 

I’ve always loved being active. Whether it was morning runs, yoga sessions, or just lounging at home, athleisure wear was my go-to. One day, as I stood in front of my closet filled with leggings, tops, and hoodies, I had an uncomfortable realization: most of the brands I wore weren’t built to last. My favourite pieces often faded, stretched out, or even tore after just a few months.

This led me down a rabbit hole of research, and what I found shocked me. According to a 2022 report from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions and nearly 20% of wastewater. Many of the fast fashion athleisure brands I supported contributed to this problem. And while I wanted to switch to sustainable options, I quickly discovered another challenge: affordability. The sustainable options available were often priced out of reach for most people, myself included.

That’s when I decided to take matters into my own hands. If I couldn’t find athleisure that was both durable and sustainably made without breaking the bank, why not create it myself? And so, ERDA Active was born.

Why ERDA Active?

At ERDA Active, our ethos is simple: sustainability, durability, affordability, and circularity. I wanted to create activewear that not only performed beautifully but also aligned with values I hold dear — protecting the planet and making better choices accessible to everyone.

Here’s what sets ERDA Active apart:

  1. Sustainable Fabrics: Instead of relying on virgin polyester or nylon (derived from fossil fuels), we use environmentally conscious materials like recycled polyester and organic cotton. These fabrics are not only eco-friendly but also soft, breathable, and high-performance.
  2. Durability at the Core: Fast fashion thrives on short product lifespans. I wanted ERDA pieces to be different. Every design is rigorously tested to ensure it withstands the demands of an active lifestyle. Think hoodies that don’t lose their stretch and tops that retain their shape wash after wash.
  3. Circular Economy: At ERDA Active, we believe in giving our products a second life. That’s why we’ve implemented a take-back program. When you’re ready to part with an ERDA piece, send it back to us for store credit. We’ll recycle the materials into new products, ensuring nothing goes to waste and creating a truly circular system.
  4. Accessible Pricing: Sustainability shouldn’t be a luxury. By working closely with ethical manufacturers and streamlining our processes, we’ve made it possible to offer premium-quality activewear without the premium price tag.

 

The Journey That Inspired Change

Starting ERDA Active wasn’t just about creating a product; it was about addressing a personal pain point. I remember the first time I slipped on a pair of ERDA hoodie made from recycled materials. They were as comfortable and flattering as anything I’d ever worn, but they came with the added bonus of knowing I was reducing waste. It felt like the perfect blend of purpose and performance.

I also made a commitment to transparency. From sourcing to production, ERDA Active ensures every step of the process aligns with our values. Our manufacturers uphold ethical practices, offering fair wages and safe working conditions. We also minimize water usage and reduce waste during production, because every detail matters.

If you’re like me — someone who spends most of their time in athleisure — I invite you to join the ERDA Active movement. Let’s show that style, performance, and sustainability can go hand in hand. Whether it’s a morning run or a lazy Sunday, ERDA Active is here to support you and the planet.

Together, we can create a future where sustainability isn’t just an option but the standard. It starts with the clothes we wear, and it starts with brands like ERDA Active.

Takeaway Tips for Embracing Sustainability

  1. Invest in Quality: Choose pieces designed to last, like ERDA Active’s durable and sustainable collections.
  2. Care for Your Clothes: Wash in cold water, avoid over washing, and air dry when possible.
  3. Be Curious: Learn about the brands you support. Transparency is key.
  4. Embrace Circularity: Take advantage of programs like ERDA Active’s take-back initiative to ensure your clothes find a new purpose.
  5. Share Your Story: Every small action inspires change. Tell your friends about the sustainable choices you’re making.

Together, we can make every step count — for ourselves, our communities, and our planet.