My Journey to Sustainable Fashion: From Recycling to Humsatva

When I think about my journey to building Humsatva, I’m reminded of those early days in college when a love for recycling sparked what has now become a deeply rooted commitment to sustainable fashion. Back then, I didn’t realize that my experiments with recyclable materials and upcycled art would evolve into a mission to help reshape an industry known for its environmental impact. But here I am, years later, bringing this dream to life with a brand that reflects not only my passion but my belief in the power of sustainable design to make a difference.

A College Passion for Repurposing

My journey started in college, where I was constantly inspired by the challenge of creating something useful and beautiful from things others had discarded. I would take materials that others deemed “waste” and turn them into art, practical products, or both. There was something so satisfying about giving these items a second life, transforming them from forgotten objects into something meaningful and valuable.

As I delved deeper into upcycling, I began to see how these small acts of creativity were part of a bigger picture. By creating something new from old or unused items, I was helping to reduce waste and demonstrate how repurposing could be an act of environmental responsibility. This fascination with recycling wasn’t just about art; it was about challenging the way we consume, discard, and view the resources around us.

Facing the Fashion Industry's Impact

As my interest in design grew, I started exploring how these sustainable principles could be applied to the world of fashion. And that’s when I began to realize just how much the fashion industry was contributing to environmental problems worldwide. Fashion is one of the largest polluters on the planet, responsible for nearly 80% of its pollution due to the use of synthetic fibers, toxic dyes, and resource-intensive production processes. The magnitude of the problem hit me hard.

I knew that if I was going to work in fashion, it had to be in a way that would challenge these harmful practices. This desire led me to start learning about sustainable materials and eco-friendly production methods. It was then that I encountered hemp fabric, a discovery that would ultimately shape my vision for Humsatva.

Discovering the Miracle of Hemp

When I came across hemp, I was amazed by its potential. Hemp is more than just a fabric; it’s a sustainable powerhouse that offers a natural solution to many of the problems in traditional fashion. As the sister plant of cannabis, hemp has often been misunderstood. But unlike cannabis, industrial hemp contains only trace amounts of THC, making it non-psychoactive. This incredible plant was one of the earliest fibers used by humans, dating back to around 10,000 BC—thousands of years before cotton.

The more I learned about hemp, the more I realised what a gem it was for both the environment and the economy

• Sustainable Growth: Hemp uses minimal water compared to cotton and can grow without pesticides, protecting our soil and water from chemical runoff.

• Soil Rejuvenation: Hemp improves soil health by returning nutrients and removing toxins, making it ideal for crop rotation.

• Carbon Capture: It’s a natural carbon sink, absorbing more CO₂ per acre than many other crops.

• Durability and Comfort: Hemp fabric is long-lasting, breathable, and softens over time, making it an ideal choice for clothing.

Learning about these qualities was a turning point for me. Hemp wasn’t just sustainable; it was resilient, eco-friendly, and versatile. I realised that it could serve as the foundation for Humsatva, providing a way to create fashion that was both stylish and respectful of our planet.

Building Humsatva: A Brand Rooted in Sustainability

With hemp as the inspiration, I began building Humsatva, a sustainable fashion brand with a mission to challenge the harmful practices of fast fashion. Every decision I made in designing Humsatva was influenced by the lessons I had learned about reducing waste, embracing sustainable materials, and prioritizing ethical practices.

But it’s not just about using hemp. Humsatva is about a holistic approach to fashion, one that includes:

• Eco-Friendly Materials: Beyond hemp, I’m committed to using materials like organic cotton, recycled fabrics, and natural dyes.

• Fair Labor Practices: Working only with partners who provide safe, fair-wage jobs and treat workers with respect.

• Transparency: Sharing the journey of each product from start to finish, so customers understand the impact of their purchase.

• Designing for Longevity: Creating timeless, high-quality pieces that last, promoting a “buy less, buy better” approach.

My goal is to make Humsatva more than just a fashion brand; I want it to be part of a broader movement toward sustainability in the industry. Through every piece we produce, I hope to show that fashion doesn’t have to come at the expense of the planet.

The Bigger Vision: Fashion as a Force for Good

Today, as I continue building Humsatva, I’m motivated by a vision of the fashion industry where brands and consumers alike embrace sustainability. Imagine an industry where clothes are created mindfully, using renewable resources and supporting ethical practices. Imagine consumers buying thoughtfully, choosing items they know will last and are made responsibly. That’s the world I want to help build with Humsatva.

This journey has taught me that fashion can be a powerful vehicle for positive change, and that it’s possible to balance creativity, style, and sustainability. I believe that, as designers and entrepreneurs, we have a responsibility to give back to the earth and use our talents for something greater.

Looking Forward: Humsatva and the Future of Sustainable Fashion

Launching Humsatva has been both challenging and deeply fulfilling. There’s still so much I want to do—explore new materials, expand into different types of clothing and accessories, and partner with communities to make a positive social impact. But the core mission remains the same: to offer beautiful, ethical, and eco-friendly fashion that helps consumers make choices they can feel good about.

Nature has given us so much. It’s our time to give back by embracing sustainability, supporting ethical production, and promoting responsible consumption. I hope that Humsatva will not only help create a greener fashion industry but also inspire others to find creative ways to protect and cherish our planet. Because, in the end, every step we take toward sustainability is a step toward a healthier, more compassionate world.