Helly Hansen Launches EcoLab
News Release / 14.10.2008
To help make this a reality Helly has launched the Ekolab R&D project, created to try out new sustainable design and manufacturing processes, discover ways to address environmental sustainability and to help reduce its impact on the planet.
The new Ekolab collection - technical jacket and pants, recycled fleece and organic cotton Tees - is the starting point for the brand’s long-term environmental initiative.
As an early result, Helly Hansen is eliminating harmful PTFE from the waterproof breathable membranes in all of its products, incorporating recycled fabrics, and pursuing minimalist design practices that reduce the need for excess resources.
The Ekolab collection is the starting point for the brand’s long-term environmental initiative and the Ekolab R&D project will continue to effect future collections, so Helly Hansen can make more sustainable gear.
The men’s and women’s Ekolab Jacket and Pant are constructed with waterproof breathable Helly Tech® econylon fabrics, and coloured with environmentally sensitive dyes. The jackets are exceptionally durable, yet are designed with a minimalist approach to help reduce the amount of materials and energy resources required to produce the products. The designers have incorporated performance features, such as pit zips, without adding any unnecessary metal and plastic parts. At the same time all hardware, such as plastic trims, zippers, hangtags and packaging is made from 100% recycled materials. And plastic bags are bio-degradeable
The Ekolab collection also includes a fleece made with 60% recycled material (£40) and a series of organic cotton t-shirts, for men and women (from £25 - £30).
The designers have kept the collection simple and functional working on the concept that fewer components equals less waste. Working with local manufacturing elements Helly Hansen has also significantly reduced logistics-related emissions.
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