Meet Tentree, the Sustainable Clothing Brand That Plants Trees With Every Purchase

Sustainable Clothing

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It’s no secret that our planet has become overwhelmed with pollution, plastic and toxins. Forests are also disappearing at an alarming rate due to harmful human practices, and that’s where Tentree comes in. The eco-centered clothing brand puts Mother Nature first and plants 10 trees with each and every purchase made. Keep reading to learn more about Tentree, their sustainability practices and some of our favorite forest-friendly products.

When was Tentree established?

In 2011, Kalen Emsley was working as a tree planter and connected with an old friend, David Luba, who was living in Hawaii. Kalen hopped on a plane to visit the beautiful state and the two came up with the idea of a clothing brand that gives back to the earth for each garment sold. Tentree was launched soon after in Kalen’s hometown of Saskatchewan, Canada. Kalen’s brother Derrick then got involved and came on as the CEO.

The brand humbly started in a basement, and by 2014, they had already planted 1 million trees and created 160,000 hours of employment for local people in developing countries. Tentree’s HQ is now located in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.

What is Tentree’s mission?

Tentree makes sustainable clothing essentials using materials that are kind to the world around us and create actual, tangible change in the form of little baby saplings. As of this article, Tentree has planted over 66 million trees, which have reforested over 5,000 hectares of land (equivalent to 12,000 football fields) and removed millions of tonnes of CO2 from our atmosphere–and they’re not stopping anytime soon. Their goal is to plant 1 billion trees by 2030.

What materials does Tentree use to produce their clothing?

The fashion and textile industries produce massive amounts of pollution. According to U.N. statistics, the two are responsible for 20% of wastewater and generate more greenhouse gas emissions than all international flights and maritime shipping combined. Tentree focuses on four main fibers and materials to maximize sustainability. Here’s a helpful breakdown for each one:

  • TENCEL: a wood pulp fibre that’s soft, breathable and lightweight; used in the signature TreeBlend material and seasonal collections
  • Recycled polyester: made from single-use plastics that are taken out of crowded landfills and given new life
  • Organic cotton: grown with minimal use of harsh chemicals to make sure workers (and their families) aren’t exposed to toxins on the regular
  • Hemp: a fibre known for its durability and UV resistance; uses much less water during the growing and harvesting processes than normal cotton

Tentree has also committed to replacing all single-use plastics with sustainable options and eliminating virgin packaging material from their supply chain by 2023.

Can I track how many trees I’ve planted through my purchases?

Yes! Locate the unique tag included on your new piece of apparel and input the code using this link. You’ll get an up-close and personal look at the positive impact you’re making. You can see where each tree is planted, Tentree’s ongoing projects and the communities they’re getting involved with. It’s important to note that the 10 trees will be planted regardless of whether or not you register your code. You can click here to read more in-depth about the planting process.

CHECK OUT SOME OF OUR FAVORITE TENTREE PRODUCTS

The Juniper tree silhouette is Tentree’s signature design. This classic hoodie is breathable and extra comfy with kangaroo pockets to store your phone and keys. Because of the unique pattern, make sure you wash on cold and hang to dry.

Dr. Suess’ timeless character The Lorax speaks for the trees, and now you can too. Ditch the plastic grocery bags and stow your Ben & Jerry’s into this adorable 100% cotton, reusable tote. Looking for eco-friendly holiday ideas? You can also use it as a sustainable gift bag, as one buyer noted in the reviews.

The Kids National Geographic Border Crew features the iconic yellow frame we all know and love but in a miniature size. It has a regular fit with a ribbed collar, cuff and hem and medium-stretch fabric. Your nature-loving child won’t want to take this off.

Everyone needs a really, really good pair of joggers. The Men’s Destination Stretch Jogger will take you anywhere you need to go with maximum stretch. Each pair is made from recycled water bottles and has a regular fit. There’s a hidden drawcord at the waist along with handy back pockets.

Only you can prevent wildfires! Smokey the Bear was a big part of many people’s childhoods. The relaxed fit crew neck T-shirt is a throwback to the longest-running public service advertising campaign in U.S. history. Fun fact, Smokey first appeared on a poster in 1944 and is still in use today.


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