I have to admit that I had previously lumped H&M into the category of fast-fashion offenders, with companies that pump out 6+ seasons of new merchandise a year of disposable fashion.  In actuality, H&M is an affordably-priced, traditional fast-fashion retailer but with a serious dedication to sustainability practices.

H&M is really dedicated to socially and environmentally responsible practices and is completely transparent about their efforts.  They publish their yearly sustainability report [here] and are making efforts to choose sustainable materials and reduce waste.

“Companies of our size can have a big impact on the environment – and they have a duty to think hard about how to reduce their impact. It is a responsibility we take very seriously. We aim to minimize impacts at every stage of our products’ life cycle, from how cotton is grown to the way our customers use our garments.” – H&M website

In 2009, they switched to recycled plastic shopping bags and reduced packaging waste by 50%. A couple of their ongoing goals are to: source all cotton from sustainable sources by 2020, and reduce carbon emissions by 10%.

H&M’s 2011 spring line: the “Conscious Collection” is a breath of fresh air.  This monochromatic collection will outfit your whole family in sustainably made clothes.  Hitting stores in April, this line utilizes co-friendly fabrics like organic cotton and recycled polyester! And is reasonably priced between $8 and $30!

It is clear that H&M is making huge strides in their sustainability efforts. They are a great example for how sustainably practices can be seamlessly incorporated into fashion at any price point! This also means more sustainable fashion choices for you!

Images courtesy of H&M.