People Tree is a globally recognized pioneer in the ethical and sustainable fashion movement. Founded in 1991 by social entrepreneur Safia Minney, the brand was established with a revolutionary mission: to create a business that is not only profitable but also deeply committed to fair trade, environmental sustainability, and the empowerment of people. It was built on the core belief that fashion can be a force for good, challenging the exploitative and environmentally damaging practices of the conventional industry from its very beginning.
The brand's philosophy is rooted in its dedication to the ten principles of fair trade, ensuring that every garment is made with respect for both people and Earth. People Tree works directly with over 50 Fair Trade producer groups and artisans in developing countries, establishing long-term partnerships that provide stable employment and fair wages. This direct-to-maker model ensures that artisans, many of whom are women, receive a living wage and work in safe conditions. Beyond fair compensation, the brand actively invests in the well-being of its partners and their communities, supporting initiatives in healthcare, education, and skills training. This approach helps to build resilient local economies and create lasting change for people who are homeless or otherwise marginalized.
In addition to its social mission, People Tree is a leader in environmental sustainability. The company was the first fashion brand to receive the World Fair Trade Organization product label, a testament to its holistic approach. It is renowned for its use of organic cotton and other eco-friendly materials, such as TENCEL™ and natural dyes. By exclusively using low-impact materials and traditional, handcrafted techniques like hand weaving and block printing, the brand significantly reduces its environmental footprint. Its commitment extends to using natural fertilizers and rainwater harvesting, promoting regenerative farming practices that help to restore soil health and biodiversity.
A cornerstone of this commitment is People Tree's use of GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certification. The brand was the first in the world to achieve this certification for a supply chain entirely within the developing world. GOTS is a powerful tool against greenwashing because it is a rigorous, third-party verified standard that covers the entire textile supply chain, from raw materials to the final product. It goes far beyond simply certifying organic fiber content; it mandates strict environmental and social criteria that ensure every stage of production is ethical and sustainable.
The GOTS Environmental Criteria are comprehensive and uncompromising. The standard requires the use of organic fibers that are grown without harmful synthetic pesticides or genetically modified organisms (GMOs). It prohibits the use of a wide range of toxic chemicals, including heavy metals and chlorine-based bleaches, during processing. Furthermore, GOTS mandates that all wet-processing units, such as dyeing facilities, have a functional wastewater treatment plant to prevent pollution of local water sources. Certified companies must also have a clear environmental policy to monitor and reduce their energy and water consumption and effectively manage waste.
The GOTS Social Criteria are equally robust and are based on the International Labour Organization (ILO) core labor norms. These standards are designed to protect the rights and dignity of all workers in the supply chain. GOTS has a zero-tolerance policy for child labor and forced labor. It requires fair wages that, at a minimum, meet national legal standards or industry benchmarks, with a plan to work toward a living wage. The standard also ensures a safe and hygienic working environment and prohibits any form of discrimination or harassment. Critically, it upholds the right of workers to form and join unions, providing them with a collective voice.
By adhering to these stringent GOTS criteria, People Tree provides a verifiable assurance that its products are not only organic but are also created in a manner that honors human rights and promotes a dignified life for the artisans and workers in their supply chain. This transparency and dedication have cemented People Tree's legacy as a true leader and a model for what an ethical fashion business can and should be.
