www.GreenGlamourWorld.com
Issue 01GGW
Ethical Luxury Magazine
LUXURY
ECO-TRAVEL
Luxury Lodges
Committed to Positive
Impact Tourism
CIRCULAR
FASHION’S
GLAMOUR
The delicate balance
and connection
between the textile
industry and human
ecosystems
PLASTIC
FASHION
KILLS
The 11 year-old girl who
shares her dream future,
and the Dream Team
behind her
NOVA’S
DREAM
Green Glamour World
Harmful metals,
health risks, and
the environmental
fallout of fast fashion
accessories
TOXIC
BLING
BLING
Fashion Designers
leading the loop
M A G A Z I N E
11
Brigitte Perreault |
Founder &
Editor-In-Chief
A New Era
Reshaping Luxury
for a Sustainable
Future.
En Force.
subscribe to GGW
24
Fashion Designers Leading The Loop
Luxury Lodges Positive Impact
Key Principles of Sustainable Fashion
Plastic Fashion Kills
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Nova’s Dream For Change
The Circularity Of Life
Toxic Bling Bling
30
10
52
58
64
38
68
© 2025 Green Glamour World. All rights reserved.
No part of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any
form or by any means without the prior written permission of the publisher,
except in the case of brief quotations used in reviews or scholarly work.
Fashion.Travel. Lifestyle.
Eco-Consumerism. Innovative Circular Models and Solutions.
GGW
Ethical Luxury Magazine
Subscribe to GGW
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Green Glamour World
Published by Ignyte Transformational Media
Los Angeles, California
CONTRIBUTORS
CLEMENTINA MARTINEZ MASARWEH
ZOE MELO
Beyond Sustainability, Design for Social & Environmental Impact
Worldwide, TOUCH Founder, Zoe develops markets and promotes
social and sustainable projects. TEDx Keynote Speaker Amazonia,
creative director of TEDx BeloHorizonte. Bio
Clementina Martinez-Masarweh is an innovative, circular, upcycler /
trashion fashion designer, climate artist, public speaker, mentor and
award-winning filmmaker. Clementina’s work tackles textile waste,
diversity, and plastic pollution. With 20+ years in fashion, she shifted
from fast fashion to sustainability. Bio
KEN MARI
Want to join our team?
or Advertise?
Contact: chloe@greenglamourworld.com
Suggestions/Advertorials: bri@greenglamourworld.com
Passionate about education, circularity, social entrepreneurship and
trends, Ken is starting as a writer for what matters, and for GGW
Magazine.
PARTNERS
GGW
FASHION
Designers
LEADING THE LOOP
Justin Haynes
Andrea Zimits
10
DESIGNERS
Francisco Alcazar
Megla Rózsa
11
ANDREA ZIMITS
I am Andrea Zimits, the creator behind
my own brand and a clothing designer
for over two decades. Deeply committed
to slow fashion, I handle every step of the
process myself, striving for perfection in
each piece.
Since 1996, I’ve been crafting handmade,
one-of-a-kind collections. My designs
fuse modern trends with vintage charm
—playful, colorful, and inspired by nature
and art.
Andrea Zimits' sewing shop is like a fairy
tale shop, in which she herself, like a
fairy, conjures harmony from a pile of
materials that can be described as chaos
for others. She is able to sew together
types of materials and colors that are not
compatible even according to laymen.
This is what makes her clothes so special.
"I work with noble materials,
antique accessories, and
upcycled garments."
Andrea
Zimits’
distinctly
feminine
creations are more than garments—they
are one-of-a-kind works of art. Each
piece reflects her soul as an applied artist
and carries the unique story of the
materials she thoughtfully selects. No
two designs are ever the same. While
some may resemble each other, every
item varies in color, cut, and—most
importantly—fabric.
Even her monochromatic pieces hold
depth and nuance, crafted from multiple
shades of a single hue to create richness
and subtle variation. Every garment is
born from careful curation and deep
inner inspiration, making her work as
expressive as it is timeless.
Life A Fairy
12
A distinguished designer, renowned for his
custom-made,
ready-to-wear,
couture
clothing, and bridal wear. Each piece is
meticulously
crafted
according
to
the
customer's precise measurements, ensuring
a unique and exclusive experience.
His
designs
have
been
worn
by
esteemed celebrities like Kelly Ripa, Nick
Cannon, Angela Yee, Melissa McCarthy,
Brianna Roy (Disney’s Raven’s Home),
and many more. With gratitude for the
unwavering support of his family, friends,
and fans, Haynes continues to live his
mission.
Internationally acclaimed and newly elected
Vice Chair of the Tokyo Fashion Council,
Justin Haynes, founder of JUS10H, is a
prominent force in the fashion industry.
Renowned
for
his
vibrant,
retro-chic
collections for men, women, and children,
Haynes masterfully combines bold colors,
striking patterns, and refined patchwork to
create a distinctive style that is instantly
recognizable and highly sought after by
celebrities and tastemakers alike.
Haynes launched JUS10H after declining a
corporate promotion, opting instead to
pursue his passion. Rooted in Springfield,
Massachusetts—a locale where such bold
career moves are uncommon—he made
history as the first local designer to present
at major fashion weeks worldwide, including
Paris, New York, LA, Milan, Miami, Dubai, and
Aspara.
Designer/Tailor of JUS10H
Bringing Fashion To Your Everyday Life
IG: @theofficialjus10h
www.Jus10H.com
“Bringing fashion to your
everyday life”—with
heart, authenticity, and
fearless creativity.
JUSTIN HAYNES
16
NAVONA Fashion
Megla is the founder and designer of
NAVONA
fashion,
committed
to
sustainable fashion, whose clothes are
worn by stars on the covers of more than
80 magazines.
"The NAVONA woman is light,
chic, irresistible.
I design the clothes for them."
We are passionate about the use of
natural and special materials, which is
coupled with a unique design. In the
NAVONA
salon,
classic
and
trendy
clothes are made every season. Our
collections consist of unique clothes,
from
which
we
choose
the
most
beautiful together. On order, we make
special, personalized clothes according
to the occasion.
We Women like to wear clothes that are
unique, special, irresistible, so that we
can pocket appreciative glances!
With a uniquely designed dress suitable
for the occasion, we help you create a
stylish outfit that suits the occasion
based on your ideas.
*Magazine Cover Image by Navona
NAVONA is the Art of
Elegance
MEGLA ROZSA
20
When I go to a secondhand shop, all the
clothes there are mixed up. You have the
power to choose — there is no trend,
there is no fashion. And the good thing is
it’s hard because you have to deal with
your inner ‘what you actually like.
Ethically + Locally Made
UPCYCLING,
ZERO WASTE,
AND THE POWER TO
CHOOSE.
What I like about upcycling is the
freedom that it gives you. When you’re
upcycling, you actually remix, rework,
reuse. And in the process of doing that,
the power is back to you.
Designed, cut, and sewn in my studio
with care and intention.
Reimagined from handwoven strips of
discarded denim and office shirts, this
one-of-a-kind jacket transforms waste
into wearable art.
FRANCISCO ALCAZAR
24
CIRCULAR FASHION COMPETITION. #GSFW.
CREATIVITY. CONSCIOUSNESS. COOPERATION.
We need to reimagine and rebuild our
world based on this understanding.
All our social and environmental problems are
driven by our worldview. And it is clearly not
working. We need another view of the world
and ourselves if we are to live sustainably: a
worldview that sustains us, the web of life, and
the planet. I believe that this worldview is
Circular and Systemic because that is how life
is. This shift becomes the basis for living life in
a sustainable manner.
Unlocking economic
opportunities and fostering
innovation
So in order to make this shift, we need to
practice Self-Circularity in order to take life
experiences to the next level.
Awareness of circularity continues to grow, yet
global circularity is in decline. This is a stark
reminder that action must be swift and
decisive. There is perhaps a silver lining?
The circular economy must no longer be a
side conversation; it should sit at the core of
every
CEO’s
agenda.
Adopting
circular
solutions is vital to ensure resilience amid
climate turmoil, resource shortages, and
economic volatility.
by Zoë Melo
Circular
fashion
significantly
reduces
environmental impact, conserves resources,
and
promotes
sustainability,
while
also
offering economic benefits and creating new
business opportunities. By extending the
lifespan of garments, reducing waste, and
encouraging innovative design strategies,
circular fashion helps address the urgent
challenges of the fashion industry.
The
Circularity
of
Life
30
The surge in textile waste
While
the
public
sector
and
financial
institutions play a vital enabling role, more
companies are recognizing the need to
rethink how they design products, source
materials, and close the loop on their waste
streams.
These
changes
are
crucial
to
achieving a genuinely circular economy.
The continuous cycle of overproduction and
overconsumption within a linear system is
fueled by aggressive marketing, omnipresent
advertising, and the persuasive power of
influencers.
This creates a culture of impulsive purchasing,
enticing consumers with the allure of low
prices and the promise of bolstering their
sense
of
personal
identity
and
social
acceptance. The linear model significantly
contributes to textile waste by encouraging
the disposal of clothing and footwear after
minimal
use
or
when
trends
shift.
Consequently, these items often end up in
landfills, get incinerated, or are sent to
developing nations, resulting in numerous
environmental and social complications.
Overproduction and Overconsumption
Recognizing the pressing threat of limited
resources and growing consumer concerns
about environmental and social impacts, the
fashion industry is shifting towards a circular
economy and I am very optimistic that more
successful initiatives like Green Glamour
World will follow, supporting visionary fashion
designers and business leaders to transform
and become future-proof.
Becoming Future-Proof
31
GGW
Supporting
Reforestation
Projects Around
The World.
Contribute
to a Healthier
Planet
For Future
Generations.
evertreen
IMPACT
Since 2009, we’ve worked at the
intersection of nature conservation
and responsible tourism.
Our membership organisation is rooted in the
vision that tourism can create lasting prosperity
for people living on a healthy, resilient planet.
We support a global community of over 80
changemakers, from lodges to tour operators
and agents, dedicated to accelerating positive
impact through the 4C framework which combines
Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce.
ADVERTISEMENT
Since 2009, we’ve worked at the
intersection of nature conservation
and responsible tourism.
Our membership organisation is rooted in the
vision that tourism can create lasting prosperity
for people living on a healthy, resilient planet.
We support a global community of over 80
changemakers, from lodges to tour operators
and agents, dedicated to accelerating positive
impact through the 4C framework which combines
Conservation, Community, Culture and Commerce.
CIRCULAR TRAVEL
Luxury Lodges
COMMITTED TO
POSITIVE TOURISM
Borana
Nikoi
38
VISIONARIES
Grootbos
39
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Western Cape, South Africa
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, set
amidst mountains, ancient indigenous
forest overlooks the rich marine haven of
Walker Bay. Grootbos is located in a world
biodiversity hotspot, where many of the
plants are of conservation concern and as
many as 70% are found nowhere else on
Earth.
Grootbos,
together
with
the
Grootbos Foundation, is committed to the
conservation of the Cape Floral Kingdom
and the upliftment of the communities
therein,
representing
an
inclusive
progressive
tourism
model.
Grootbos
Private Nature Reserve is a certified Global
Ecosphere Retreat®.
Grootbos and the Grootbos Foundation
together address the urgent threats to
conserve the unique biodiversity of the
Cape Floristic Kingdom and support the
surrounding
rural
communities
with
initiatives focused on educating, training,
mentoring and empowering community
members
and
specifically
community
youth. These programmes reach over 3000
people each year. Sustainability is a guiding
principle applied throughout Grootbos and
includes stringent measures to address
resource efficiency. These efforts are
captured in the carbon, water footprint
monitoring and sustainability reporting
Grootbos applies to track and strive how to
continuously improve their efficiencies. As
part of the Grootbos carbon footprint
recordings and practices, each guest stay at
Grootbos is offset.
Grootbos is set amongst the rare Cape
fynbos and offers expansive views over
Walker Bay and the surrounding natural
landscape.
40
For more information visit:
www.grootbos.com
Grootbos’ Highlights
The Grootbos Foundation’s Conservation
Research Unit surveys biodiversity of the
unique Cape fynbos ecosystem, using their
knowledge to inform Land management
plans in the greater landscape.
Grootbos celebrates the natural
landscape, coastline, forests, and
mountains, to create a deep sense of
natural space.
Flower Safari – Guest at Grootbos enjoy
your guided flowers in which their guide
shares the magic of plants and pollinators.
Fine, wining and dining overlooking the
pristine fynbos landscape and the
spectacle that is Walker bay, home to visit
visiting Southern Right whales between
June and October.
41
BORANA LODGE
Laikipia, Kemya, East Africa
In the heart of Kenya’s Borana Conservancy,
not only does Borana Lodge offer sweeping
views of the 32,000 conservation area, it
also acts as one of its main economic
drivers. Each memorable getaway here
contributes to the sustainable conservation
of Borana’s landscape wildlife and building
local livelihoods. Borana Lodge is a certified
Global Ecosphere Retreat®.
With just six hillside cottages, Borana Lodge
champions a beyond-the-traditional-game-
drive approach. Guests are given a behind-
the-scenes
understanding
of
how
successful wildlife conservation area is run
through thrilling and authentic experiences
such as riding in the wild and bush walks.
Revenue contributes to core operational
costs, including a mobile clinic, training and
welfare for Borana’s 13-strong team of
rangers, and education, water safety, and
livestock programmes. This allows the
conservancy to continue on its sustainable
and regenerative journey and to secure the
integrity of Borana’s ecosystem in the
future.
44
For more information visit:
www.borana.co
Borana’s Highlights
Profits generated by Borana Lodge are
invested in the core operational costs of
Borana Conservancy, allowing them to
continue on their truly sustainable and
regenerative journey, securing
conservation integrity, well into the future.
Borana Lodge guests are given the
opportunity to join the conservancy
Rangers tracking rhinos on each morning
and learn more about the ‘behind-the-
scenes’ work that goes into the
conservancy, how they track and identify
rhino and take the time to meet the team
that keep the rhino safe.
Borana Lodge offers horse riding safaris
across the conservancy for all levels of
writing experience. It is one of the most
unique ways to experience wildlife
at close quarters.
45
M A G A Z I N E
19
NIKOI ISLAND
Bintan, Indonesia
Two and a half hours from Singapore, in
Indonesia’s picturesque Riau archipelago,
this 37-acre private island resort has
championed a nature and community-
focused approach since being opened by
co-owner Andrew Dixon in 2007.
With the conservation and regeneration of
Nikoi’s natural environment at its heart,
two-thirds of the island’s banyan-filled
rainforest and sandy beaches remain
untouched, and non-native plants have
been
removed
to
allow
indigenous
vegetation to flourish. Involvement of, and
benefits for nearby communities form an
important part of Nikoi’s DNA, with the
property
providing
employment
and
training for over 200 local staff.
Protecting the diverse waters it sits in by
helping
to
establish
a
vast
Marine
Protected Area, supporting the education
of
thousands
of
children,
and
commitment
to
sustainably
focused
architecture and operations have all helped
establish the 37-acre private island Nikoi as
one of South East Asia’s leading sustainable
getaways. Nikoi Private Island is a certified
Global Ecosphere Retreat®.
48
Restaurant produce comes fresh from
Nikoi’s farm, or sourced from nearby
markets, and visitor activities include back
of house tours which delve into behind-the-
scenes sustainability measures, and
thrilling, conservation-slanted nature walks.
For more information visit:
www.nikoi.com
Nikoi’s Highlights
Showing a deep commitment to preserving
traditional cultures, Nikoi’s Ubah Rumah
on-site studio has, since 2023, offered
residencies for Southeast Asian, creative,
and researchers whose work is dedicated
to raising awareness of threatened
cultures, communities, and ecosystems.
Guest accommodations, 15 villas, has been
built by local tradespeople in sustainably-
sourced, driftwood and alang-alang grass,
offering a contemporary take on traditional
Indonesian structures, they’re cooled by
nature, airflow, and water is heated via
solar panels.
49
Nova
In a time when young voices are rising to
meet global challenges, Nova stands as a
shining example of courage, creativity, and
conviction. Her story reminds us that no one is
too young to make a difference—and that
sometimes, the most inspiring messages
come from the hearts of children determined
to heal the world.
At just 11 years old, Nova is already making
waves as a passionate advocate for her
generation and the planet’s future. With a
wisdom and clarity well beyond her years, she
understands the urgency of the climate crisis
and the responsibility we all share to protect
the Earth. Inspired by the beauty of nature
and driven by a deep sense of empathy, she’s
using her voice—both literally and figuratively
—to spark awareness and action.
Her latest creation, a heartfelt original song
titled “Change,” is a powerful anthem calling
for environmental responsibility and collective
transformation.
Through
her
lyrics,
she
expresses the concerns of many young people
today: fear for the planet, frustration with
inaction, and hope for a better, greener future.
But what sets her apart is her unwavering
belief that change is possible—and that it
starts with each of us.
The 11 year-old’s dream future,
her ‘Change’ music video,
and her Dream Team.
by Brigitte Perreault
“If I had
a magic
wand...”
52
Q: Can you tell us what first made you
care so deeply about the planet and
people your age?
If I had a magic wand, I would use it to spread
awareness to everyone. Because even if we
manage to save the planet now, if people don’t
truly understand the impact of their actions,
future generations might end up repeating the
same mistakes—and we’ll be right back where
we started. I want to live in a world where
people understand how their choices affect the
Earth, so that we can protect it not just for now,
but for the future too.
I think it started a long time ago—I’ve always
loved being around nature and the animals
that live in it, but I was taught that the world
was dying because of the harmful actions
humans are making. I never liked the idea of all
the
wonders
Earth
has
to
offer
just
disappearing because of what we’re doing to it.
Knowing this made me really want to create
music that spreads awareness about the issue.
But what really opened my eyes was realizing
how much harm this damage causes—not just
to nature, but to people too. The LA fires that
interrupted daily life, the floods that keep
getting worse... It made me see how deeply it
all affects everyone and everything on this
planet. That was when I decided to use my
voice to convince people to change by helping
protect our planet instead of harming it.
Q: If you had a magic wand and
could change just one thing to
make the Earth healthier and
safer for kids like you, what would
you change first—and why?
I try to stay mindful of the small choices I make
—like conserving water, using reusable bottles,
and supporting fashion designers who use
upcycled or organic materials. Before I use
anything, I ask myself: what kind of impact will
this have on the Earth? I carry that mindset
into my music too by writing songs that raise
awareness. I also make an effort to talk to my
friends and family about it, because it’s
important they understand how even small
actions can help protect our planet.
It’s a world where everyone feels safe and
healthy- a place where people can enjoy fresh
air, clean water, and oceans full of life, not
plastic. Where animals roam freely, and forests
grow tall and strong. It’s a world where people
are mindful of their actions, choosing to
protect the Earth instead of harming it -a
place where nature is valued, and its beauty is
truly cherished.
Q: What are some things you do every
day—big or small—to help the planet?
And how do you try to get your friends
or family involved?
Q: Close your eyes and imagine your
dream future—what does that world
look like for young people, animals,
and the Earth?
Bayou Benett, Nova, Brigitte Perreault
53
Q: If all the leaders of the world were
listening to you right now, what would
you want to say to them about taking
care of the planet and protecting kids’
futures?
If every world leader could hear me right now,
I’d urge them to take responsibility for our
planet’s future—not just through promises, but
through action. The decisions you make today
shape
the
world
that
we—and
future
generations—will grow up in. Protect the
planet, listen to young voices, and spread
awareness about the growing issue. Because
change isn’t something we can wait for—we
need it now.
CHANGE
Music Video
The Dream Team:
Bayou Benett and Daniel Lir
Two of the most exciting directors, devoted to make a
difference and have an impact, husband and wife
filmmaker duo Bayou Bennett and Daniel Lir
founded Dream Team Directors in 2007.
Bayou Benett, Nova, Daniel Lir
Credits: Singer/Songwriter/Melody: Nova | Music Video Directed By: Dream Team Productions
Music Vocal Production: Chris Garcia (credits include - Adele, Lana Del Rey) | Music Production: Killian Cruiser
Cinematography By: Cole Mccarthy | Executive Producer: Udhayam Foundation
54
We’re Bayou Bennett and Daniel Lir—partners
in life and filmmaking—behind Dream Team
Directors. Over the past decade, we’ve directed
award-winning content for brands, music
artists, and changemakers who use their voice
to push the world forward.
We’re especially inspired by Gen Z. They’re
bold, creative, and they care—about justice,
sustainability, and truth. We see ourselves as
visual translators for this generation’s values,
creating stories that reflect their passions and
help ignite meaningful conversations.
Q: Who is The Dream Team
Directors, and what drives your
commitment and passion for Gen Z?
Nova’s song “Change” felt like a cinematic
journey from the start. The lyrics speak to
personal
and
global
transformation—
something that aligns perfectly with our
mission as filmmakers.
We brought her vision to life through a poetic
fashion story, styling Nova in upcycled, eco-
conscious fashion by local designers. Every look
was intentional, reflecting the song’s message
of evolution, beauty, and sustainability. We
placed her in natural landscapes to show the
deep connection between our inner world and
the planet. The result is a film that’s both raw
and uplifting—a perfect blend of sound, style,
and purpose.
One
of
our
most
recent
projects
is
“Connection”, an environmental fashion film
shot across three continents using our Global
Cinema model. It stars Balmain model Berite
Labelle and explores how every choice we
make—whether with fashion, energy, or daily
habits—affects
communities
around
the
world. The film continues to win awards
internationally
and
has
become
conversation-starter
around
eco-activism
through art.
We also had the privilege of helping Michelle
Pfeiffer launch her ingredient-transparent,
clean
fragrance
brand—another
step
in
aligning storytelling with sustainability. Right
now,
we’re
completing
a
new
impact
documentary and preparing for more global
collaborations that spotlight unheard voices
and conscious creatives.
You can follow our journey on Instagram
@dreamteamdirectors
or
reach
out
via
www.dreamteamdirectors.com
For us, storytelling isn’t just art—it’s activism.
Q: What are some of your upcoming
projects, and how can you be
reached?
Inside the Vision of
The Dream Team Directors:
Filmmaking with Purpose
for the Next Generation.
Q: What was the process of taking
Nova’s lyrics and turning them into
an eco-fashion film story?
Bayou Benett, Cole McCarthy, Daniel Lir
55
In the quiet corners of college labs and under
the lens of a microscope, I’ve uncovered an
alarming truth: the fashion industry is not just
a climate crisis contributor—it’s a public health
hazard.
My
journey
exploring
how
microplastics from textiles affect human health
has led to unique collaborations with students
and faculty across U.S. campuses. I’ve seen
firsthand how fashion’s toxic trail winds its way
into our oceans, our bodies, and even our DNA.
As a quantum physics geek and lifelong
science lover passionate about health and the
environment, I launched DNA Sustainable
Threds—a name that combines my passions
and my kids’ initials. Fashion has always pulled
me in, and though I once worked in fast
fashion, I’ve been advocating for slow fashion
for the past 13 years. I now find myself in the
right place, with the right information, at the
right time.
My deep dive into plastic and its relationship to
fashion took a darker turn after reading a 2020
article in The Guardian, “Microplastics revealed
in the placentas of unborn babies.” The quote
that stopped me cold: “It is like having a cyborg
baby: no longer composed of human cells, but
a mixture of biological and inorganic entities.”
That was the lightbulb moment. I began
designing my own “cyborgs” out of post-
consumer
waste—plastic,
e-waste,
textiles,
discarded sports equipment, and other landfill
debris. I didn’t yet know their purpose, but I
knew the world needed to learn about the
hidden harms of plastic. Since then, I’ve
brought these creations to galleries in San
Francisco
and
Pennsylvania,
runways
in
Chicago, and now to the screen—through a
short film currently in production with LA-
based director Mariel Noir.
THE HIDDEN HEALTH COST
OF WHAT WE WEAR
by By Clementina Martinez-Masarweh
“The Sustainable Latina”
Plastic
Fashion
Kills
58
But the source wasn’t plastic bags or bottle
caps. It was clothing.
During that collaboration, I also showcased my
“trashion” cyborg designs alongside Barbara
Kavchok’s art exhibit ReFash: A Futuristic
Intersection
of
Style,
Sustainability
and
Consumption
at
the
Banana
Factory
in
Bethlehem. Artists and designers from around
the
world
contributed,
spotlighting
the
devastating
effects
of
fast
fashion—from
overproduction to toxic plastic waste. It was a
truly remarkable and affirming experience to
be a part of.
Through my education work, I’ve also taught
students to examine fabric under microscopes.
What looks like soft fleece reveals itself as a
tangled web of synthetic polymer fibers—
shedding constantly with wear and washing.
Laundry wastewater is now one of the main
sources of microplastics in our freshwater
systems. Even treatment plants can’t fully filter
out the smaller nano plastics, which are now
showing up in human lungs, placenta, breast
milk, and blood.
Early research suggests these particles can
cross the blood-brain barrier, disrupt cellular
function, and trigger immune responses. And
we wear this risk daily. We gift it to our children
in soft pajamas. We jog in it. We donate it,
thinking we’re helping—only for it to pollute
another corner of the planet.
Plastic in fashion hides in plain sight. From
glittery trims and waterproof coatings to elastic
waistbands, our clothes are filled with synthetic
materials
and
toxic
additives
like
BPA,
phthalates,
and
PFAS—so-called
“forever
chemicals” that persist in our bodies and the
environment.
These substances don’t just contaminate water
and air. They accumulate in human tissue,
disrupt
hormones,
and
are
linked
to
reproductive
issues,
cancers,
and
neurodevelopmental
delays.
Our
skin—the
body’s largest organ—is exposed daily.
One of the most sobering findings comes from
Dr.
Shanna
Swan,
environmental
epidemiologist at Mount Sinai and author of
Count Down. Her research reveals a 50% global
decline in sperm count over the past 40 years,
largely due to endocrine-disrupting chemicals
in plastics, including those in fashion. If trends
continue, sperm count could reach zero by
2045. Natural reproduction would be nearly
impossible. And fashion, once again, is part of
the problem.
A Toxic Wardrobe
The Invisible Invader:
Microplastics and Nanoplastics
In 2024, a moment that forever shifted my
understanding of textiles and microplastics
happened at Lafayette College’s Sustainability
Department in Pennsylvania. Working with
Samantha Smith and the science team, we
examined microplastics and microfibers under
microscopes. As part of a senior thesis, a
student was researching microplastic ingestion
in local bird populations—and discovered
something deeply troubling: 100% of the birds
studied had microplastic particles embedded
in their bodies.
Fashion’s Chemical Legacy
This exposure isn’t limited to consumers.
Garment workers—most of them women in the
Global South—face toxic conditions during
production, often inhaling or touching dyes,
flame retardants, and plasticizers. This is an
urgent environmental justice issue.
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When I speak to young people about textile
waste and sustainable solutions, I always
highlight how interconnected the crisis is. The
microfibers from our leggings don’t stay with
us—they travel, they accumulate, and they
damage ecosystems. Yet fast fashion continues
to market these items as “eco-friendly” or
“essentials.”
A New Story for the Future:
Cyborg Human
That interconnection inspired my short film,
Cyborg
Human:
The
Future
We
Chose,
currently in pre-production. The experimental
film imagines a future where nanoplastics alter
our biology, and humanity becomes a hybrid of
organic and synthetic life. We don’t just wear
plastic—we become it.
Debuting at NYC Climate Week 2025, Cyborg
Human blends art, science, and fashion with
original
costumes
made
from
real
post-
consumer waste. It asks: What happens when
survival—not style—drives what we wear?
Through sound, visuals, and movement, the
film conveys what scientific data alone cannot
—urgency, emotion, and possibility.
As a designer, filmmaker, and social impact
strategist, I can’t unsee what I’ve learned. I’ve
heard scientists describe analyzing lung tissue
coated in airborne fibers. I’ve worked with
students, shocked by what they find in local
wildlife. It all confirms one truth: our closets are
toxic.
But knowledge must lead to transformation.
Reimagining Fashion
Through Health
At climate events in LA, SF, and beyond—
including
Women
in
Clean
Tech
Sustainability—I’ve been advocating for circular
systems, compostable textiles, non-toxic dyes,
and the end of fossil-fuel-based fabrics. I’ve
mentored students researching biodegradable
alternatives and collaborated with scientists
developing wearable fabrics from algae, fungi,
and cellulose. These aren’t future concepts,
they’re happening now.
Fashion can be regenerative—but only if we are
willing to change everything about how it’s
made.
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And most importantly, demand more from
your wardrobe. Ask your clothes to be ethical.
To be safe. To stop harming you.
We’re standing at a crossroads. Every garment
we wear is a vote. Cyborg Human is a warning
—but also an invitation. Let’s choose better.
Let’s break up with plastic, for good.
Start by reading labels. Avoid polyester, nylon,
acrylic,
and
blends.
If
you
already
own
synthetics—as I do—wash them sparingly, use
cold water, and spot clean to reduce shedding.
Install a microplastic filter or use a Guppyfriend
bag.
Choose organic fabrics like hemp, linen, or
cotton—being mindful of chemical treatments
and water use. Support brands committed to
non-toxic processing, biodegradable materials,
and circular models.
What You Can Do
61
Harmful metals, health risks, and
the environmental fallout of fast
fashion accessories.
In the glittering world of fast fashion, cheap
jewelry
is
everywhere—lining
checkout
counters and feeding the need to accessorize
on a whim. But behind the sparkle lies a
darker reality: many of these mass-produced
accessories are laced with toxic metals,
putting human health and the environment
at risk.
tOxIc
bling bling
The Hidden Cost of Cheap Shine
What your jewelry isn’t telling you—
harmful metals, health risks, and
the environmental fallout of fast
fashion accessories
Fast fashion jewelry is designed for short-term
use. To keep production cheap, manufacturers
often rely on metals like lead, cadmium, and
nickel—substances
banned
or
heavily
restricted in many countries. These toxic
elements are hazardous not only to the
workers who handle them but also to the
people who wear them.
Fast fashion jewelry is designed for short-term
use. To keep production cheap, manufacturers
often rely on metals like lead, cadmium, and
nickel—substances
banned
or
heavily
restricted in many countries. These toxic
elements are hazardous not only to the
workers who handle them but also to the
people who wear them.
by Brigitte Perreault
Skin Deep, But Not Harmless
The
danger
isn't
just
internal.
Nickel,
commonly used in cheap jewelry, is one of the
leading causes of allergic contact dermatitis,
triggering rashes and persistent skin irritation.
With continued exposure—especially when
mixed with sweat—heavy metals can leach
into the skin and accumulate in the body over
time.
64
Why Ethical Jewelry Matters
The risks are even greater for children, who
may mouth or swallow jewelry. Small amounts
of lead or cadmium can have devastating
effects
on
a
child’s
developing
nervous
system, including irreversible damage.
The environmental toll is just as disturbing.
Metals used in fast fashion jewelry are often
mined in countries with weak regulations,
contributing to deforestation, contaminated
water, and air pollution. Toxic byproducts from
mining and refining processes seep into the
land and surrounding communities.
And once discarded, these accessories don’t
vanish. Most end up in landfills, where heavy
metals leach into soil and groundwater,
harming ecosystems and people—especially
in developing nations burdened with our
waste.
From Factory to Landfill
Thankfully, ethical jewelry brands are rising to
meet this challenge. These companies use
recycled, non-toxic, and responsibly sourced
materials, prioritize worker safety, and create
pieces
designed
to
last.
Transparency,
traceability, and fair wages are essential to this
movement, proving that jewelry can be
stunning without being harmful.
As consumers, we have power. Choose brands
that are committed to ethical practices. Look
for certifications like Fairmined, Fairtrade
Gold, or B Corp. Invest in fewer, higher-quality
pieces—and when possible, go vintage or
recycled to keep materials in circulation.
What You Can Do
Redefining Glamour
Toxic bling is more than a fashion faux pas—
it’s a health and environmental crisis. At Green
Glamour World, we believe true luxury is
rooted in responsibility. It's time to move
beyond disposable adornment and toward a
future where beauty, ethics, and sustainability
truly shine.
65
Origins of Sustainable Fashion
Sustainable fashion is a movement within the
fashion industry focused on minimizing the
environmental and social impacts of clothing
production and consumption. This approach
involves using eco-friendly materials, reducing
waste, and ensuring ethical labor practices
throughout
the
supply
chain.
It
also
encourages
slower,
more
intentional
consumer habits. The ultimate goal is to
create a fashion industry that supports
present needs without compromising the
resources or well-being of future generations.
Key Principles & Components
of Sustainable Fashion
Pinpointing the exact origins of sustainable
fashion is challenging, but its roots trace back
to the environmental consciousness that grew
in the late 20th century. The environmental
movements of the 1970s and 1980s raised
awareness about the impact of consumerism
on the planet. By the 1990s, the concept of
"slow fashion" emerged, highlighting the
importance of quality and durability over fast-
paced trends.
Sustainable
fashion
continued
to
gain
momentum in the early 2000s with initiatives
like the Global Organic Textile Standard
(GOTS). Today, sustainable fashion is a global
movement that influences how designers,
brands, and consumers approach clothing
production and consumption, with a strong
focus
on
environmental
and
social
responsibility.
by Ken Mari
Key Principles of Sustainable Fashion
Sustainable fashion integrates eco-friendly
materials,
resource
conservation,
waste
reduction (through recycling and upcycling),
and ethical labor practices across the supply
chain. It aims to counteract the harmful
impacts of conventional fashion, such as
environmental
degradation,
worker
exploitation, and high resource usage.
By promoting ethical sourcing, transparency,
and durability, sustainable fashion strives to
create a conscious, resilient industry aligned
with social and environmental sustainability.
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The Six Key Components of
Sustainable Fashion
And once discarded, these accessories don’t
vanish. Most end up in landfills, where heavy
metals leach into soil and groundwater,
harming ecosystems and people - especially
in developing nations burdened with our
waste.
Reduced Environmental Impact
Sustainable fashion prioritizes materials like
organic cotton, hemp, Tencel, and recycled
fabrics, reducing reliance on conventional,
resource-intensive options.
Eco-Friendly Materials
Fair trade and ethical treatment of workers
are core to sustainable fashion, ensuring safe
conditions,
fair
wages,
and
labor
rights
throughout
the
supply
chain.
This
commitment
helps
create
an
equitable
industry that benefits workers and society.
Ethical Sourcing
Many sustainable brands are committed to
transparency, offering consumers insights into
the sourcing, production, and environmental
impact of their products. Transparency fosters
trust
and
enables
informed
purchasing
decisions.
Transparency
Sustainable fashion promotes a shift from the
disposable nature of fast fashion, encouraging
minimalist, high-quality designs that last
through trends. This approach emphasizes
buying less and choosing items that endure.
Minimalism and Longevity
Supporting local and artisanal production
reduces the carbon footprint associated with
transportation and boosts local economies. It
also strengthens the connection between
consumers and the origins of their clothing.
Local and Artisanal Production
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