Innovation

Suspire has emerged as a trailblazer in addressing several United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) through its innovative business model. The "who" in this innovation is Suspire, led by visionary leaders committed to revolutionizing the fashion industry. The "what" encompasses a multifaceted approach, including the use of sustainable materials, a focus on circular economy principles, and a dedication to ethical sourcing. By doing so, Suspire actively contributes to SDGs related to responsible consumption and production (SDG 12), decent work and economic growth (SDG 8), and climate action (SDG 13).

The "where" of this innovation is within the fashion industry, an arena historically associated with environmental degradation and unethical practices. Suspire's unique positioning challenges this norm, showing that fashion can be a force for positive change. The "when" signifies a crucial moment in the evolution of the fashion industry, where sustainability has become a defining factor for success. Suspire's commitment to SDGs aligns with a global push towards responsible business practices and environmental stewardship.

The "how" of Suspire's innovation lies in its meticulous integration of sustainable practices throughout the entire supply chain. From utilizing eco-friendly materials to implementing circular economy principles that reduce waste, Suspire exemplifies a comprehensive approach to sustainable fashion. By prioritizing fair labor practices and ethical sourcing, the brand not only contributes to a better world but also inspires others in the industry to follow suit, showcasing how a business can thrive while actively working towards achieving the UN SDGs.

In 2020, the founders of Suspire wanted to bring about a positive change in the way the country looks at climate change. Having studied environmental sciences and witnessed ocean degradation while scuba diving convinced them that working for the environment was their calling. They aspired to sustainability and wanted to give the planet a chance to breathe, so they launched their sustainability startup and chose to name it Suspire, signaling their commitment to the cause. Suspire was originally envisioned as a vegan and sustainable apparel brand. The fashion industry was the 2nd-largest emitter of CO2, contributing to plastic pollution, water shortages, soil damage, poor labor practices, and more! Making a sustainable dent here could go a long way.

Inspiration

Interviewing the leader behind Suspire was an illuminating experience that shed light on the driving forces and inspirations shaping the company's ethos. Swayam Doshi whose passion for sustainable practices radiates through every aspect of Suspire, articulated a profound dedication to creating positive change within the fashion industry.

In response to a question about the inspiration behind Suspire's commitment to sustainability, the leader shared, "Our inspiration comes from a profound belief that fashion should not be at the expense of our planet. We wanted to challenge the status quo and prove that exquisite design can seamlessly coexist with ethical and sustainable practices." This quote underscores the leader's visionary perspective, emphasizing the rejection of the conventional notion that fashion success must compromise environmental integrity.

Further insight into the leader's motivations was unveiled when asked about the role of ethical sourcing. The response echoed a commitment to social responsibility, stating, "Ethical sourcing is not just a business strategy for us; it's a moral imperative. We believe in uplifting the communities involved in our supply chain, ensuring fair wages and working conditions. It's about creating a positive ripple effect beyond our products."

These quotes encapsulate the leader's inspiration — a fusion of challenging industry norms, a deep-seated belief in environmental responsibility, and a commitment to social equity. The leader's words reflect a passion for weaving sustainability into the fabric of Suspire's identity, inspiring a brand and a movement towards conscientious and compassionate business practices.

Overall impact

Suspire's innovative approach to sustainable fashion has had both short-term and long-term effects, reshaping the industry landscape in profound ways. In the short term, the brand's commitment to using eco-friendly materials and embracing circular economy principles has sparked a noticeable shift in consumer awareness and preferences. The "who" in this transformation includes a growing community of conscious consumers who prioritize sustainability. The evidence of this impact is reflected in the increased demand for Suspire's products and a broader trend within the fashion industry where consumers are now seeking out brands with similar values.

In the long term, Suspire's innovation has contributed to a more sustainable and responsible fashion ecosystem. The "what" in this context involves a reduction in the fashion industry's environmental footprint, evidenced by a decrease in overall waste and the adoption of eco-friendly practices by other players in the market. The lasting impact is also seen in the industry's acknowledgement of the importance of ethical sourcing and fair labour practices. This has resulted in collaborations and partnerships between Suspire and other brands, creating a network of businesses committed to positive environmental and social impact.

The "when" and "where" of Suspire's impact have unfolded gradually over the years, gaining momentum as sustainability became a central theme in global conversations. The "how" encompasses Suspire's strategic communication of its sustainability initiatives, influencing consumer behaviour and inspiring other fashion brands to reassess their practices. Suspire's innovation has demonstrated that a commitment to sustainability is not just a trend but a transformative force with enduring effects on the industry's practices and values.

Business benefit

Because Suspire prioritized sustainable and ethical practices in the fashion industry, several positive outcomes have transpired. One significant impact lies in the revenue raised by the brand. By aligning its business model with eco-friendly and ethical principles, Suspire has resonated with a growing market of conscious consumers. This has not only bolstered the brand's financial success but has also demonstrated that profitability and sustainability can coexist harmoniously, challenging the notion that environmental responsibility comes at the expense of economic growth.

Although not profitable currently, Suspire's commitment to sustainability has resulted in the creation of meaningful employment opportunities. The brand's growth has necessitated an expansion of its workforce, contributing to the well-being of individuals and families. The increased hiring showcases that ethical business practices not only benefit the environment but also foster economic development and job creation.

Furthermore, Suspire's focus on employee well-being and ethical sourcing has led to improved retention rates. The positive workplace culture and the alignment of values between employees and the company's mission have created a sense of purpose and fulfillment. This, in turn, has contributed to a more engaged and committed workforce, fostering an environment where employees feel valued and connected to the brand's larger mission. Overall, Suspire's strategic decisions have not only positioned it as a leader in sustainable fashion but have also created a ripple effect of positive impacts, touching on revenue, employment, and employee satisfaction.

Social and environmental benefit

Suspire, the sustainable fashion brand, stands at the forefront of transformative change in the industry. Led by visionary leaders, Suspire has redefined the "who" in fashion by becoming a trailblazer committed to addressing global challenges. They use a comprehensive sustainability strategy, from the use of eco-friendly materials to the incorporation of circular economy principles and a focus on ethical sourcing. This commitment positions Suspire as a beacon for responsible consumption and production, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) for a better world.

Innovation is related to the fashion industry, traditionally associated with environmental concerns and ethical dilemmas. Suspire challenges this status quo, proving that fashion can catalyze positive change. Such positive practices have led to a pivotal moment in the evolution of the fashion industry, where sustainability has shifted from a niche concern to a mainstream imperative. Suspire's emergence as a sustainable force mirrors the broader zeitgeist calling for responsible business practices. "All brands on Suspire are Indian brands, and we are very proud to promote Indian brands", shared Mr Doshi. Suspire believes in promoting promote the skill and craft of Indian artisans through its marketplace.

The "how" of Suspire's innovation lies in its meticulous approach to every aspect of its business. From designing eco-conscious products to implementing circular supply chain practices, Suspire is reshaping the industry's landscape. We got to know that Suspire works with brands that use long-lasting, natural, and sustainable materials such as hemp, tencel, linen, bamboo fabric, and piñatex — which are 100% biodegradable. Through the carefully selected brands in their marketplace, they want to promote sustainable ways to live, dress, and express. Cosmetics listed on their website are always cruelty-free and vegan. Indian e-commerce packaging waste is a huge challenge, and Suspire ensures that its packaging is 100% biodegradable in order to reduce harm to the environment.

In response to one of our questions, Mr Doshi expressed that "Today, there is a lot of discussion around the need of the hour, and climate change is affecting all of us. I am confident that things will change if we take care of our lifestyle. So we all need to start. It's never too late. It's not a trend for us, and we want to shift towards a more sustainable and mindful lifestyle". By integrating sustainability into its core values, Suspire pioneers a new era in fashion and sets a precedent for other businesses to follow. Suspire catalyses positive change, showcasing how businesses can thrive while contributing to a more sustainable and equitable world.

Interview

Swayam Doshi, Co-founder

Watch video