WHAT SUSTAINABILITY MEANS AT HOUNDSOME

We believe that true sustainability starts with creating products that are designed and made last. Our fabrics and materials are meticulously tested for durability and longevity, ensuring that every Houndsome product can withstand the rigours of daily use and the extra rough-and-tumble treatment by dogs. This approach not only reduces the need for frequent replacements but also minimises waste, contributing to a more sustainable future.

At Houndsome, we believe in the power of timeless design. By creating products that are stylish and classic, we ensure that they remain relevant and desirable for years to come. This reduces the cycle of fast fashion and encourages a more sustainable approach to consumption.

Natural fibres are at the heart of our products. We prioritise materials such as Merino wool, linen, and vegetable-tanned leather, which are not only renewable but also biodegradable. These natural fibres require less water and fewer chemicals to produce, making them a more sustainable choice compared to synthetic alternatives.

In our quest to reduce waste, we also utilise dead-stock fabrics — unused materials from other production lines that would otherwise end up in landfills. By giving these high-quality fabrics a second life, we create unique products and reduce the demand for new materials, further lessening our environmental impact and supporting our sustainability initiatives.

Every detail matters when it comes to sustainability. We carefully select hardware and components that are not only durable but also environmentally friendly. This includes metals with non-toxic finishes, Australian-made cotton trims, stoneware clay from central Victoria, and zips made from 99% post-consumer recycled material. Wherever possible, we ensure every part of our products aligns with our sustainability goals.

Supporting local economies is a key aspect of our sustainability strategy. All Houndsome products are proudly made in Australia, adhering to fair work policies and strict environmental protocols. This commitment not only reduces the carbon footprint associated with long-distance shipping but also supports local artisans and manufacturers, ensuring ethical labour practices and high environmental standards are maintained throughout our production process.

Our ultimate sustainability goal is to contribute to a circular economy, where resources are reused and recycled rather than discarded. To this end, we encourage our customers to recycle their Houndsome products at the end of their life cycle. We are also exploring programs to facilitate product returns and recycling, ensuring that our products have as little impact on the environment as possible. We have a current initiative with Waverley Mills where we return all offcuts and scraps from the cutting of our Merino wool sportcoats back to the factory for recycling into yarn for future production.

Our commitment to sustainability extends beyond our products to how they are packaged and displayed. We use recycled, recyclable and compostable materials for our packaging, and our displays (markets, events and pop-ups) are designed to be reusable and sustainable. The substrate used for our stand signage is Australian made from 100% recycled materials. This holistic approach ensures that every aspect of our brand minimises its environmental impact.