Sustainability Scoop: Responsible Fabrication

Kent Denver is committed to leading the way in environmental sustainability, and each month, we celebrate this by highlighting different initiatives on campus. This month, we explore lessons in fast fashion and ethical consumption.

Upper School students in Molly Callaway’s Principles of Sustainable Development elective recently visited American Made Apparel Manufacturing (AMAM) to learn about their sustainable fabrication processes, which include custom cutting, sewing and apparel manufacturing. Students explored the value of local, U.S.-based production, which significantly reduces the carbon footprint associated with fast fashion manufacturing and overseas shipping—an industry that ranks as the second-largest producers of greenhouse gas with 10% of global CO2 emissions.

Three Upper School students—Morgan L. ‘25, Victoria S. ‘25 and Lucy J. '26—are currently pursuing independent studies in sustainable fabrication. This field trip provided them with an opportunity to deepen their understanding of the fabrication process and explore how brands and manufacturers can implement greener solutions. As part of their studies, they are learning how to sew and manufacture clothing using recycled materials and repurposed fabrics. With 18- to 24-year-olds being the largest consumers of fast fashion, Kent Denver is also incorporating education on responsible fabrication and sustainable shopping habits into various Upper School and Middle School sustainability seminars.

Interested in learning more about the sustainability practices of your favorite brands and retailers? Check out The Good Shopping Guide and Good On You.

Have questions about Sustainability at Kent Denver? Don’t hesitate to reach out to Innovation Associate Molly Callaway. And stay tuned for monthly Sustainability Scoop highlights in future issues of Connection!