Off the back of our recent More Sustainable Outdoor Brands Directory launch, we’ve been delving deeper than ever into the brands that really stand out for their commitment to change. One such brand is BAM Clothing. Founded in 2006 and run in the garage of David Gordon, BAM Clothing has had sustainability at its core from day one. Now, the 70-strong team share his values and believe in the difference bamboo clothing makes to our planet.
We are a company founded on the passion to find the best the human spirit has to offer and we’re devoting ourselves to making this happen. The environment is our highest priority. It’s what we got into business for in the first place.
BAM Clothing also shares our belief that transparency is the only way forward for the clothing industry, and their team has been tirelessly mapping their supply chain to bring meaningful labelling that consumers can understand.
Transparent labelling for clothing
In 2023, outdoor brand, Rab, launched a transparent labelling system based around material facts. It’s a simple way for consumers to get a snapshot of what a product is made from, but it only touches the surface.
The new BAM product DNA labelling, however, takes things much deeper than Rab, taking consumers on a garment production journey so that they fully understand what they’re buying, how and where it was made and by whom.
How does BAM product DNA work?
Every garment comes with a QR code for you to scan. This takes you to the DNA page that’s specific to that garment where you can find information on the following:
Raw materials
- Fiber processing
- Yarn
- Fabric
- Dye and finish
- Garment
- Warehouse
This DNA page also gives you some tangible stats about the production of the garment compared with a conventionally made one:
And finally, you can find information about garment care and repair as well as what to do with the garment at the end of its life.
It’s an in depth yet concise and digestible way to understand the journey and global impact of each piece of clothing.And it’s an impressive precedent that all brands should be following.
Impact positive by 2030
The DNA project really sets BAM apart from almost all other clothing brands. But, not content with sitting back and admiring the results of their hard work that has taken them years to map out, BAM have their sights set on an even bigger goal: to be impact positive by 2030.
Our ultimate goal is to have a net positive impact on people, nature and the climate. We’re doing everything we can to achieve this by 2030.
BAM knows that this is one ambitious goal. And in the true spirit of transparency, they’re happy to admit that they’re not sure how they’ll reach it, yet. But aiming high keeps them driving forward. And based on what they’ve already managed to achieve, it’s hard to see that they won’t smash this goal!
BAM’s goals
When you break down BAM’s ultimate goal, things seem more achievable:
The “people” goal: Fair wages and treatment throughout the supply chain.
- The “nature” goal: A fully circular range which conserves natural resources, protects biodiversity, eliminates harmful pollution and closes the loop at the end of use.
- The “climate” goal: Remove more carbon from the atmosphere than the emissions we create.
If only those in places of power would approached climate change (or change of any kind!) with this level of ambition, drive and commitment?!
Top BAM picks for adventurers and outdoorsy folk
Men’s Novea Crew Neck Base Layer
Novea is a blend of bamboo viscose and Naia, a new fibre made from responsibly sourced wood pulp with a low impact processing method. The base layer is weightless, supersoft, absorbent and breathable.
73 Zero Recycled Fleece Jacket
The only fully circular fleece on the market. 100% recyclable with BAM’s partners Project Plan B. The recycled fleece is super soft and cosy, oversized and two-sided for warmth.
Technical Bamboo Walking Socks
Made from a breathable, absorbent bamboo blend with a half cushioned foot bed and elasticated rib on the ankle and instep for support.
Agallea Twill Walking Trousers
Soft, breathable and durable, these heavy weight trousers are a blend of organic cotton, bamboo viscose and elastane. They also have a Rudolf Bionic Finish Eco water-resist coating so the droplets just roll off.
