In honor of Earth Day being this month, we asked Uscape some questions about their business's sustainability practices. Uscape is a college apparel brand that specializes in creating lasting quality goods that also make a positive impact on the environment.
Tell me the story of how and why USCAPE came to be.
USCAPE was established in 2013 when brother and sister, Alex and Emily Nowlin started making apparel for their college, Bucknell University. Their goal was to create apparel that resonated with them and what they wanted to wear. Rather than creating college gear with a logo across the chest, they focused on authentic designs that truly resonated with the university community. USCAPE was created to celebrate experiences and its mission is to craft timeless styles that capture the spirit and energy of your school. From what started as a project they completed in their undergrad time at Bucknell has now grown to a brand that is in 500+ universities across the country.
What is 1% for the planet? What does USCAPE’s participation in 1% look like?
1% for the Planet is a global network with thousands of businesses and environmental organizations working together to support people and the planet. 1% for the Planet members commit to donating at least 1% of annual sales directly to environmental organizations. The organization was founded on the idea that a company has a responsibility to give back for use of our planet’s resources.
USCAPE has been a 1% for the Planet member since the beginning of 2023. During that time USCAPE has had the opportunity to volunteer with and donate to environmental organizations working to support people and the planet. USCAPE has worked with groups local to them in the Orange County region like The Ecology Center and groups abroad like drip by drip.
Walk me through some key points in your manufacturing process; what makes this process sustainable?
The Renew collection is a 100% recycled merchandise collection by USCAPE. Renew products are crafted from excess fabric scraps to create recycled materials. Our factory partner in India works with a network of apparel factories in the region to collect excess fabric scraps, sort them by color, then use that material to create the recycled fabric.
Our sustainable process uses 98% less water compared to traditional manufacturing methods, diverting textile waste away from landfills. Please CLICK HERE to watch our latest short film about the Renew manufacturing process, USCAPE, and our efforts toward more sustainable practices.
What is your design inspiration? How does the goal of sustainability play a role in this part of the production process?
USCAPE’s design inspiration comes in multiple ways. Our artwork that is featured on the apparel is inspired by the spirit, landmarks, and unique elements of your school.
USCAPE’s definition of “sustainability” in apparel manufacturing is to use the least amount of resources possible to create a quality product.
Our styles are inspired and crafted to be timeless, of high quality, and to use better sources of materials. We design our apparel with the intent that it will be worn then be passed down to others.
Looking to the future, what environmentally conscious goals does USCAPE hope to achieve in the next 5 years?
Over the next 5-10 years, USCAPE will continuously work implement more sustainable practices. We hope that this journey of being a more sustainable brand includes continued education, conversations with stakeholders, and innovation of manufacturing materials. One quantitative goal of USCAPE is that 75% or more of our brand sales in products made using sustainable materials by 2030.