Hemp could revolutionize the fashion industry for a greener planet
Marta Vinhas, an industry veteran with over 18 years of experience in the textile sector, is on a mission to revolutionize the fashion industry by prioritizing sustainability. Recognizing the detrimental impact of the fashion industry on the planet, Marta has turned to hemp as a solution. Through her brand Sensihemp, she is reintroducing hemp to Portugal, combining design and innovation to create eco-friendly clothing and accessories.
The fashion industry is notorious for its pollution and harmful practices. It contributes 4% of greenhouse gas emissions and 20% of industrial water pollution worldwide. Sensihemp aims to build an innovative ecosystem within the textile industry by rethinking the way clothes are designed, made, and consumed. The brand offers a wide range of products, including textiles, cosmetics, and footwear, all based on hemp fibers.
Sensihemp takes pride in working locally and preserving traditional techniques. Marta collaborates with Portuguese craftsmen and seamstresses, reducing the carbon footprint and promoting a circular economy. The brand employs low-impact methods like natural dyeing, using plants, roots, and minerals, to avoid harmful chemicals and minimize water usage. Hemp plays a crucial role in combating climate change. Its cultivation regenerates soil, absorbs carbon dioxide, and requires no herbicides or pesticides. Compared to other natural fibers, hemp produces a higher yield per hectare. However, implementing hemp on a large scale requires technological advancements and careful evaluation of its environmental impact.
Marta's dedication to sustainability and innovation has earned Sensihemp recognition on the global stage. The brand received an international award for its 'Onion Plus' T-Shirt, which is dyed using onion skins. Sensihemp was also selected for the Worth Partnership Project of the European Commission and showcased at Milan Design Week.
As the fashion industry faces increasing scrutiny, movements like Fashion Revolution have emerged to demand a safer, fairer, and more transparent industry. The movement was born out of the Rana Plaza disaster in Bangladesh in 2013, where thousands of workers lost their lives due to unsafe working conditions. Fashion Revolution strives to influence policies and hold brands accountable for their labor and environmental practices.
Sensihemp, under the visionary leadership of Marta Vinhas, represents a new wave of sustainable fashion. By embracing hemp and promoting ethical practices, Sensihemp is leading the way towards a greener and more responsible fashion industry. Marta's mission to rethink the entire process of clothing design, production, and consumption inspires us to consider the impact of our fashion choices and work towards a better future.
