SM and Zarah Juan are weaving together sustainability and style with the launch of The Tarp Project—a line of totes and pouches made of repurposed materials
Fashion retail always had a sizable impact on the environment. Studies emphasize that the rise of fast fashion in recent years has doubled clothing production and increased consumption, generating an alarming amount of waste. And in an era where environmental degradation poses more threat than ever, people are calling for a more sustainable approach to fashion retail.
With this, SM Store takes the next step towards sustainability with its latest green initiative: The Tarp Project, in partnership with Zarah Juan. It proves that great style does not always come at the cost of the environment.
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A Cycle of Sustainability
Over the years, the SM Group has successfully launched multiple green initiatives under its Green Movement. This includes SM Green Finds, a platform for local brands, entrepreneurs, and artisans to showcase sustainably sourced, eco-friendly products. The brand’s effort towards sustainability only continues as it adopts a circular economy approach to retail, which focuses on repurposing waste materials.
For The Tarp Project, the company is releasing a line of chic tote bags and pouches. What sets the collection apart is the rather unconventional material used in making it: tarpaulins. Instead of throwing away used tarpaulins from SM Stores, The Tarp Project repurposes them to create fun tote designs. Thus, minimizing waste and lowering SM Store’s environmental impact.
Fashion with Purpose
When it comes to fashion, great pieces are those that leave a lasting impact–not just on the owner, but also on the community. The Tarp Project employs Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) in Quezon City to clean and cut the tarpaulins used in making the bags. Meanwhile, local bag artisans in Bulacan take charge of the printing and assembly of the products.
Proceeds from the sales of the tarp bags and pouches will also be donated to SM Foundation’s education projects, further highlighting the company’s dedication in advocating a cycle of empowerment and social impact.
Fashion should always go beyond mere aesthetics. It should transcend fleeting trends, featuring consciously made pieces that weave together sustainability with style. SM Green Finds x Zarah Juan’s The Tarp Project perfectly embodies this essence. It’s purposeful, creating a lasting impact on the wearer, the community, and the environment.
