Devon Entrepreneur Launches Eco-Conscious Beachwear Brand
A Devon-based entrepreneur has recently introduced an eco-conscious fashion brand aimed at addressing the recycling challenges in the fashion industry.
Marc Astley, a former journalist and founder of Astley Media (now Program), launched SeaSurf, a beachwear brand based in Ottery St Mary, in June 2023. The brand prides itself on using 100% organic cotton for its garments, which are manufactured in factories powered by renewable energy. Additionally, all the prints are created using eco-friendly water-based ink and can be returned to SeaSurf for recycling into new items.
The inspiration for SeaSurf came from Mr. Astley and his partner, Laura Bond, after their children started asking questions about the environmental impact of discarded clothing. Mr. Astley stated, “We struggled to find a brand that met all our criteria, so we decided to launch our own. However, it was primarily driven by our four children. They began questioning what happened to their clothes after they were done with them, what they were made of, and why they often ended up in plastic bags. The more we contemplated this, the more we felt compelled to be part of the solution rather than the problem.”
The family discovered that less than 1% of the world’s clothing is currently recycled, and the fashion industry ranks fourth in terms of negative environmental impact, trailing behind housing, transportation, and food.
Since its launch, SeaSurf has already made a significant impact. The brand has saved 23,036g of plastic, including 2,287g from using plastic-free packaging – equivalent to 1,101 plastic bottles. Furthermore, SeaSurf has diverted 1,750g of organic material from landfills, preventing 36,150g of CO2 emissions, and saved 22 thousand liters of water.
SeaSurf operates as an online store, shipping its products internationally. Mr. Astley has announced plans to set up a pop-up store in Sidmouth at the end of August, with potential expansion across the region.
David Haze, a nine-time world record stand-up paddleboarder from Dorset, recently honored as Ocean Activist of the Year by Surfers Against Sewage at its Plastic Free awards, has joined forces with SeaSurf. Haze, 38, has pledged his support to assist the fledgling business in its fight against waste.
As sustainability continues to gain prominence, SeaSurf’s eco-conscious approach to beachwear is likely to resonate with consumers seeking fashionable yet environmentally responsible options. With its commitment to recycling, renewable energy, and ethical manufacturing, SeaSurf is poised to make a positive impact in the fashion industry while offering stylish and sustainable choices for beachgoers worldwide.
