Kalen and Derrick Emsley were always working to make the world a better place. The brothers and business partners were planting trees with their carbon-offsetting company long before they got into the apparel business. In fact, the main impetus for launching Tentree almost six years ago was so they could fund their true mission, planting trees all over the world and make a meaningful impact on the environment.

Launched in 2012, Tentree would follow the cause centric, one for one business model, but instead of donating a piece of clothing, Tentree would plant ten trees for every item sold. The objective was to have the kind of positive impact on environment that would long outlast the lifespan of a donated t-shirt. So the Emsley brothers, together with their friend David Luba, set out the change the world one garment and ten trees at a time with the ultimate goal of planting 1 billion trees by 2030.

Through the brand’s use of social media, Tentree has been able to build a community of over 3 million followers that are engaged with the their mission. During Earth Week, Tentree challenged their social media community with the goal of getting 5 million ‘likes’ to plant 500,000 trees in Indonesia. Blowing past that goal in 24hours, Tentree upped the ante and had set a new target of 20 million ‘likes’ for 1 million trees. With over 15 million ‘likes’, the 9^th most liked post on Instagram at the time, Tentree’s community showed the world that every person can make a difference.

But it doesn’t just start and end with trees; the company’s entire business model revolves around reducing the negative impact the apparel industry has on the environment and inspiring a generation of consumers to do the same. Tentree is transparent in everything they do, from the fibers to the fabrics to the manufacturing process; Tentree strives to produce sustainable apparel that has a low impact on the environment.

The design team at Tentree is constantly researching and developing custom fabrics using sustainably sound fibers without compromising on performance. The list of “eco materials” in Tentree’s arsenal include recycled polyester, hemp, linen, incorporating coconut shells to produce buttons and cork bark for the garment trimmings; and of course its extensive use of TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fibers. Derived from renewable wood sources and made using sustainable production processes, the cellulosic fibers are not only considered environmentally sound but are also renowned for their premium attributes. Their color retention, draping, breathability and extremely soft hand are several key properties that enhance the clothing that Tentree designs and sells.

”Together with Tentree, Lenzing has always been committed to sustainability. Through our TENCEL™ Lyocell and Modal fiber programs we are dedicated to fostering a ‘From Nature to Nature’ production cycle. With like-minded brand partners such as Tentree we can create premium fabrics from sustainable wood sources that can be treated and manufactured in a way to ensure biodegradability”, says Sharon Perez, Lenzing’s Business Development Manager for Active wear.

Tentree’s continued commitment to transparency has enabled them to challenge the apparel industry’s negative impact on the environment. Through the brand’s tree planting program, their sourcing of eco materials and partnering with socially responsible manufacturers, Tentree has been able to elevate the discussion of sustainability and inspire consumers and industry peers to do better.

Become part of the movement and shop the premium collection by Tentree by visiting www.tentree.com.