As the fashion industry continues to navigate its environmental footprint, responsible practices like regenerative agriculture are emerging as crucial solutions to mitigating the wellness, water, and climate crisis.
In celebration of Earth Month and our partnership with Kiss the Ground, Anthropologie had the honour of sitting down with Evan Harrison, CEO of Kiss the Ground, to delve into the importance of regenerative agriculture and its profound implications for our planet.
Regenerative practices intersect with the fashion industry, offering a responsible approach to sourcing materials like cotton, hemp, and wool. By utilising regenerative agriculture, we're not only supporting soil health and biodiversity, but we're also contributing to a better future for fashion.
In this exclusive interview, Evan shares his insights into the transformative power of regenerative agriculture and its potential to revolutionise fashion for the better.
CULTIVATING CHANGE
through regenerative agriculture
What makes regenerative agriculture stand out from traditional methods, and how does it make a real impact?
In simplest terms, most farming focuses on one singular crop. This approach requires chemicals and other disruptive practices that degrade the soil. Regenerative agriculture, on the other hand, is an ecosystem-based approach to enhancing soil health with multiple crops and animal integration – it's about working with nature as much as possible.
What are the long-term benefits of investing in soil regeneration practices for the environment and human health?
Our immediate focus is on achieving the 'tipping point' over the course of the next five years – gauged by increased awareness and a threefold expansion in land transitioning to regenerative practices. This is a critical moment, and the momentum is with us.
Successfully reaching the tipping point will pave the way for a future where the environment is back in balance. Picture a scenario where we cultivate nutrient-packed crops with significantly less exposure to nasty chemicals, breathe fresh air, and enjoy healthier water sources.
Successfully reaching the tipping point will pave the way for a future where the environment is back in balance. Picture a scenario where we cultivate nutrient-packed crops with significantly less exposure to nasty chemicals, breathe fresh air, and enjoy healthier water sources.
Are there specific areas or types of land that are top priority for Kiss the Ground when it comes to soil regeneration?
Our journey began in 2013, talking to anyone who would listen. When the film Kiss the Ground launched on Netflix in 2020, we had enquiries from around the world about what could be done and how people could help –so we rolled out an education course called Soil Advocate Training. Thousands of people from farms and cities across the globe participated in this training.
Naturally, as our efforts gained momentum, we started to include a policy-driven approach – government support will be a critical component. Looking ahead, we will begin planning in earnest to expand that focus outside the U.S.
Naturally, as our efforts gained momentum, we started to include a policy-driven approach – government support will be a critical component. Looking ahead, we will begin planning in earnest to expand that focus outside the U.S.
How do corporate partnerships contribute to advancing the mission of Kiss the Ground?
Partnerships play a critical role in amplifying Kiss the Ground's message. Despite regenerative agriculture's tremendous potential, this viable solution to our wellness, water, and climate crises remains unfamiliar to most. These partnerships help reach, inform, and inspire new audiences.
Ultimately, our focus is the catalyzation of acres transitioned to regenerative practices through collaboration with farmers, consultants, and strategic partners. Anthropologie is what we refer to as a '10k acre partner' which means our work together this year will lead to ten thousand acres being transitioned to regenerative practices.
Ultimately, our focus is the catalyzation of acres transitioned to regenerative practices through collaboration with farmers, consultants, and strategic partners. Anthropologie is what we refer to as a '10k acre partner' which means our work together this year will lead to ten thousand acres being transitioned to regenerative practices.
What role do you see regenerative agriculture playing in the future of the fashion industry?
Regenerative agriculture will be the much-needed catalyst for change – as ongoing discussions about conscious fashion evolve, I believe a growing number of people will grasp the indispensable role of regenerative agriculture and broad regeneration practices in ensuring the industry's long-term sustainability.
I envision genuinely authentic brands and influencers prioritising ethical practices and gaining strength. With consumers increasingly scrutinising labels and doing their homework, these leaders are set to shine in a fashion landscape that embraces sustainability and regenerative principles.
I envision genuinely authentic brands and influencers prioritising ethical practices and gaining strength. With consumers increasingly scrutinising labels and doing their homework, these leaders are set to shine in a fashion landscape that embraces sustainability and regenerative principles.
What are some actionable ways individuals can support soil regeneration efforts?
Individuals can actively support soil regeneration by adopting more conscious consumption habits, promoting regeneration, and advocating for regenerative practices. Additionally, individuals can help financially support organisations like Kiss the Ground, because this is what we do every day.
At Anthropologie, we're inspired by nature's beauty and wisdom and committed to bettering – and better serving – our planet. We hope you'll join us this Earth Month, and every month, as we seek to learn more, do more, and grow more.
Donate to Kiss the Ground
Learn More About Our Partnerships
Shop Regenerative Cotton Clothing
At Anthropologie, we're inspired by nature's beauty and wisdom and committed to bettering – and better serving – our planet. We hope you'll join us this Earth Month, and every month, as we seek to learn more, do more, and grow more.
Donate to Kiss the Ground
Learn More About Our Partnerships
Shop Regenerative Cotton Clothing