As part of our Institute’s commitment to Laudato Si’, we look for opportunities to pursue our ecological conversion by reexamining our relationships with God, creation and our brothers and sisters. We join the international community on the journey toward sustainability and integral ecology.
Recently Sister Virginia Dorgan, our Institute JPIC Coordinator, joined by Sisters Kathleen Kanet and Margarita Cardenas, members of our RSHM Weaving Center in Tarrytown and parishioners from St. Francis de Sales Church in New York City, toured Eileen Fisher’s Renew Center in Irvington, NY.
Renowned clothing designer and entrepreneur Eileen Fisher is committed to sustainability. The company’s manufacturing process is “circular by design.” They source fibers that are regenerative, renewable and recyclable. Their manufacturing processes strive to use less water and energy and reduce waste. To keep clothing out of landfills, Eileen Fisher buys back its clothing from customers. The company then reworks them into new merchandise at the Renew Center.
Carmen Gama, Director of Circular Design, and a parishioner at St. Francis de Sales, led the tour. She explained that all items bought back are sorted, mended and laundered; then resold, donated or redesigned. The tour provided the sisters and other guests with a great example of how a business can advance toward an ecological conversion, and what sustainability looks like on a larger scale.
Thank you -great seeing everyone!