Sustainability

This Little Universe is a values-driven business that seeks to support our beautiful planet and its finite resources while existing as a for-profit company within its ecosystem. We also believe in creating a meaningful connection with our customers, which is why transparency is a core value our business. From designing each product to partnering with like-minded collaborators, we take pride in being open and honest about our processes.

The nature of our business is to sell products, and there's no way around it: creating and shipping our products to customers worldwide has an environmental footprint.

We wrestle with the ethics of respecting our planet and still being able to treat your friend to a new coffee mug or indulge in a new swimsuit to wear on your well-deserved vacation. How can we balance these two?

Since our launch in Fall 2022, we've kept sustainability at the top of our priorities. Our approach is constantly evolving as we learn more from experts working in this area!

Currently, we adhere to the following principles:

Prioritize products made with sustainable materials
Instead of manufacturing in bulk, only produce items once ordered
Be fully transparent about how products are made
Donate a portion of profits to environmental initiatives
Pressure our production partners to increase use of sustainable fabrics
Create a plan for a closed loop system by 2026
Discuss important sustainability topics on our blog

Because we are a one-woman show currently operating out of our living room, have a small volume of sales, and use a made-to-order model, our footprint is minuscule compared to large fashion and lifestyle brands. Cultivating responsible business practices is top-of-mind, and we want to prove it's possible to run a profitable business while prioritizing the health of our planet.

As we grow, we'll continue to adapt to the needs of our community and the planet. Please reach out with any suggestions or advice about how we can improve our practices!

Made-To-Order
You won't find any overstocked, dusty warehouses in this little universe! 😉 Upon purchase, we print, sew, or otherwise manufacture your products just for you, so you know you're getting quality every time.
Collaborative Microbusiness
We work out of our living room with partners around the world whose missions align with ours, including experienced suppliers with decades of experience and other small businesses like us.
Independently-Certified Fabrics
Don't just take our word for it — our products are certified by third-party companies. Different products have different certifications, and we'll clearly list the certifications for each product in each listing.
Philanthropy First
"Profit First" accounting has become popular among businesses...lame! We prefer our "Philanthropy First" mentality and donate a portion of profits to environmental initiatives. In November, we donate 100%!!
Better Packaging
We're always looking for new ways to improve our packaging while making sure your products arrive in pristine condition. We use recycled and biodegradable materials whenever possible.
Continued Improvement
We're super open to feedback and suggestions about how we can do better. We THRIVE on constructive criticism and would love to hear how you think we can make This Little Universe a better place.

About Fabric Certifications

GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard)

The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the worldwide leading textile processing standard for organic fibers, including ecological and social criteria, backed up by independent third-party certification of the entire textile supply chain. This standard also sets limitations on other fibers that can be blended with organic fibers.

OCS (Organic Content Standard)

The Organic Content Standard (OCS) is a certification for non-food goods that confirms the organic material presence in the final product. It also follows the supply chain from its source to the final product.

GRS (Global Recycled Standard)

The Global Recycled Standard (GRS) are international, voluntary standards that set requirements for third-party certification of recycled content and supply chain. The shared goal of the standards is to increase the use of recycled materials. The GRS also includes criteria for social and environmental processing requirements and chemical restrictions.

OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified

OEKO-TEX® certification is one of the world’s leading labels for textile safety, and it proves that the certified products are free from hazardous chemicals. We’ve listed the label in the product description of the products that hold this certification. We also use OEKO-TEX® certified inks and thread for embroidery designs.

PETA-Approved Vegan

We purchase blank products for embroidery from our supplier. Some of those come with a PETA-Approved Vegan certificate that our supplier applied for, which will be indicated in the listing.