Sea Shepherd Australia: Can you explain the significance of using organic materials in OCC Apparel's production processes?

Nick Barclay: OCC Apparel has supported organic materials and the global organic cotton industry since 2004. For the record - You dont have to farm with synthetic fertilisers, chemical pesticides and genetically modified seeds.

Organic farming enhances soil fertility and its water retention and increases the amount of carbon sequestered in the soil which helps to mitigate climate change. It also actively encourages greater biodiversity across a variety of plants, insects and wildlife creating more resilient ecosystems. It supports and protects bees and butterflies who are crucial for plant reproduction. It protects workers in our supply chain from chemical exposure. It stops synthetic chemical farm runoff which pollutes the very waterways and oceans we're focussed on protecting. 

SSAU: How does OCC Apparel ensure fair trade practices throughout its supply chain?

NB: OCC Apparel's supply chain partners are all independently accredited by 3rd party certification bodies. Our supply chain undergoes annual audits to comply with the FairWear code of practice in accordance with the International Labour Organisation's conventions.

We are focussed on providing above award wages, the highest safety standards, empowerment and training, gender equality and inclusion and long term order commitments. OCC Apparel team members also physically visit our supply chain factories, we meet the owners and management teams personally and are greeted and welcomed openly by the workers and meet with the local communities relient on our partnership.

SSAU: What are some of the key ethical considerations that guide OCC Apparel's business decisions?

NB: Our founding business decision when it comes to ethical merchandise is making sure that sustainable and ethically accredited, organic merchandise is actually available and made available for clients and customers to choose.

When we first started OCC Apparel in 2004 you couldn't purchase an organic cotton t-shirt, there was no ability to help, support and participate in the organic and ethical apparel industry. We maintain excellent engagement and honest open communication with our clients on the apparel products and the accreditation we produce with them and how those same credentials help to build their brand and its relationship with their existing and potential new supporters, clients and customers.

SSAU: Why has Sea Shepherd Australia chosen to partner with OCC Apparel for its merchandise?

NB: Sea Shepherd Australia has partnered with OCC Apparel for its merchandise because OCC Apparel’s ethical and sustainable practices align perfectly with Sea Shepherd’s mission to protect marine environments and promote conservation. This partnership not only supports Sea Shepherd’s campaigns financially but also helps raise awareness about the importance of ethical consumer choices in achieving broader environmental goals.

Both Sea Shepherd and OCC Apparel understand the power of the brand and that ultimately that power is a combination of its supporters, volunteers and the quality of the merchandise they proudly wear that unites them. Both organizations share a long-term vision of a sustainable future where businesses operate responsibly, and ecosystems are preserved for future generations. This shared vision drives the partnership and ensures ongoing collaboration for mutual goals.

SSAU: How can purchasing these ethically produced products from Sea Shepherd Australia’s shop contribute to the organisation’s conservation efforts?

NB: Purchasing ethically produced products from Sea Shepherd Australia’s shop provides essential financial support, raises awareness, promotes sustainable practices, empowers communities, and encourages further engagement with the Sea Shepherd community and brand.

Each purchase not only helps fund Sea Shepherd’s vital conservation efforts but also aligns consumer actions with the broader mission of protecting marine life and preserving ocean ecosystems. Sea Shepherd merchandise lovers proudly bond on a global scale. We see each other. We see eye to eye.

Purchasing Sea Shepherd merchandise not only strengthens Sea Shepherd it ignites a ripple effect of informed consumer choices which extends to other aspects of life. It promotes overall environmental consciousness and responsible behaviour.

You can shop the full range of SSAU merchandise supplied by OCC Apparel at our online store