Our Process + Sustainability Initiatives | How Human Nature Designs Products are Made

We are constantly working to make our processes more sustainable. If you have ideas of how we could be better, please reach out via the Get in Touch tab or at emily@humanaturedesigns.com.

Here’s how we are currently reducing our environmental footprint:

• Sublimation Printing: Sublimation uses water-based inks free of Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), reducing waste and emissions. Additionally, since the process doesn’t require water for rinsing, it conserves water and avoids contamination from dye runoff. Sublimation printing is energy-efficient, creates durable designs that don't fade, and is ideal for creating our national parks mugs and mountain-inspired pint glasses that will last you a lifetime.
  
  
• Drinkware: By choosing reusable drinkware, we're helping reduce the 50+ billion single-use cups that end up in landfills yearly. Our stainless steel camping mugs and colorful glass pints are recyclable and sustainable options that allow nature lovers like you to sleep at night, knowing you're doing good for Mother Earth.
  
  
• Sustainable Shipping & Packaging: We use eco-friendly and recyclable
  materials like kraft paper, compostable mailers, and cardboard to ship your nature-inspired goods and gifts. When possible, we steer clear of packing materials that are harmful to the environment due to their non-biodegradable nature, energy-intensive production, or toxic chemical components (bubble wrap, Styrofoam peanuts, shrink wrap, and plastic mailers).
  
  
• Made to Order Model: Our made-to-order and small batch model reduces overproduction and excess inventory, preventing items from ending up in landfills. Any products that are damaged, misprinted, or not sold to loving homes are used for samples, test prints, giveaways, or donations.
  
  
• DTG Printing for Apparel: All outdoor apparel is printed using Direct to Garment (DTG) printing. DTG printing is a more sustainable option because it minimizes waste by using only the necessary amount of ink, conserves water by eliminating the need for screen washing, and uses eco-friendly, water-based inks. Additionally, DTG is energy-efficient, lowering its overall environmental impact,
  making it an eco-conscious choice for creating products like our adventure t-shirts and sweatshirts. Our apparel ships regionally, cutting down CO₂ emissions and ensuring faster delivery.
  
  
• Local Vendors: When possible, we work with local retailers, suppliers, and manufacturers to reduce transportation emissions and support local economies.
  
  
• Non-Profit Donations: We dedicate a percentage of sales to conservation efforts and eco-friendly non-profit partners. We are also working to become a 1% for the Planet brand.