Greener Closet

Kowtow

Last analyzed: 8/6/2026

Overall score
91/100

Summary

Kowtow exemplifies a strong commitment to sustainability across multiple categories, particularly in transparency, certifications, material sourcing, waste reduction, and ethical labor practices. While they have made significant strides in reducing their carbon footprint, further details on energy efficiency and renewable energy usage would enhance their sustainability profile.

Categories

10 total

Certifications and Standards
10/10

Kowtow holds multiple prestigious certifications, including Fairtrade, GOTS, and B Corp, underscoring their commitment to high environmental and social standards.

Waste Reduction and Sustainable Packaging
10/10

The brand has achieved 100% plastic-free garments and packaging, utilizing FSC-certified recycled cardboard and upcycled materials for tags. Their repair and take-back programs further minimize waste.

Ethical Labor Practices and Fair Wages
10/10

Kowtow ensures fair wages and ethical labor practices through Fairtrade-certified supply chains and is accredited as a Living Wage employer in New Zealand.

Animal Welfare and Cruelty-Free
10/10

Kowtow's product portfolio is entirely plant-based and vegan, using 100% Fairtrade organic cotton and no animal-derived materials.

Transparency and Traceability
9/10

Kowtow demonstrates exceptional transparency by providing a fully traceable supply chain, detailing each stage from cotton farming to garment production. They publicly list supplier names and locations, ensuring accountability and openness.

Sustainable Material Sourcing
9/10

The brand exclusively uses 100% Fairtrade organic cotton, ensuring non-GMO seeds and organic farming practices that protect soil health. They have transitioned to natural, biodegradable trims, further enhancing sustainability.

Overall Carbon Footprint and Emissions
9/10

Kowtow reduced its overall carbon footprint by 72.5% from the base year, primarily through freight consolidation and waste reduction strategies.

Circularity and Product Longevity
9/10

Kowtow's repair program has extended the life of numerous garments, and their take-back program has collected significant amounts of end-of-life pieces for recycling, promoting circularity.

Water Conservation and Pollution Control
8/10

Kowtow has mapped water risks across its supply chain and conducted supplier water assessments. Most Tier-1 manufacturers use closed-loop water systems, and the brand supports water stewardship initiatives in cotton farming regions.

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
7/10

While Kowtow has achieved a significant reduction in its carbon footprint, specific details about energy efficiency measures and renewable energy usage are limited.