Greener Closet

Kowtow

Last analyzed: 6/5/2026

Overall score
91/100

Summary

Kowtow exhibits a strong commitment to sustainability across multiple categories, particularly in material sourcing, ethical labor practices, and waste reduction. While the brand has made significant strides in reducing its carbon footprint, more detailed information on energy efficiency measures and renewable energy use would further enhance its sustainability profile.

Categories

10 total

Certifications and Standards
10/10

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

Sustainable Material Sourcing
10/10

The brand exclusively uses 100% Fairtrade organic cotton, ensuring non-GMO seeds and organic farming practices that protect soil health.

Waste Reduction and Sustainable Packaging
10/10

Kowtow has implemented a plastic-free policy for all garments and packaging, uses FSC-certified recycled cardboard, and has a repair program that has extended the life of numerous garments.

Ethical Labor Practices and Fair Wages
10/10

Kowtow's supply chain is Fairtrade-certified, ensuring fair wages and ethical labor practices, and the brand is Living Wage NZ accredited for its New Zealand employees.

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 fibers or components.

Transparency and Traceability
9/10

Kowtow demonstrates exceptional transparency by mapping its entire supply chain from cotton farms to final garment production, with all suppliers being Fairtrade-certified and publicly listed by location.

Overall Carbon Footprint and Emissions
9/10

The brand reduced its overall carbon footprint by 72.5% from the base year, with significant decreases in emissions from freight and waste-related activities.

Circularity and Product Longevity
9/10

The brand's repair program has extended the life of 1,747 garments since 2018, and its Take-Back program has collected 925 kg of end-of-life pieces for recycling.

Water Conservation and Pollution Control
8/10

Kowtow has mapped water risks across its supply chain, with most Tier-1 manufacturers using closed-loop water systems and adhering to GOTS standards for wastewater treatment and chemical use.

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy
6/10

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