Tellus: Sustainable Outdoor Clothing for Your Next Adventure

This article has been sponsored by Tellus, but the post reflects my personal opinion about the brand.

I want to tell you about Tellus, a new outdoor apparel brand on a big mission. 

Tellus is aiming high with a mission to become the most environmentally conscious outdoor apparel brand. Undoubtedly this is an ambitious statement with competitors like Patagonia, Finisterre, and Houdini. So let us take a closer look to see how this young aspiring company is taking shape.

Fabrics and Certifications

A quick look at Tellus’ choice of fabrics and certifications shows they are serious about their environmental commitments. Although they were only launched five months ago, their products have secured the following industry-leading certifications: bluesign®, OEKO-TEX, Global Recycling Standard certified, and Recycled Claims Standard certified. Furthermore, they are in the process of achieving their B Corp Certification, a process that takes one year to obtain and is expected to be completed by the end of this year.

Digging a little deeper it’s evident that Tellus has made a strong commitment to recycled and organic fabrics free from harmful chemicals:

- 100% of their products incorporate certified recycled products
- 74% of their products are manufactured using 75% or more of recycled fabric.
- 100% of their fabrics are bluesign® certified, ensuring workers and products are free from harmful chemicals.
- 95% of recycled materials have been certified through the Global Recycled Standard or the Recycled Claim Standard.
- All T-shirts are Made in America with 100% organic cotton.

Additionally, with a clear emphasis on high-quality materials and craftsmanship, these products are designed to endure the stress inherent in outdoor adventures and are sure to last for many miles.  

Fair Labor Practices 

Tellus works with manufacturers committed to transparency and responsible sourcing. Furthermore, Tellus’ owners and employees visit their Vietnamese manufacturers in person to ensure they uphold the standards they claim, and they personally verify all mill certifications to validate claims of responsible work conditions and practices. 

GiveBack100 pledge

What really sets Tellus apart, above and beyond their responsibly sourced and recycled fabrics, is their laudable financial commitment to support environmental nonprofits dedicated to restoration and conservation.

Tellus’ GiveBack100 is their commitment to reinvest 100% of net profits into combatting pressing environmental issues, including ocean restoration, land and water conservation, and reforestation. After operational costs are paid, all net profits are directed to these initiatives via The Nature Conservancy.

This innovative business model, designed to affect real-world change, truly underscores Tellus' unwavering devotion to nurturing a sustainable planet.

Who is Tellus?

Tellus is a family-run company based in Fort Collins, Colorado, and was born from a profound love and respect for community, nature, and the great outdoors. Its founders, Joe and Melissa, are former Peace Corps volunteers turned entrepreneurs who epitomize the brand's tagline, "Adventure with Purpose." An ethos that reminds us that every adventure is an opportunity to make a difference. 

Joe’s inspiration stems from 30 years of outdoor adventures and a deep connection with nature, while Melissa’s public affairs background, which involved advocating for issues like access to women's health, arts education, and organ donor awareness, has shaped her purpose-driven career focused on community betterment. Together, they share a love for exploring new places, a passion they have shared with their daughters through countless family trips and camping adventures.

Looking Ahead

Tellus certainly appears to lead with its mission and has clearly taken care to ensure the sourcing of ethical and high-quality fabrics. Combined with fair labor practices and their impressive GiveBack100 pledge, they are indeed taking the steps needed to become an industry leader in sustainability. Without a doubt, this is an inspiring brand and one to keep an eye on.