Our Sustainability Values

At The Dharma Door, sustainability is at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to creating beautiful, high-quality products while minimising our impact on the environment and supporting the artisan communities we work with. Our approach to sustainability is holistic and extends across our entire supply chain, from the sourcing of raw materials to our business practices. Below are the key principles that guide our efforts to operate sustainably and responsibly:

Natural Raw Materials

We prioritise the use of natural raw materials that are grown and sourced locally to the artisans we collaborate with. By choosing local materials, we not only reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation but also support local economies and promote sustainable agricultural practices. This approach helps to preserve the natural ecosystems surrounding our artisans' communities and ensures that our products are made with materials that are both environmentally friendly and culturally meaningful.

Natural Dyes & Finishes

To minimise the environmental impact of our products, we prioritise the use of natural dyes, aiming to avoid the harmful chemicals often found in synthetic dyes. This is especially important in the artisans' villages, where waterways are vital for both people and nature. By using natural dyes, we ensure that the water remains clean and safe for all, protecting the health of the community and the surrounding environment. Our commitment to natural dyes is a testament to our respect for the artisans' traditional techniques and our dedication to preserving their natural surroundings. If we need to use synthetic dyes or finishes because a natural option isn’t available, we are ever mindful of how artisans are protected and how waste is disposed of.   

Handcrafted

Every item we produce is handcrafted, without the use of machines or factories. This not only reduces our environmental footprint but also supports the continuation of traditional crafts and techniques. By investing in handmade products, we are helping to preserve these skills for future generations, providing sustainable livelihoods for artisans and fostering a deeper connection between our customers and the people who create our products. Each handcrafted piece tells a unique story, making it a meaningful addition to any home.

Eco-friendly Packaging

We are committed to reducing waste and limiting our use of plastic in packaging and are constantly looking for ways to improve the way we pack and send our products to make it even more sustainable. Our products are packaged in cardboard, unbleached cotton, hessian and biodegradable plastic and they are shipped in recycled cardboard or compostable satchels and we By choosing materials that can be recycled or reused, we are doing our part to reduce the environmental impact of our packaging and contribute to a circular economy.

Sustainable Shipping

To minimise the carbon footprint associated with shipping, we use sea freight for 95% of our shipments from our suppliers. We have partnered with a third-party logistics company based close to our largest customer base, allowing us to reduce carbon miles and deliver our products more efficiently. In the future, we aim to work with additional logistics partners to further reduce our environmental impact and bring our products to you in the most sustainable way possible.

Responsible Business Practices

We believe that sustainability should be a part of every aspect of our business, not just our products. That’s why we limit printing to only essential documents and prioritise digital communication whenever possible. When we travel to visit our artisans, we often use cars or trains instead of planes to reduce our carbon footprint. We are continually exploring new ways to make our business practices more sustainable, from the office to the field.

We are genuinely dedicated to making a positive impact on the planet and the communities we work with. We believe that by committing to sustainable practices, we can create products that are not only beautiful and high-quality but also respectful of the world we all share. Thank you for supporting us on this journey toward a more sustainable future.