The jury members closely reviewed the applicants’ fundamental approach to sustainability and focused specifically on their use of certified materials, production processes, innovation, transparency and integration of circular practices.

The jury was impressed by Mworks’ use of innovative materials and techniques, such as Seaqual yarn and seamless knitting, Ræburn’s innovative reworking of surplus fabrics to create distinctive and functional pieces as well as Ranra’s drive to launch a recycling and garment repair programme, according to Zalando.

The three finalists will receive funding for production costs and debut their designs in the official Zalando x CPHFW partnership hub venue and the digital Greenhouse. The digital space will also be a source of inspiration and education to help people navigate the complex topic of sustainability. The finalists will compete to win Zalando’s sustainability award, a prize of €20,000 as well as a partnership with Zalando in developing an exclusive capsule collection. The collection will contribute to the conversation by exploring sustainability solutions in design across materials, production processes, technological solutions, and traceability.

The jury will do a second review of the finalists and the collections which they will showcase during Copenhagen Fashion Week to select the winner of the award. The winner will be announced on August 11, 2022.

“With these three brands named as the finalists in this year’s award, the SS23 season at Copenhagen Fashion Week is set to be a really exciting event. This award is an opportunity for both Zalando and Copenhagen Fashion Week to publicly reward brands that have a strong sustainability agenda and facilitate collaboration across the industry. It spotlights brands that are leading in the sustainability space – and in doing so, Zalando aims to inform and inspire consumers and help to transform the fashion industry,” director of sustainability at Zalando, Kate Heiny, said in a statement.