Humanoid

PRODUCTION LOCATIONS 

• The Netherlands
• Italy
• Lithuania
• Portugal
• Macedonia
• Romania 

WORKING CONDITIONS & LIVING WAGES 

Humanoid states that they are proud of the steady, long-term partnerships they have with producers. Often, the brand collaborates with artisans and small family businesses. For example, the bags and leather belts are made by artisan producers in the Netherlands and Italy.

When Humanoid collaborates with larger production companies, the brand prefers European manufacturers. About 80% of production takes place in the European Union, in countries such as Romania and Portugal. These manufacturers always work according to EU laws governing both environmental and working conditions. 

MATERIALS

• Organic cotton
• Cotton
• Polyester
• Nylon
• Tencel Lyocell
• Lyocell
• Viscose
• Cupro
• Linen
• Wool
• Leather
• Hemp
• Bamboo
• Polyurethane (PU)
• Elastane 

Humanoid uses many different materials in their collections. Some of these materials are more sustainable, such as Tencel, organic cotton, linen and hemp. The organic cotton and linen have the GOTS certificate (Global Organic Textile Standard). This means that no chemicals are used in the production process. In addition, working conditions here are controlled.

Unfortunately, the brand also uses unsustainable materials, for example polyester, conventional cotton, cupro, elastane and polyamide. Although cotton is a natural material, it still has a high environmental impact. Cotton cultivation requires huge amounts of water, and often damaging pesticides and chemicals. 

PACKAGING 

Humanoid uses recycled materials for their clothing labels and packaging materials. 

WATER USAGE & CHEMICALS 

Humanoid has not disclosed any measures to tackle their water or chemical usage on their website. By using some organic materials their environmental impact is reduced, as organic crops are grown without harmful chemicals, and with less water. However, the brand also uses synthetic materials which will release microplastics when washed, contributing to water pollution. 

CIRCULAR PRODUCT DESIGN 

To help minimise waste, Humanoid incorporates their own production scraps into creative projects. Additionally, the brand uses recycled materials in some of their designs, which improves their circularity. The brand also states that they are researching how to best recycle their own production waste into new materials. 

However, the garments are unfortunately difficult to recycle after use. This is because many different materials are often combined in one garment. To recycle that product, the different materials must first be separated, which is not possible with current recycling techniques.

CIRCULAR BUSINESS MODELS 

Humanoid doesn’t disclose any circular business models on their website, such as a return scheme or repair service. By introducing an initiative such as this, the brand’s environmental impact would be reduced as it would keep their products away from landfills for longer. 

DISTANCE & COMPLEXITY OF THE SUPPLY CHAIN 

Production locations: 

• The Netherlands
• Italy
• Lithuania
• Portugal
• Macedonia
• Romania 

Most of Humanoid’s production takes place in Europe. As a result, the supply chain is fairly short. The bags are even handmade in the Netherlands! However, as the brand does not disclose details about their supply chain, a more accurate assessment of its length and complexity cannot be determined. 

TRANSPORTATION 

Humanoid does not disclose what transportation methods are used in their supply chain, which will make a big difference to how high their associated emissions are. 

• Wool
• Alpaca
• Leather 

Humanoid uses various materials of animal origin in their collection. Among others, lamb leather is used in stylish blazers. Sheep’s wool and alpaca are used in the soft, knitted jumpers. To help ensure animal welfare, Humanoid only uses wool that has the RWS label (Responsible Wool Standard). This label verifies the living conditions and welfare of the animals.

Unfortunately, Humanoid gives little information about the origin of these materials. As a result, COSH! cannot estimate where the leather comes from.

PRODUCT DESIGN 

Humanoid’s collections are stylish and minimalist, alternating well between tough elements, timeless designs, and casual comfort. 

The brand provides tips and tricks on how to care for your clothes more sustainably. By washing your clothes at a lower temperature, you save energy and your outfit will last longer. 

SLOW FASHION PROCESSES 

To avoid waste, Humanoid states that they are careful not to overproduce, both in terms of designs and promotional materials. Surplus stock is repurposed in collaboration with local craftspeople, for example in the production of quilted cushions or throws) or by their in-house atelier to create store-exclusive products. 

TRANSPARENCY ON PRODUCT 

The transparency of the product pages on Humanoid’s website vary. Most state what materials have been used, and the production country is always provided. The material composition of some garments may however be difficult to understand. For example, their ​‘Hurtado Skirt Ruby’ states that it is a ​‘signature cupro blend’ but doesn’t explain exactly what this means. 

TRANSPARENCY ON PROCESSES 

Humanoid does not score well on transparency. The brand shares little information about their production partners or the origin of materials. The lack of certificates is also disadvantageous here.