Tory Burch, renowned fashion designer, was bestowed with a prestigious TIME Earth Award on Wednesday. The award was presented by actress Jodie Comer, who commended Burch’s unwavering commitment to sustainability through her design philosophy of simplicity. Burch reciprocated the admiration, expressing her belief that artists and scientists possess the power to navigate the complex environmental challenges facing society today.
Burch has seamlessly integrated sustainability into the practices of her namesake company. Her brand operates on a made-to-order basis, minimizing excess production and waste. Additionally, Burch continuously explores innovative methods to reduce environmental impact in packaging and fabric selection. In 2019, she made history by presenting the industry’s first carbon-neutral runway show.
Reflecting on her sustainability journey, Burch emphasized the pivotal realization that sustainability is fundamentally an energy issue. She believes that the world’s reliance on fossil fuels is unsustainable and advocates for a transition to alternative energy sources. Burch expressed particular optimism about scientific advancements in nuclear fusion, recognizing its potential to revolutionize energy production.
Beyond her personal efforts, Burch emphasized the significance of sustained collective action and determination. She envisions herself as a catalyst, inspiring and empowering the next generation of leaders to embrace sustainability and environmental stewardship. Burch urged individuals to avoid despair and instead focus on conserving, regenerating, and supporting the efforts of young minds dedicated to the climate cause.
