Can’t find a job in the Surf Industry, why not make one?

Sept. 2, 2010 - PRLog -- Eco Surfwear brand Rapanui was started by surfing brothers Mart and Rob Drake-Knight, inspired by a real passion for surfing and the environment, they decided to make a water sports brand with an eco twist.
Through surfing they could see the changes to the marine ecosystem and the effect of climate change on their environment, mainly at their local beach, even becoming ill from water polluted by field run-off.
The business was started on a minuscule budget of just £200 back in 2008, in those two short years the brand has scooped countless awards for their commitment to sustainability. They use organic, natural fabrics, free from artificial fertilisers and pesticides in wind powered, Fairwear Foundation audited factories; this ensures every worker throughout the supply chain gets a fair wage and clean, safe working environment. Customers can find out exactly where and how their clothing is made using interactive maps. Mart explains why:
“If we can inform and educate people as to where clothing comes from and how it is made they can make informed decisions as shoppers. As a brand, if we can mix eco with trend and inspire people to think about the environment in wider lifestyle choices, we will have done our job”.
“It's not that people don’t care about our marine ecosystems, pollution or climate change, it's just they don’t know. At Rapanui we make it easier for people to see where their clothing comes from and how it is made, so they can then make informed choices.” says co-founder Rob.
“It would be great to see other young people getting involved with environmental issues in such a creative and entrepreneurial way.” Martin Drake-Knight, co-founder of Rapanui continues “we hope that our story will show other young people out there that you can be successful in any economic climate, whether you wear a suit or flip flops.”

ENDS

Notes to Editor
For further information please contact Rob Drake-Knight, on 01983 873430 or email rob@rapanuiclothing.com. Or for specific information on sustainability Martin Drake-Knight on 01983 873430 or email mdk@rapanuiclothing.com

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About Rapanui:
Rapanui is about making cool eco-fashion for young people; that means clothing that is eco-friendly, ethical and sustainable: Made from natural organic fabrics in a Fairwear Foundation audited, wind powered factory. Through surfing the brothers saw and experienced the changing environment and climate at their local beach and as inspired, unemployed graduates in a recession, they took a different path; if you can't find a job, make one.
Rapanui has held Seminars and Lectures at UK and EU universities and multinational companies such as Centrica PLC on Sustainable Business and sit on the Panel at Plymouth University's All our Future Conference.