#ethical practices

[dress-this-way]

Strive for Sustainable Style - YLF

[zomb13s]

"Heartfelt Thanks to Our Incredible Supporters"

At ikziezombies.com, we are more than just a studio; we are a community brought together by a shared passion for art and creativity. Today, we want to take a moment to express our profound gratitude to all the wonderful individuals who have supported us in countless ways, both big and small. The Power of Small Acts It’s often said that it’s the little things that matter the most, and we…

[breezybirdfarms]

Why Vent Sexing Chicks is an Unethical Practice

In my last article, it explaings that chicks cannot be sexed. There is and exception and this article will explain why we should strive to stay away from purchasing chicks from individuals that practice vent sexing.

1. The poultry industry often employs various methods to identify the gender of chicks, with one common practice being vent sexing. However, it is crucial to understand why vent sexing is not an acceptable practice from an ethical standpoint, considering the potential harm it causes to the chicks involved.

2. Vent sexing defined: Vent sexing is a process in which chicks are sorted based on their gender by examining their genitalia, called the vent, which is located near their cloaca. This method is often used to separate male and female chicks at hatcheries, primarily for commercial purposes.

3. Accuracy concerns: While vent sexing may offer a relatively quick method of gender identification, it is not foolproof. Even experienced professionals can make mistakes, leading to misidentification of chicks' genders. This can result in unintended consequences, such as incorrect breeding programs or unnecessary culling of valuable birds.

4. Stress and discomfort: Vent sexing involves manually manipulating the delicate genitalia of young chicks, which can cause significant stress and discomfort. The process can lead to injuries, infections, or even death, as the chicks are fragile and still developing. Engaging in practices that cause harm to animals contradicts the principles of animal welfare.

5. Unnecessary culling: Vent sexing is commonly used to identify male chicks, as they are often considered economically less valuable in the poultry industry. Consequently, male chicks are often culled shortly after hatching, leading to their untimely deaths. This mass culling of male chicks raises concerns about ethical treatment and the disposable nature of these animals.

6. Alternatives to vent sexing: With advancing technology, alternatives to vent sexing are emerging. Non-invasive methods such as DNA sexing, infrared imaging, and spectroscopy offer more accurate and humane alternatives. By adopting these alternative methods, we can minimize the negative impact on animal welfare and promote ethical practices within the poultry industry.

7. Animal rights perspective: Vent sexing raises ethical questions regarding the treatment of animals as mere commodities. Every living creature deserves to be treated with respect and dignity, and subjecting chicks to invasive procedures for mere gender identification purposes contradicts this fundamental principle.

8. Education and awareness: Raising awareness about the negative aspects of vent sexing is crucial to promote change within the poultry industry. By educating consumers and industry professionals about the ethical concerns associated with vent sexing, we can encourage a shift towards more humane practices.

9. Focus on chick care: Instead of relying solely on gender identification, the focus should shift towards providing optimal care for all chicks, regardless of their gender. This includes proper nutrition, housing, and veterinary support to ensure the well-being and healthy growth of every individual chick.

10. Sustainable farming practices: Embracing sustainable farming practices that prioritize animal welfare and minimize harm is essential in today's world. By moving away from vent sexing and adopting alternative methods, we can contribute to a more sustainable and compassionate future for the poultry industry.

Vent sexing chicks is not an acceptable practice due to its potential for inaccuracy, the stress and discomfort it causes to the chicks, unnecessary culling, and its ethical implications. By promoting awareness, encouraging alternatives, and prioritizing animal welfare, we can work towards a poultry industry that values the well-being of every individual chick.

Stay tuned for the next article that talks about auto-sexing chicks. If someone is inclined to know the sex of the chick, there is a natural way to identify gender without applying cruel methods.

Candace Breezy Bird Farms

[woodpengu]

It also needs to be added that people prone to panicking or episodes related to trauma (ie PTSD/C-PTSD) might have a sensitive nervous system and will go into survival mode at a whiff of smoke. It prods the part of lizard brain looking out for wild fires and might urge that person to feel the need to escape or run. Japanese incense sticks are less smoky and burn for shorter periods. Some other incense behaves the same. Go for quality, but also be mindful of your environment and who/what you share space with. Good ventilation and minimal burning are one's friends.

[victoriadaisy]

Exploring the Coffee Industry: Outin's Unique Approach

In the vibrant world of coffee, Outin stands out as a brand dedicated to quality and innovation. They believe that the key to an exceptional cup of coffee lies in the freshness of the beans, which is why they emphasize the importance of grinding coffee beans just before brewing. This practice not only enhances the flavor but also preserves the essential oils that contribute to the aromatic experience.

Outin offers a variety of blends, each crafted with care and precision. Their commitment to sourcing high-quality beans from sustainable farms around the globe ensures that every sip is not only delicious but also supports ethical practices in the coffee industry.

Are you exploring ways to elevate your coffee experience? Have you tried grinding your own coffee beans for that fresh, rich flavor? We'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences with Outin or any other brands you enjoy.

Share your coffee journey with us, and let’s celebrate the joy of a perfect brew together!

[lukelam7455]

Exploring the Benefits of Print on Demand with Inkedjoy

The dropshipping industry has seen remarkable growth, and one of the standout brands in the print on demand sector is Inkedjoy. This innovative company offers a range of customizable products that allow entrepreneurs to create unique merchandise without the need for inventory.

With print on demand, you can design everything from apparel to accessories, and Inkedjoy makes the process seamless. Their user-friendly platform empowers creators to express their ideas and connect with customers in a meaningful way. Plus, the quality of the products ensures that every item is not just a sale, but a cherished keepsake for the buyer.

Inkedjoy's commitment to sustainability and ethical practices also sets it apart in the dropshipping landscape. By choosing print on demand, you support environmentally friendly production methods, which is a win for both the planet and your business.

Overall, the print on demand model with Inkedjoy is a fantastic way to dive into the dropshipping world, allowing for creativity, flexibility, and positive impact.

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Shining Bright: The Mvraki Lab Diamond Necklace

The jewelry industry is blossoming with innovative and sustainable options, and Mvraki is at the forefront of this exciting change. Their exquisite lab diamond necklace is a perfect example of elegance combined with ethical practices.

Mvraki's commitment to quality ensures that each lab diamond is crafted with precision, offering a stunning sparkle that rivals natural diamonds. The lab diamond necklace not only showcases beautiful craftsmanship but also promotes environmental sustainability, making it a responsible choice for conscientious consumers.

Choosing a Mvraki lab diamond necklace means embracing luxury without compromise. Whether for a special occasion or as a timeless addition to your collection, this necklace is sure to bring joy and admiration. Celebrate your style with Mvraki, where brilliance meets ethics!

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Celebrating Love with Lahela Jewelry

Discover the enchanting world of engagement rings at Lahela Jewelry, where elegance meets sustainability. Our stunning collection features lab-grown diamonds that not only shine brightly but also represent a commitment to ethical practices.

Each lab-grown diamond engagement ring is crafted with care, ensuring that every piece is as unique as your love story. Choosing a lab-grown diamond means you can celebrate your special moment with a clear conscience, knowing that your beautiful ring is created without harming the environment.

Join us at Lahela Jewelry and find the perfect ring that symbolizes your everlasting love. Let’s make your engagement unforgettable with a touch of luxury and a commitment to a better world!

[fabricfringe]

Fashion Fusion: Blending trends and creativity in sewing combines different fashion elements and innovative techniques to create unique and stylish garments that reflect the latest trends. With a focus on mixing and matching various styles, fabrics, and details, fashion fusion allows designers and s...

[xtruss]

What’s The Difference Between $50 Jeans And $500 Jeans?

Textile And Fashion Experts Reveal The Little Things To Look For That Can Make a Big Difference In Price.

— By Jamie Davis Smith, Guest Writer | February 24, 2025

We talked to designers and fashion industry insiders to help figure out why some jeans cost so little and some cost so much. Photograph Basak Gurbuz Derman Via Getty Images

When it’s time to buy a new pair of jeans, your head may start spinning. Some jeans cost $50, while others cost $500, and it can be hard for the average consumer to figure out what accounts for the price difference.

Some people are willing to pay whatever it costs to get the perfect fit but don’t want to pay more if all they get for their money is a name-brand stitched on the back. Meanwhile, even the thriftiest shoppers usually don’t want to waste their hard-earned money on a cheap pair of jeans that won’t hold up.

“Denim prices are wildly divergent and not necessarily affixed to sensible-seeming things, like how much it costs to make them,” explained Colbey Reid, the director of the School of Fashion and professor of fashion studies at Columbia College Chicago.

“This makes denim pricing really hard to navigate, not only for consumers but for brands, too,” she added.

We talked to designers and fashion industry insiders to help figure out why some jeans cost so little and some cost so much.

Note Details Like Double-Stitched Seams.

“Jeans with intricate designs or additional production steps tend to cost more,” said Elizabeth Davey, director of product at Duer.

The more workmanship a style requires, the more the jeans will cost. “Hem grinding, hand trimming and embroidery require more labor time to cut and sew the jeans,” said Caren Lettiere, the founder and president of Democracy Clothing. The finishing process can significantly impact costs. “Artisanal hand-washing, specialized dyes and premium embellishments like custom hardware, rivets, buttons, plates, and patches” also drive the cost of jeans up, Lettiere added.

Some details that increase the cost of jeans may not be obvious, but they can help them last longer. For example, a double or chain stitch along the seams or pockets and an extra button sewn inside the jeans in case one gets lost can help jeans stand the test of time and save money in the long run, Rogers said.

Look for details like double-stitched seams to indicate higher quality denim. Nenov Via Getty Images

Production Scale Matters.

For all clothing, “The bigger the brand, the cheaper they can manufacture,” explained Jacqueline Diane, a freelance denim designer. Many factories charge brands a “per piece” price. The more jeans a brand orders, the less they will pay for each pair. That means well-known designer brands can sometimes price their jeans lower than smaller brands producing similar quality jeans, Reid said.

If you want limited-run jeans that not everyone is wearing, Lettiere said that it will likely cost you more.

Materials Make A Difference In Price, Too.

All denim contains cotton, Reid explained. However, the fabric quality used in manufacturing jeans significantly affects the final cost.

For example, Shelley Rogers, a fashion coordinator at Earthday.org, said organic cotton grown without pesticides and using less water will cost more than conventionally grown cotton.

“Countries like Japan and Italy are known for producing high-cost, premium fabrics,” Davey said. Japanese denim, for instance, is usually made with high-quality cotton and dying techniques that result in deep indigo. That comes at a cost.

Moreover, jeans made out of 100% cotton are usually more expensive and last longer than jeans combined with synthetic materials, Rogers explained. Nevertheless, many companies combine synthetic materials with cotton to create properties cotton does not have but consumers like — such as stretch or a very rigid look, Reid said. These blends “each have unique characteristics that affect not just price but comfort, durability, and how the jeans ultimately move and shape with your body,” Lettiere said.

However, Rogers noted some jeans create blends to help bring the price down. Materials like polyester are less expensive than cotton, so adding polyester to jeans decreases the cost.

Ethical Practices Will Drive Up The Price.

If you pay $20 for a pair of jeans, “something has gone terribly wrong in the supply chain, as it implies that someone did not get paid a fair wage,” Diane said.

The more responsible the brand is, the more expensive the jeans will be. In addition to paying a fair wage, jeans that aren’t made using environmentally sustainable practices will likely cost less. For example, Reid said companies that dispose of dyes in a way that is not environmentally friendly may be able to charge less. “One way to think about the cost and quality of denim is to include the cost to the environment and other humans and bake that into our understanding of quality,” Reid advised.

However, Diane cautioned that just because a pair of jeans costs $500 does not necessarily mean that a company is manufacturing their products in an environmentally friendly way. To figure this out, consumers need to do their own research. Good On You rates brands according to how sustainable they are. Additionally, apparel brands that have been B Corporation-certified demonstrate a commitment to sustainable social and environmental practices. Lowthrop also looks at brands’ websites to see if they are transparent about their manufacturing processes.

How Much Are You Paying For A Brand Name?

Brand names are “a huge factor in consumer price” that largely comes down to the brand’s perception, said Larissa Lowthorp, founder of the clothing brand Lunescape.

However, price doesn’t always correlate with quality, she explained. Many brands that market themselves as luxury are made in the same factory, using the same techniques as mass-market jeans, Diane said. Rather than paying for better quality, consumers may be paying for the brand’s investment in marketing, fashion shows and storefront real estate. “All of this gets built into the price,” Lettiere said.

“A pair of designer jeans might cost only marginally more to produce than mid-range jeans but retail for several times more due to brand pricing strategies,” she explained.

How Can You Tell If Price Correlates With Quality?

To make sure you are getting quality jeans, Lowthrop recommends looking for specific design elements. First, she suggests examining the type of denim used to see if it is thick and heavy, which may indicate that the jeans are made of premium denim.

Then, she recommends examining the stitches to ensure they are tight, even, and made with thick thread.

Lowthrop says another sign that jeans are well made is a crisp, clean fold that stays in place when cuffed. She also suggests looking for design elements, such as stitch detailing, the types of products used, or specialized finishes, such as frayed hems, that may justify a higher price.

Finally, Lowthrop recommends ensuring that no dye comes off on your hands while examining the jeans. These steps, combined with a company’s commitment to sustainability, will tell you more about the quality of jeans than the price tag.

[adikkachannels]

Guard Your Reputation with Integrity: Vedic Wisdom for Modern Challenges

The Power of Reputation in Human Behavior Reputation is one of the most potent forces influencing human behavior. It shapes how individuals interact with one another, how societies function, and how organizations establish authority and trust. Throughout history and across cultures, reputation has been regarded as a valuable asset, one that can take years to build and moments to destroy. In…

[wellandable]

Professional Standards and Ethical Practices You Can Trust in Massage Therapy

Professional Standards and Ethical Practices You Can Trust in Massage Therapy

When it comes to your health and well-being, choosing the right care provider is a crucial decision. Massage therapy, when delivered by a registered professional, is not only effective but also safe and ethical. At Well+Able Integrated Health in Kamloops, we are proud to uphold the highest professional standards, ensuring that every session is designed with your needs and comfort in mind.

This article will explore the key aspects of safety, ethical practices, and professional care assurance in therapeutic massage to help you make informed decisions about your health journey.

Safety in Therapeutic Massage

Safety is the cornerstone of effective care. At Well+Able, we follow rigorous protocols to ensure your physical and emotional safety throughout your treatment. Here’s how we prioritize your well-being:

Detailed Assessments: Before starting any session, our registered massage therapists (RMTs) conduct thorough assessments to understand your health history, current concerns, and treatment goals.

Customized Care: No two bodies are the same. Your treatment plan is tailored specifically to your needs, whether you're seeking pain relief, stress reduction, or recovery from an injury.

Comfort First: Your comfort is always respected. Our therapists ensure clear communication, adjusting techniques or pressure based on your preferences and feedback.

By focusing on safety, we aim to create an environment where you can relax and trust that your care is in good hands.

Ethical Standards in Massage Therapy

Ethics are at the heart of everything we do. RMTs in British Columbia adhere to a strict Code of Ethics established by the College of Massage Therapists of BC (CMTBC). At Well+Able, we embrace these principles in every aspect of our practice:

Confidentiality: Your privacy matters. Information shared during your appointments remains confidential and is handled with the utmost discretion.

Transparency: From explaining your treatment plan to discussing fees, we believe in open and honest communication at every step.

Informed Consent: Before any treatment begins, you’ll be fully informed about the techniques we’ll use and what to expect, ensuring you feel empowered and in control of your care.

Ethical practice means you can trust that your care is delivered with respect, integrity, and your best interests at heart.

Professional Care Assurance

At Well+Able, our team of experienced RMTs is dedicated to providing high-quality, evidence-based care. Here's how we ensure professionalism in every interaction:

Continuous Learning: Our therapists stay updated on the latest research and techniques, ensuring you benefit from the most effective and up-to-date treatments.

Collaboration: We believe in a team approach. If your care would benefit from input from other healthcare professionals, we’ll collaborate with them to ensure a holistic approach to your well-being.

Empowerment Through Education: Beyond the treatment room, we provide tips, exercises, and stretches to help you maintain and improve your health between sessions.

Our goal is not just to treat your immediate concerns but to support your long-term wellness journey.

Why Professional Standards Matter

Professionalism, safety, and ethics create a foundation of trust between you and your therapist. These standards ensure that your care is effective, respectful, and tailored to your needs, giving you confidence in the therapy you receive.

Choosing Massage Therapy in Kamloops

At Well+Able Integrated Health, we’re proud to be part of the Kamloops community, providing massage therapy that upholds the highest professional standards. Whether you’re new to massage therapy or looking for a trusted partner in your health journey, we’re here to support you with integrity and care.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about how massage therapy can help you, reach out to us. We’re always happy to provide information and guidance.

📞 Contact us today to schedule your appointment or learn more about our services.

By understanding the importance of safety, ethical standards, and professionalism, you can make informed decisions and feel confident in the care you choose. Let us be part of your journey toward better health and well-being.

[dnareferencelabinc]

Infidelity can leave emotional scars and raise doubts in relationships. In such situations, many seek clarity through drug testing in Tennessee, which can help individuals ensure that substances haven’t played a role in their partner’s behavior. While drug testing serves a different purpose, the underlying desire for truth is similar. Individuals looking to unearth potential infidelity may consider DNA testing as a more definitive approach to resolve their suspicions.

[productiveandfree]

3 Ways Businesses Can Prepare for a Sustainable Future

Corporate sustainability is a term that is more than just a buzzword. Mega corporations like Walmart, McDonald's, and others consider it a key priority moving forward. As per Investopedia, the three main pillars of corporate sustainability are social, environmental, and economic pillars. 

Businesses need to develop models that will help them do more and better with less. The World Economic Forum (WEF) has given its verdict based on observation and current patterns that the future of business is digital and sustainable. 

This means it is high time businesses jump onto the bandwagon of ethical practices if they wish to stay relevant and competitive. What will it take to build a sustainable future? In this article, we will discuss three ways in which companies across industry verticals can prepare themselves for a sustainable future. 

Choosing Sustainable Product Design 

Since a brand is primarily known by the products that it manufactures, it must begin there. In other words, the first step towards a sustainable future is to integrate sustainability into the product designing stage. This may take different forms, as discussed below. 

Safer Alternatives 

If a company is looking to become sustainable, it cannot afford to skip the process of innovation. The level of pollution and toxicity today needs combating, which may take some time to overcome. 

One area where innovation for safer alternatives is crucial is that of chemicals used. Most industries today use some or the other form of chemicals for their daily operations. Though most synthetic chemicals are harmful, none so much as per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances or PFAS. 

Covering a large group of over 12,000 chemicals, PFAS have become more than just a pervasive nuisance. They can severely impact the environment and human health. The reason they're so difficult to deal with is because of wide industrial applications. 

For decades, PFAS have been used to manufacture Class B firefighting foam or Aqueous Film Forming Foam (AFFF). These chemicals also form an important part of other industries like electronics, consumer goods, textiles, and more. They have been found to cause serious conditions like cancer. 

This is mainly why firefighters have filed the AFFF lawsuit against PFAS manufacturers. It has been alleged that the defendants like 3M and DuPont were aware of the risks associated with their chemical compounds. In an attempt to milk profits, they chose not to disclose their findings. 

According to TruLaw, even municipalities filed this lawsuit due to water contamination. These cases have been settled, whereas the former category still has over 7,000 pending lawsuits awaiting settlements. Given the gravity of the situation, PFAS will be completely banned by early 2026. 

This means businesses must look for non-toxic alternatives for grease-proofing agents and firefighting foam. Thankfully, new methods and raw materials are emerging that can help fill this massive gap. It is time to incorporate sustainable practices for industrial compliance and consumer safety. 

This is simply just one example. There can be several more that extend beyond chemical management. That would include renewable energy, biodegradable materials, and lean manufacturing. 

Better Packaging 

Innovation is not only required in the product design but also for its packaging. Studies have discovered the presence of over 3,600 toxic chemicals that leach into food through its packaging. 

What makes this news worse is the fact that traces of the aforementioned PFAS have also been found on food packages. The primary purpose is to make it grease and oil-resistant. Companies need to choose safe packaging options, which would include renewable and biodegradable materials. 

Examples of non-toxic packaging would be paperboard, cardboard, and glass. Even here, the life cycle of the packaging must be considered, right from the time of production up until composting. As for the PFAS coating in food packages, some better alternatives would include seaweed and bio-wax.   

Building Sustainable Supply Chains 

A second way companies can showcase their commitment to sustainability is by building a better supply chain. One that is sustainable would be designed based on a consideration for the social and environmental impact of operations. The aim is to minimize environmental impact while positively impacting communities. 

A sustainable supply chain would be composed of green practices, good labor ethics, and 100% transparency. So, how can businesses build a sustainable supply chain? 

They must start by sourcing raw materials responsibly. All outside vendors must be vetted thoroughly for fair labor practices and sustainable sources. 

The manufacturing process can be streamlined to reduce the consumption of natural resources.

Adopting practices that reduce carbon emissions, including the installation of smart sensors, improving last-mile delivery, etc. 

Using blockchain technology to authenticate the origins and integrity of products 

Proper collaboration with other companies that also strive towards sustainability. 

 Educating Employees 

Employees are among the greatest assets a company can possess. Unless employees are aware of sustainability practices or objectives, it won't be possible to be prepared for the future. 

When businesses educate their employees on sustainability, they can ensure cost reduction, reduce environmental impact, attract better talent, and secure favorable market credit. Research conducted in this area found that companies that empower employees for sustainability bring about lasting organizational change. 

So, how can companies educate their employees on sustainability? Let's look at some ways

The first step is for the higher management to communicate the importance of sustainability to all organizational levels. Highlighting the long-term purpose of sustainability is crucial. 

Regular training sessions must be conducted to help employees engage with sustainability initiatives. 

Companies should celebrate achievements and provide constructive feedback to motivate workers. 

Sustainability progress should be tracked via detailed performance reports. 

 From what we have discussed, it is clear that sustainability is the need of the hour. Corporate strategies that lack sustainability may render the business incompetent and non-resilient to future challenges. 

As per McKinsey 2024 Energy and Materials Perspectives, the vision of a net-zero future is moving at a slower pace than expected. This is only because companies are still struggling to meet the demands of a sustainable future. 

Has your firm started implementing the strategies we just discussed? If not, there is no time to waste.

Share in the comments below: Questions go here

[muridigital]

Global direct selling industry to reach $204.89 billion by 2032, says Transblue MD Akeem Ajisafe

The global direct selling industry is poised for significant growth, projected to reach a market value of $204.89 billion by 2032, according to Akeem Ajisafe, Managing Director of Transblue Ltd., a key QNET partner. Speaking during the second VCON 2024 Media Experience webinar organized by QNET, Ajisafe highlighted that the industry was valued at $167 billion in 2023, showcasing promising growth…