#ethical practices

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Strive for Sustainable Style - YLF

[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]

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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...

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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.

[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.

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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

[amethystamaris]

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Standing Out From the Crowd: A Look at Sebastian Cruz Couture's Bold and Bespoke Fashion

Looking to elevate your style with garments that exude confidence and individuality? Look no further than Sebastian Cruz Couture. This brand, established in 2013, caters to the discerning gentleman seeking clothing that breaks the mold of traditional menswear. Bold Designs for the Discerning Man Sebastian Cruz Couture thrives on audacious design. Their collections boast an array of eye-catching…

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Starting an Ethical Halal Business: Key Pointers for Success

Launching a Halal Business with Integrity and Ethics Starting a halal business goes beyond obtaining a halal certification; it requires a commitment to ethical practices and values that resonate with the principles of Islam. Here are some key pointers to help you establish and run an ethical halal business: 1. Understand the Principles of Halal Educate yourself about the principles of halal in…

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Fashion inspiration can be found in the latest trends in fabric-based fashion, which offer a wide range of options for individuals to express their personal style and creativity. From luxurious silk and velvet to innovative sustainable materials, the fashion industry is constantly evolving to provid...

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Examining the Ethical Practices of Cider Production: Sustainability and Responsibility

The ethical practices surrounding cider production encompass a range of considerations related to sustainability, responsible sourcing, and environmental stewardship. Let's explore the key aspects that contribute to the ethical standards upheld within the cider industry:

Sustainable Orchard Management: Ethical cider producers prioritize sustainable orchard management practices that promote biodiversity, soil health, and ecosystem resilience. By implementing regenerative agriculture techniques, minimizing pesticide and fertilizer use, and preserving natural habitats, cider producers reduce their environmental impact and support healthy ecosystems.

Responsible Ingredient Sourcing: Ethical cider production begins with responsible ingredient sourcing, including the procurement of high-quality apples from local orchards and sustainable agricultural practices. Cider producers prioritize partnerships with growers who adhere to fair labor practices, ethical treatment of farm workers, and environmental conservation principles.

Water Conservation and Efficiency: Water conservation is a critical aspect of ethical cider production, given the significant water requirements involved in cidermaking processes. Cider producers implement water-saving technologies, optimize water use efficiency, and prioritize water stewardship initiatives to minimize their water footprint and protect freshwater resources.

Waste Reduction and Recycling: Ethical cider producers strive to minimize waste and promote recycling throughout the production process. From apple pomace and fruit waste to packaging materials and byproducts, cider producers explore opportunities for waste reduction, composting, and material reuse to minimize environmental impact and promote circular economy principles.

Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy: Cider producers embrace energy efficiency measures and invest in renewable energy sources to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. By adopting energy-efficient equipment, implementing energy management systems, and harnessing solar or wind power, cider producers demonstrate a commitment to clean energy and environmental sustainability.

Transparent Supply Chains: Ethical cider producers maintain transparent supply chains and traceability systems that provide visibility into the origin, production methods, and social impact of their products. By engaging with consumers and stakeholders, cider producers foster trust, accountability, and dialogue around ethical sourcing and production practices.

Community Engagement and Support: Cider producers actively engage with local communities, support small-scale growers and producers, and contribute to community development initiatives. By investing in local economies, promoting cultural heritage, and participating in community events, cider producers strengthen social ties and enhance the well-being of the communities they serve.

Certifications and Standards: Ethical cider producers may seek certification from recognized third-party organizations that verify adherence to sustainable and ethical standards. Certifications such as organic, fair trade, or biodynamic provide assurance to consumers regarding the ethical and environmental credentials of cider products, fostering trust and credibility in the marketplace.

In conclusion, ethical cider production encompasses a holistic approach to sustainability, responsibility, and environmental stewardship. By embracing sustainable practices, responsible sourcing, and community engagement, cider producers contribute to a more ethical and sustainable cider industry that benefits both people and the planet.