Storm Creek, an Eagan-based apparel brand, is leading the charge in sustainability by turning plastic waste into clothing, while also educating and engaging the community.
Storm Creek, an apparel brand headquartered in Eagan, Minnesota, is making significant strides in the realm of sustainability by transforming plastic waste into clothing. The company has adopted a comprehensive approach to upcycling, which involves sourcing postconsumer plastic bottles that are meticulously processed and converted into polyester fibers used to create various apparel items, including jackets, vests, shirts, and pants.
Founded in 1995 by Doug Jackson, Storm Creek initially focused on outdoor apparel. However, in 2014, the company shifted its emphasis towards sourcing eco-friendly materials and sustainable business practices. To spearhead this initiative, Teresa Fudenberg was appointed as the new CEO, a position she has held since her hiring. Following her appointment, Fudenberg and Jackson, who serves as the company’s president, married, which has further strengthened their partnership in both business and personal life.
The company’s commitment to sustainability is evident in its unique approach to production. Storm Creek collaborates with mill partners to ensure the proper cleaning and processing of the plastic bottles. This meticulous attention to the supply chain allows Storm Creek to track the number of plastic bottles utilized in each garment. For instance, the Overachiever jacket contains approximately 42 upcycled plastic bottles, with the specific number varying according to size.
In addition to its production methods, Storm Creek emphasizes the importance of education in promoting sustainability. Fudenberg has established the Storm Creek Sustainability School™, which serves as a platform for educating customers, employees, and partners about sustainable practices. The school conducts regular presentations and webinars focused on crucial topics such as water usage, carbon emissions, sustainable fabrics, and supply chain transparency.
Storm Creek also has a philanthropic angle, with an ambitious goal of donating $5 million to various charities by the year 2030. The recipients of these donations include organizations such as Twin Cities Big Brothers Big Sisters, Feeding America, and the National Park Foundation. As reported, the company is currently about halfway toward achieving this goal.
The scope of Storm Creek’s upcycling efforts is substantial; in 2024 alone, the company successfully upcycled 46 million plastic bottles, with plans to increase this number to at least 65 million in 2025. This initiative not only reflects Storm Creek’s commitment to reducing plastic waste but also demonstrates the brand’s broader mission to engage the community and promote sustainable living.
Source: Noah Wire Services
