My experience

Overview

My main project was writing an document that would assess new companies' innovative, animal replacement materials for use in fashion, homegood and automotive, based on sustainability, sourcing, and sensory properties. I was specifically focused on leather (by far the largest focus right now) that is made from plants/fruit, as opposed to leather that is cultivated in the lab, fermented, or made from the root of a mushroom (mycelium). The non-profit (MII) had a list of partner companies that have created these materials. I had 0 knowledge about the fashion industry going in, so I did deep dives into literature about fast fashion and the leather industry first. Then I read patents, interviews CEO's and lead scientists, and read technical papers to find out as much information as I could about how they create their material, from beginning to goal for end of life. I then assessed each process, grouped them together, and wrote an extensive report and created graphics. These documents would serve as a tool when investing to companies like Nike, Burberry, Gucci, etc. to use sustainable replacements for leather where ever they can. In my time (~30hr/week), I completed a first draft that will have my name as the first author.

Loved this experience, but it is not for everyone. I have a huge passion for sustainability, so I was willing to put in the work and though the position is unpaid, I got a paid job out of it. They are only in their 1st year so it's a learning process *with* them. They all care about everyone who works there so it's great.