LCF X Selyn: Using blockchain to make supply chains more transparent
- Written byK. Apeagyei
- Published date 24 March 2023
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London College of Fashion students teamed up with Selyn, Sri Lanka's only fair trade and leading handloom manufacturer, to pioneer blockchain technology integration with traditional craft and design.
On 15 March 2023, the Fashion Business School hosted an event with Selyn at SOOK 42 South Molton Street, London, which showcased the potential of LCF students at the forefront of creativity, leading global crafts.
The event's highlight was the 'Sandra' Clapping Bag, which was designed through a collaborative project between LCF and Selyn. More than 25 LCF students were given the task of redefining the use and potential of handloom textiles to create a modern and stylish bag that would appeal to a global consumer, incorporating blockchain technology.
The project's goal is to promote greater transparency of supply chains, from fibre to consumer, by measuring and reporting the impact within communities using blockchain technology. Visitors to the launch event could scan an NFC tag to see the production process's impact and transparency, including the fibre and dyeing process, the artisan who wove the textiles, and the impact on communities and the environment. This initiative was also undertaken in partnership with PaperTale Sweden.
Overall, the project exemplifies the Fashion Business School's commitment to sustainability values around purpose, people, planet, and profit. It continues our mission to provide a high-quality creative education to more students than ever before.
Around this time last year, Selyn was working with all three schools at LCF: the Fashion Business School, School of Design and Technology, and School of Media and Communication, to explore alternative models of designing, business development, and teamwork by co-creating across the supply chain. The recent event crystallises that relationship and is a celebration of craft and collaboration and represents an exciting milestone in LCF’s and Selyn's partnership.
About Selyn
Selyn is committed to the ethical and sustainable production of handwoven textiles, an integral part of Sri Lanka's 2500-year cultural heritage. All textiles at the event were organic, fair trade, vegan, and cruelty-free, handmade by local artisans supporting and inspiring communities around Sri Lanka.
For more information please email h.middleton@arts.ac.uk or e.silva@fashion.arts.ac.uk.
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