Is The Tartan Blanket Co. ethical?

Overview

The Tartan Blanket Co. (TTBC) is a UK-based brand founded in 2014 by siblings Emma and Ben Mackay. The company specializes in tartan blankets, scarves, and accessories, with a strong focus on sustainability and ethical production. TTBC uses recycled wool, pure new wool, and cotton, all sourced from mills in the UK and Europe. Their flagship product, the Recycled Wool Knee Blanket, exemplifies their approach: made from 100% recycled wool, it carries an ethics score of 89/100. The brand has earned multiple certifications including B Corp (2021), 1% for the Planet, and Global Recycled Standard (GRS), making it a standout choice for eco-conscious consumers.

Certifications

• B Corp (since 2021): TTBC scored 96.1 in the 2023 assessment, placing them in the top tier of ethical businesses. This certifies their commitment to social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
• 1% for the Planet: Since 2020, TTBC donates 1% of annual sales to environmental nonprofits, focusing on rewilding and conservation projects in Scotland.
• Global Recycled Standard (GRS): Their recycled wool range, including the knee blanket, is GRS certified, ensuring the recycled content is verified and the supply chain meets strict social and environmental criteria.
• OEKO-TEX Standard 100: All products are tested for harmful substances, ensuring they are safe for skin and free from toxic chemicals.

Animal testing & vegan range

TTBC does not test on animals, and their entire supply chain is free from animal testing. However, they do use wool (including recycled wool) from sheep, so they are not a vegan brand. They offer a limited vegan-friendly range made from 100% recycled cotton, clearly labeled on their website. For strict vegans, the Recycled Wool Knee Blanket is not suitable, but the brand is transparent about material sourcing.

Sustainability pledges

TTBC has a comprehensive sustainability strategy. Key pledges include: achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2030, using only recycled or natural fibers by 2030, eliminating single-use plastics from packaging (already 100% plastic-free packaging), and partnering with climate-positive initiatives such as tree planting in the Scottish Highlands. They also offset unavoidable emissions through certified carbon offset projects. The 1% for the Planet commitment supports ongoing environmental restoration.

Sourcing & labor

All TTBC blankets are woven in family-run mills in the UK (Scotland and Yorkshire) and Europe (Portugal and Italy). These mills are audited for fair labor practices, safe working conditions, and no child labor. The brand is a living wage employer and ensures all workers in their supply chain are paid fairly. They publish a list of all mills and their locations on their website, demonstrating transparency. For the recycled wool, sourcing is from post-consumer waste and pre-consumer textile scraps, processed in Europe under GRS-certified recycling standards.

Controversies context

There are no major controversies on record for The Tartan Blanket Co. They have maintained a clean public record with no scandals, lawsuits, or labor violations. Customer reviews consistently praise their quality and ethical stance. Minor critiques from some consumers include the higher price point (justified by the certifications and recycled materials) and limited vegan options. The brand has responded constructively to feedback, expanding their recycled cotton line.

Bottom line

The Tartan Blanket Co. is a top-rated ethical brand, particularly for those seeking wool products. Their high-level certifications, transparent supply chain, and proactive sustainability efforts make the Recycled Wool Knee Blanket a solid purchase. Vegans may need to look at the recycled cotton range, but for everyone else, TTBC offers a compelling combination of heritage, comfort, and ethics. Score: 89/100, recommended with confidence.