Ocean SF Summer Interns & Why 85% of Clothing Ends Up in Landfills

Summer 2025 Leadership Internship

Since 2021 I have spent countless hours every summer developing future leaders and driving change in the apparel industry. What could be a better use of my time?

This year, I have six interns (four pictured above), with three returning from last year. It’s gratifying to know that their time with me is valuable and worth repeating. My interns this year are from UC Santa Barbara, SLO, UC Berkeley and Duke.

I am very thankful to have them, as they breathe fresh life into this brand of mine that I love so much. It is also an honor to watch them grow and mature virtually before my very eyes, and I am grateful to be part of the process.

Ocean SF is committed to sustainability and driving awareness on the dangers of not paying attention to what we buy and wear.

Every year, the world produces over 100 billion garments — yet most people wear only a fraction of what’s in their closets. In the U.S. alone, over 34 billion pounds of textiles are discarded annually, and 85% of that ends up in landfills or is incinerated, according to the EPA. That means nearly 11 million tons of clothing are trashed — not recycled, not repurposed, just wasted.

Even more alarming:

  • The average American throws away 81 pounds of clothing each year.
  • Synthetic fabrics like polyester can take up to 200 years to break down.m and pollute drinking water.
  • Globally, the fashion industry contributes 10% of all carbon emissions and is the second-largest consumer of water worldwide.
  • Less than 1% of clothing is recycled into new garments.

At Ocean SF, we’re committed to slowing this cycle.

Ocean SF was created with one mission in mind: to design clothing that respects the planet and the people who wear it. We focus on timeless styles crafted from natural, biodegradable fibers like organic cotton, linen, and sustainable blends — instead of synthetics that pollute waterways and persist in landfills.

We keep our production runs small and intentional, minimizing overstock and waste. Our garments are versatile, seasonless, and durable, allowing you to wear them longer, wash them less frequently, and still feel confident every time you put them on.

Sustainability is the foundation of Ocean SF

From sourcing to packaging, we make mindful decisions that reduce our environmental impact. We encourage our customers to buy less but better, to care for their clothes, and to invest in pieces that last.

Join us

  • Choose natural fibers over synthetics.
  • Wash with care — cold water, less often, and air dry when possible.
  • Support brands that prioritize sustainability, transparency, and ethical production.
  • Donate or repurpose clothing you no longer wear.

When you buy Ocean SF you are supporting a movement toward a more thoughtful, regenerative fashion industry.

You will be hearing more about our Summer 85 project in the days ahead.

Love and Blessings,

Sydney

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