From Seed to Soak: A Sustainable Towel Life Cycle Assessment
Project scope
Categories
Data analysis Market research Project management Environmental sustainability Marketing strategySkills
life cycle assessment project planning impact assessment communication marketing packaging and labeling marketing strategies energy consumption infographics environmental certificationMINOA is committed to sustainable product development and transparent communication. The company seeks to conduct a comprehensive Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) of its signature products, including the linen/cotton Cottage Towel and the 820-gram Monte Rosa plush terry towel. The goal is to generate insights to support Minoa's environmental certification and circular design efforts. This project will involve a detailed analysis of the environmental impacts associated with these towels' production, use, and disposal. A side-by-side lifecycle and cost comparison will be conducted between Minoa's towels and low-cost mass-market alternatives. This comparison will help highlight the sustainability benefits and potential cost implications of choosing Minoa's products over conventional options. The project aims to provide actionable insights to guide future product development and marketing strategies.
1) Project Plan & Scope Document
a) Define system boundaries (cradle-to-grave), selected products (Cottage Towel and Monte Rosa), and LCA methodology.
2) Data Collection Report
a) Gather primary and secondary data on raw materials, manufacturing, transport, packaging, use phase, and end-of-life.
3) Life Cycle Model using LCA Software
a) Build a model using OpenLCA or SimaPro.
b) Model impact categories such as carbon footprint, water use, energy consumption, and waste.
c) Submit screenshots and working files as part of documentation.
4) Impact Assessment Report
a) Analyze environmental hotspots.
b) Provide a comparative benchmark vs conventional towel alternatives (Walmart/IKEA/Amazon).
c) Present all findings in a written report (5–8 pages) with supporting charts and visuals.
5) Durability Cost-Impact Chart
a) Create a clear infographic showing the long-term economic and environmental benefits of Minoa’s durability vs fast-fashion brands.
6) Sustainability Recommendations Memo
a) Offer actionable ideas to reduce the environmental impact of the products, improve packaging, or enhance circularity. (2 pages max)
7) Slide Deck for Stakeholders
a) Design a professional 8–10 slide presentation summarizing findings, impact, and recommendations.
b) To be used by Minoa for internal stakeholders, retail buyers, or investor meetings.
8) Marketing Snapshot (Optional but Encouraged)
a) Create a one-page consumer-friendly graphic or text block highlighting the LCA results for use on a website or product page (e.g., “Our towels use 50% less water over 10 years”).
Providing specialized, in-depth knowledge and general industry insights for a comprehensive understanding.
Sharing knowledge in specific technical skills, techniques, methodologies required for the project.
Scheduled check-ins to discuss progress, address challenges, and provide feedback.
Supported causes
The global challenges this project addresses, aligning with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Learn more about all 17 SDGs here.
About the company
Representation
Diversity and inclusion
Categories highlighting this company’s ownership and values
Small Business Family-Owned Sustainable/green Social Enterprise Public benefit corporation (pbc) Community-FocusedMinoa Home Inc.: Ethical Luxury in Every Thread
Based in Toronto, Minoa Home Inc. crafts premium, eco-conscious home textiles for a discerning clientele. Operating on the Shopify platform, we cater to individual consumers and businesses, emphasizing a business model that prioritizes people and the Planet.
Social Impact and Sustainability at the Core:
Minoa is dedicated to empowering women, both locally and globally. For every towel sold directly to consumers, we donate one to women’s shelters in the US and Canada, supporting SDG #5 to empower women and girls. Furthermore, our production chain primarily employs women (80%), ensuring they are empowered through fair employment practices.
Our commitment to environmental stewardship is unwavering. As proud members of 1% for the Planet, we contribute 1% of all revenue to environmental initiatives, striving to minimize our carbon footprint. We are on a mission to become Canada’s first circular towel brand, continuously innovating to keep our products both luxurious and environmentally responsible.
Experience the Best:
At Minoa, we offer more than just towels and linens; we provide a gateway to indulging in luxury while making a positive impact. Our products, made from natural and organic materials, promise superior quality and foster sustainable practices that help heal the Planet.
Join us in redefining comfort and luxury with every fiber of our being—where every purchase supports a woman, a community, and the Planet.
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Toronto, Ontario, Canada