What is the Jelt Belt Project?
Jelt was established in 2014 as a cause-driven business—a company with a purpose to create sustainable products that everyone needs, then use the proceeds to give back to our community, our country, and the planet. The project centers on the production of Jelt belts, known for their durability, maximum strength, and lower carbon footprint. Crafted from recycled plastic bottles, these elastic belts showcase functional design and socially impactful manufacturing practices. Made in Montana, USA, every belt echoes a commitment to ethical business practices, local workforce empowerment, and sustainable consumption.
Main Benefits of the Jelt Belt
- 100% vegan, ensuring the product is cruelty-free while offering maximum durability.
- Manufactured in Bozeman, Montana, supporting good paying jobs and a local workforce.
- Crafted from recycled materials, reducing waste by turning plastic bottles into lasting, functional belts.
- Built with high-quality sustainable yarn, signature grippy gel, and Bluesign Approved buckles sourced from reputable companies in Taiwan and South Korea.
- Backed by a B Corporation score of 115.5, proving its commitment to excellent environmental and social performance.
Sustainable Manufacturing that Makes a Difference
Jelt belts are made with precision and care in Montana. In 2016, manufacturing moved from China to Montana—a decision that provides greater control over quality while creating good-paying, local jobs. The raw materials are shipped to Montana where local employees inspect, measure, cut, assemble, sew, and package each belt. This ethical production method not only guarantees the best belt you’ll ever wear but also champions responsible production practices that reduce environmental impacts and foster local economic growth… Truly a win-win!
Supporting Veterans, Youth, and the Environment
The impact of the Jelt Belt project goes beyond just providing stylish accessories. The initiative is deeply rooted in giving back to various segments of society. Jelt donates at least 2% of annual gross profits to organizations with dedicated missions. For veterans, the support goes to Warriors and Quiet Waters, an organization that heals America’s combat veterans and their families through the serene art of fly-fishing. For youth, THRIVE is the beneficiary, an organization committed to empowering children and strengthening families for a more resilient community. The environment also benefits through collaborations with non-profit organizations like Greater Yellowstone Coalition, Gallatin Valley Land Trust, and Oceana, each playing a vital role in conserving wildlife, water, and healthy ecosystems.
Ethical Sourcing and Global Partnerships
The journey of each Jelt elastic belt begins with responsibly sourced materials. Raw elastic is sourced from a company in China, known for access to high-quality sustainable yarn made from recycled plastic bottles. This yarn is carefully woven into high-performance elastic and finished with a signature grippy gel. Buckles are then sourced from companies in Taiwan and South Korea, both Bluesign Approved and compliant with certified Global Recycled Standards. These global partnerships ensure that every component that goes into a Jelt belt meets high environmental and ethical standards—a testament to a commitment that stretches across continents.
Quality, Craftsmanship, and a Local Touch
The emphasis on quality is evident throughout the entire manufacturing process, with each belt being individually crafted by a team of expert sewers. Made in Bozeman, Montana, these belts are thoughtfully designed not only for maximum durability and strength but also for comfort and style. Every step in the production—from material inspection and measurement to cutting, assembling, and sewing—is executed with the utmost attention to detail. The meticulous approach results in belts that are as robust as they are stylish, ensuring that customers receive something truly special that underscores the value of supporting local craftsmanship.
Project Impact on Sustainable Development Goals
- SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – by using recycled materials and ethical manufacturing practices.
- SDG 13: Climate Action – by lowering carbon footprint through sustainable production methods.
- SDG 15: Life on Land – by supporting wildlife and land conservation through donations to organizations dedicated to ecosystem health.
- SDG 14: Life Below Water – by contributing to conservation efforts that protect marine ecosystems.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Sustainable Fashion
The Jelt Belt project is a refreshing example of how sustainable practices and ethical manufacturing go hand in hand with quality and style. With a focus on reducing environmental impact and uplifting local communities, the project not only offers a product that stands as a hallmark in the apparel industry but also serves as a model for future sustainable initiatives in fashion. Using recycled materials, partnering with trusted suppliers, and supporting important causes like veterans’ rehabilitation, youth empowerment, and environmental conservation, each Jelt belt reflects a broader mission to make the world a better place. This dynamic approach, sprinkled with casual yet deliberate choices in production and impact, resonates with consumers looking for authenticity and responsibility in what they wear—a true reflection of sustainable progress. Enjoying a Jelt belt means celebrating a legacy of environmental stewardship, local empowerment, and global responsibility… a perfect blend of style, ethics, and innovation.
