Exploring a more sustainable Knightsbridge

Knightsbridge is renowned for its fashion scene; it’s where heritage meets innovation. Which is why we’re starting off strong with Burberry. Famed for its heritage patterns, Burberry has made strides in sustainability. The fashion house aims to achieve climate positive status by 2040, implementing science-based targets to reduce carbon emissions and eliminating plastic packaging. Additionally, the brand has launched initiatives to empower disadvantaged youth, reflecting social responsibility alongside environmental efforts. Similarly, nearby Crockett & Jones, a brand synonymous with fine English footwear, is on its own sustainable journey. Minimising waste through recycling initiatives and prioritising ethical sourcing in its supply chain are just two of the ways it’s committed to sustainability. Another British favourite upping its game is Rixo.

Available in-store at Harvey Nichols, the vintage-inspired brand, dedicated to empowering women through fashion, has adopted a recycling programme at its headquarters and uses 100 per cent recycled packaging on all its orders. At its flagship store on nearby King’s Road, visual merchandising is a masterful blend of recycled materials, dead stock and natural finds.

Indulging in self-care around Knightsbridge doesn’t mean compromising on sustainability either. Located on the fourth floor of Harvey Nichols, Jo Hansford embodies eco-consciousness, from eco-saving taps to its partnership with the Green Salon Collective, a beauty recycling solutions company. The salon even transforms its hair clippings into booms (temporary floating barriers), deploying them along shorelines to halt the spread of oil spills – a small yet impactful contribution to environmental preservation. Located on Thurloe Street,GA Salons distinguishes itself by providing hair colouring services using 100 per cent natural products. This approach ensures the preservation of hair health and vibrancy while minimising environmental impact.

Let’s talk dining. Knightsbridge’s food scene offers a plethora of sustainable options to tantalise your taste buds.For those seeking a true culinary experience,The Lanesborough Hotel offers an unparalleled dining experience, with a menu celebrating the best of British produce and partnerships with local artisans. These include H Forman & Son and Keltic Seafare for seafood and fish, and London-based HG Walter and Sutton Hoo Farm for meat and poultry.

Next up on our list is Dinner by Heston Blumenthal at the Mandarin Oriental Hyde Park, London. ‘The Luncheon’ is a new lunchtime menu that delves into historical sustainability through timeless recipes dating back to the 17th century. Led by head chef Adam Tooby-Desmond, the menu showcases dishes including Ragoo of Pigs Ear on Toast and Pineapple and Cardamom Tart, reimagining historical culinary practices to address modern food-waste challenges. At the world-famous Harrods Food Halls, the commitment to sustainability is evident through charity partnerships, employee volunteering, and fundraising efforts. Harrods’ culinary artisans prioritise ethical sourcing and ensuring ingredients reflect environmental consciousness. Additionally, it’s a proud supporter of Refettorio Felix at St Cuthbert’s Centre, a south London charity addressing homelessness and food waste, while empowering employees to volunteer with charities such as Hubbub, fostering meaningful engagement with local causes.

If you’re still craving a sweet treat to round off your trip – why not visit one of Knightsbridge’s many bakeries or cafes. Feya, a brunch and afternoon-tea haven, champions organic, vegan and gluten-free options while combating food waste through innovative partnerships with Olio and Too Good To Go. If that wasn’t sweet enough, Feya’s retail line – selling everything from tinned saffron to pretty hampers – donates 10 per cent of profits to its Feya Cares charity, which aims to empower women and reduce the gender gap. Also, make a pitstop at Knoops at 130 Brompton Road for one of its deliciously chocolatey hot drinks. Knoops prioritises the use of environmentally friendly materials and has partnered with Firetree to work directly with cocoa farmers and make all of its chocolate in the UK.

Sarah Roker is a freelance copywriter and journalist who has worked at Net-A-Porter and written for sustainable fashion and lifestyle platform The Forward Lab