Why fast-fashion is killing our planet
Fast-fashion has taken over the fashion industry in recent years, with retailers offering new, trendy clothes at a low price point. While this may seem like a good thing for consumers, the reality is that fast-fashion is killing our planet.
Here are some reasons why.
1. Overconsumption
Fast-fashion encourages overconsumption by promoting the idea that we need to constantly update our wardrobes with new, trendy pieces. As a result, people are buying more clothes than ever before, which leads to a significant amount of waste.
According to the World Resources Institute, the average person buys 60% more clothing than they did 15 years ago and keeps each item for half as long.
2. Fast-fashion is one of the largest consumers of water in the world
It’s estimated that the fashion industry uses 1.5 trillion liters of water every year, which is equivalent to the water consumed by 600 million people.
From growing cotton and other fibers to dyeing and finishing textiles, water is an essential resource in fashion production.
For instance, producing just one cotton t-shirt can require up to 2,700 liters of water. Furthermore, the production of synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon also requires vast amounts of water. The dyeing and finishing process of textiles also requires large amounts of water, with many dye houses and finishing plants located in countries where water is already scarce.
The impact of fast-fashion on water goes beyond the production process. The disposal of fast-fashion clothing also contributes to water pollution. Synthetic fibers do not biodegrade, and when they are discarded, they can end up in waterways, where they release microplastics that can harm aquatic life and enter the food chain.
3. Carbon Footprint
The fashion industry is responsible for a significant amount of carbon emissions, with fast-fashion being a major contributor. From the production process to shipping and transportation, the fast-fashion industry creates a large carbon footprint.
According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions and is the second-largest polluter in the world, after the oil industry.
4. Chemicals and Waste
Fast-fashion relies on the use of chemicals and synthetic fibers, which can be harmful to both the environment and human health. The production process also creates a significant amount of waste, with many fast-fashion items being discarded after just a few wears.
In 2015, it was estimated that the fashion industry produced 92 million tons of waste.
5. Landfills
Fast-fashion items are often made from synthetic fibers, which do not biodegrade. As a result, they end up in landfills, where they take up space and release harmful chemicals into the environment.
The Ellen MacArthur Foundation estimates that the equivalent of one garbage truck of textiles is landfilled or incinerated every second.
6. Unsustainable Production
Fast-fashion companies prioritize fast and cheap production over sustainability. They use low-quality materials and unethical labor practices to produce clothing quickly and at a low cost. This results in a high level of pollution and waste, as well as poor working conditions for garment workers. This leads to social inequality, which can lead to low wages, unsafe working conditions, child labor, discrimination, and a lack of worker representation. It is important for consumers to be aware of these issues and support fashion brands and outlets that prioritize sustainability.
Over and above, the industry often lacks transparency in its production processes, making it difficult for consumers to know the true environmental and social impact of the clothing they buy. This lack of transparency makes it challenging for consumers to make informed decisions about their purchases, leading to continued support for unsustainable production practices.
In conclusion, fast-fashion is killing our planet in many ways, from overconsumption and unsustainable production to chemicals and waste. It’s important for consumers to be aware of the impact of their shopping habits and make more sustainable choices when it comes to fashion. By supporting sustainable and ethical brands, investing in quality clothing, and reducing consumption, we can all do our part to create a more sustainable fashion industry.
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