How the Fashion Industry Creates Pollution and Waste - and What We Can Do
Posted by HANNAH HAYES
Did you know the fashion industry is one of the biggest contributors to pollution and waste worldwide? The fast fashion culture has created a throwaway culture where clothes are produced cheaply and quickly, only to be discarded after a few wears. This has led to an exponential increase in textile waste, with the average American throwing away 80 pounds of clothes each year.
The production of clothes is also a major contributor to pollution. The textile industry uses large amounts of water, energy, and chemicals in the production process. The use of synthetic materials such as polyester and nylon further adds to the pollution, as these materials are not biodegradable and can take hundreds of years to decompose. That’s why we use a biodegradable fabric.
Additionally, the transportation of clothes from factories to stores and then to consumers also contributes to pollution. The emissions from trucks, ships, and airplanes used in the transportation process further add to the carbon footprint of the fashion industry.
To combat the pollution and waste caused by the fashion industry, there are a few steps we can take as consumers.
Firstly, we can choose to buy clothes made from sustainable materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, or linen. These materials are biodegradable and require less water and energy to produce.
We can also choose to buy from brands that are committed to sustainable and ethical practices. These brands often have certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard or Fairtrade, which ensure that the clothes are made using sustainable and ethical practices.
Finally, we can reduce our consumption of clothes by buying less and choosing to wear what we already own. We can also donate clothes that we no longer need to local charities or thrift stores.
In conclusion, the fashion industry has a significant impact on the environment due to the pollution and waste it generates. As consumers, we have the power to make a difference by choosing to support sustainable and ethical brands and reducing our consumption of clothes. By taking these steps, we can help create a more sustainable future for the fashion industry and the planet as a whole.
