Fast fashion is a modern term that has in the past been used to mean the fast production of cheaper clothes, even in the highest price category. As upbeat as the term seems to be, the cost there is the degradation that the clothes have caused to the environment. Such knowledge on the effect of fast fashion and shopping responsibly can be beneficial as far as the protection of the earth is concerned.
Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion
Water Pollution and Usage
The fashion industry consumes one of the highest rates of water. A single cotton T-shirt consumes about 2,700 liters of water in its making. In addition, the dyeing and the finishing of the material pose as a significant water contaminant. It is done in a sloppy manner in factories, and the wastewater is discharged to the rivers without any treatment. The water contains hazardous chemicals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic. This leads to water pollution, consumable for aquatic and human beings.
Textile Waste
Fast fashion leads to a throwaway society. Products are cheaply produced and often disposed of after a minimal number of uses. In a 2021 report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, it was suggested nearly 92 million tonnes of textile waste are produced yearly on a global basis. A majority of this waste ends up in landfills, with some synthetic fibers taking centuries to fully decompose.
Carbon Emissions
There is a high contribution of greenhouse gas emissions from the manufacturing and transportation of clothing. The fashion industry was reported by the United Nations as contributing approximately 10% of global carbon emissions in 2021; a figure higher, but just slightly higher, than the combined emissions from international flights and maritime shipping.
Microplastics
Fast fashion is created using synthetic fibers such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic. These fabrics discharge large quantities of microscopic plastic particles known as microplastics when washed. These microplastics eventually make their way into the ocean, where they infiltrate the food chain through animals that ingest them and later affect human health.
How to Shop Responsibly
Buy Less, Choose Well
Buying fewer items and choosing the best ones is the simplest way to get rid of the negative impact of fast fashion. Invest in timeless, high-quality items that are less likely to go out of style—a classic. Build back better by supporting sustainable brands.
Support Sustainable brands
Many brands have now shifted their focus to more sustainable ways of doing business. They give ethical labor top priority, utilize eco-friendly materials, foster energy-efficient production, and in a nutshell are environmentally friendly. In India, brands such as No Nasties and Doodlage are pioneers in sustainable fashion.
Second-Hand and Vintage Shopping
One may consider purchasing second-hand or vintage clothing for a lesser amount of waste going on in the environment. One can spot a number of thrift shops, online platforms, or vintage stores that can offer you something truly unique and integrated in character to help build your wardrobe, avoiding of course the environmental cost that accompanies new clothes.
Upcycling and Repairing
Consider upcycling or even mending old clothes before you throw them away. Upcycling involves making new things out of old clothes, and upcycling occurs when you breathe new life into an old favorite. Simple sewing skills can help to protect your wardrobe.
Conscious Consumerism
A conscious consumer is one who is responsible for the effect their purchases have on the environment. Always look into details about brands and their practices before making any purchases. Fair Trade, Global Organic Textile Standard, B Corp, and similar certifications prove that an entity is ensuring sustainability.
Conclusion
The effects of fast fashion on the environment are devastating, but we have the power to change it with our shopping choices. Buying less, buying slowly, buying pre-loved, upcycled, repairable, and restorable clothes will reduce our carbon footprint in the fashion sector. Let's use fashion's power for good—one responsible purchase at a time.