A 2023 study conducted by the online platform LEED Initiative revealed that people purchase approximately 56 million tonnes of clothing each year. Unfortunately, fast fashion is responsible for generating vast amounts of unused fabric.
Notably, this industry thrives on overconsumption, characterised by quick turnover, high volume and low prices. The increasing purchasing power of consumers has sharply elevated the demand for clothes, but these garments are worn for shorter periods of time. This situation creates a vicious cycle where the industry is pressured to meet the constant desire for up-to-the-minute styles.
While concepts like sustainable and circular fashion are possible, they have not been widely implemented yet. Large fashion companies like GU and H&M say they have committed to working only with suppliers that adhere to certain social and environmental standards. They call for compliance throughout their supply chains and promote a cascade of sustainable practices. Although these ethical initiatives are commendable, they can be difficult to implement.
Companies and suppliers are concerned about a lack of support, especially for small textile firms. Suppliers often cannot access environmental programmes or obtain cost-effective, eco-friendly fabrics without sufficient government subsidies.
Fabric-oriented industries also contribute significantly to water waste. According to a video shared by the World Wide Fund, producing a single cotton T-shirt requires 2,700 litres of water, equivalent to one person’s drinking water consumption for two and a half years.
As consumers, we have an obligation to boycott fast fashion. By doing so, we not only alleviate the burden on the clothing industry but also ensure that garment production is free from harmful chemicals.
There is a common misconception that sustainable fashion is expensive. In reality, investing in slow fashion items can save money in the long run, as well-made and timeless items can last for years without going out of style.
We can extend the life cycle of our clothes by reselling unwanted items to friends or donating to charity organisations. Whenever possible, we should seek out natural and organic fabrics with the proper certifications, as they have the least social and environmental impact.
In the UK, support for a more eco-friendly industry is provided through the Sustainable Clothing Action Plan. It is a voluntary agreement that sets targets for reducing carbon emissions, water usage, and waste and has been effective.
In conclusion, while fast fashion may offer affordability and convenience, there is no denying its environmental impact. It is the clothing industry’s primary responsibility and objective to address this issue and cut down on textile waste.
When individuals take steps towards sustainable living, fast fashion will no longer be the norm, and a more eco-friendly lifestyle can be achieved.