Understanding the impact of the fast-fashion industry
Did you know that the fashion industry is responsible for 8 to 10% of global emissions? The accepted format of mass-producing cheap, trend-chasing clothing means that millions of pieces end up in landfill each year and making them requires pollutants like oil, chemicals and vast quantities of water.
Britons buy more clothes than any others in Europe, so it’s time we all did our bit to end the cycle. Here are four simple ways you can shop more sustainably and help safeguard the planet.
How to shop more sustainably
- Choosing quality for longevity
How often do you have to replace your clothes and shoes? Mass-produced pieces can be poorly made, with glued and roughly stitched sections vulnerable to wear and tear and cheap fabric that becomes bobbly or thin after just a few washes. This means we cycle through our wardrobe quickly, regularly having to throw out and buy new pieces, perpetuating the cycle.
Choosing quality pieces can save you money in the long run, despite the higher price tag. Carefully crafted from superior materials with attention to detail such as hand-stitching, these clothes and shoes wash and wear well and will last you years. Try to select timeless styles rather than trending designs for additional longevity.
- Considering product materials
Much of the clothing on the market is polyester, a type of plastic manufactured from petroleum. It’s not biodegradable and sheds micro-plastics during wear, and producing it pollutes our air and water.
Look for natural fabric alternatives, like linen and cotton, which have the benefit of being breathable and durable. You could also consider the pros and cons of leather vs pleather, or avoid buying either and swap to sustainable shoes, bags and belts instead. Remember that gemstones are not necessarily mined responsibly, and check jeweller credentials before investing or go for lab-grown.
- Buying second-hand or renting
In recent years, online platforms selling second-hand clothes such as Vinted are making it easier to reuse and recycle. You can find unworn and nearly new pieces at bargain prices and sell your own neglected pieces to an appreciative home. On the high streets, you can find pre-owned watches from leading brands and beautiful second-hand jewellery from earlier eras, pop-ups selling revamped rescued retro clothes and charity shops concealing hidden gems within the rails.
For special events where you require a one-off outfit, such as weddings, you could consider renting. This can be a cheaper avenue to occasion dressing and lets you meet the latest trends without being guilty of waste.
- Supporting ethical brands
As sustainability is becoming increasingly important to consumers, more and more companies are doing their bit for the planet. Look for fashion brands with eco-accreditations like B-Corp certification, which recognise their commitment to environmental and social responsibility, and which champion their uniquely sustainable practices like using less water to craft their denim.
Consider packing and delivery promises, too. Do you need to receive your parcel as soon as tomorrow, or could you choose to collect in store? Small changes in your shopping habits can help make big differences to the planet.
