When it comes to clothing, many of us often focus on style, comfort or affordability as our main buying points. But there’s another important factor that deserves our attention too and that’s sustainability. Responsible sourcing and sustainable practices in the fashion industry aren’t just trends, they’re absolutely essential for the wellbeing of our planet and future generations. Here’s what you need to know.
Quality Over Quantity
Sustainable clothing can come with a slightly higher price tag, and there’s a reason for that. When we invest in responsibly sourced garments, we’re investing in durability and longevity. These pieces are often crafted with higher quality materials and superior craftsmanship, meaning they’re built to last. Sustainable clothing companies will also pay their workers a fair wage, unlike the exploitative practices that many fast fashion businesses rely on to keep their costs low. While fast fashion items may seem like a bargain initially, they often lose their shape and colour after just a few washes, leading to more frequent replacements and ultimately more waste. You also don’t know what kind of conditions people who made these items were forced to work in.
Environmental Impact of Fast Fashion
The fashion industry is notorious for its environmental footprint. From water pollution to greenhouse gas emissions, the production and disposal of clothing take a toll on our planet. Did you know that it takes about 2,700 litres of water to produce a single cotton T-shirt? And that’s just one piece of clothing! Fast fashion’s reliance on cheap labour and synthetic materials further exacerbates the problem, contributing to deforestation, soil degradation, and toxic chemical pollution.
The Lifecycle of Fast Fashion
You might wonder where do all those cheaply made, quickly discarded garments end up? Sadly, the majority of them end up in landfills. In fact, the equivalent of one garbage truck of textiles is dumped into landfills or incinerated every second. These clothes take decades, if not centuries, to decompose, releasing harmful chemicals and greenhouse gases in the process. Not to mention the resources wasted in their production and transportation. Choosing sustainable clothing on the other hand isn’t just about minimizing harm; it’s alsoee4r about making a positive impact. By supporting brands that prioritize ethical sourcing and eco-friendly practices, we’re sending a message to the industry that sustainability matters too. Many sustainable fashion brands partner with local artisans and communities, empowering them economically and preserving traditional craftsmanship. There are tons of great responsible yet fashion forward brands out there so you don’t need to compromise on style, take Deso Supply Co. for example. They produce clothing locally in California and are handmade and natural.
Small Changes, Big Results
Making the switch to sustainable clothing doesn’t need you to do a lot of extra work when you’re shopping. Start by educating yourself about the brands you support and their practices. Look for certifications like Fair Trade or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) to ensure transparency and accountability. Consider buying second hand or participating in clothing swaps to give preloved garments a new lease on life too. Every small step towards sustainability counts! As consumers, we hold the power to drive change in the fashion industry. By demanding transparency, ethical practices, and sustainable alternatives, we can push brands to prioritize people and the planet over profit.
