Reasons Why Sustainable Fashion Is Important

With so many problems going on these days - climate change, plastic pollution, deforestation, loss of coral reefs & biodiversity, and water scarcity, just to name a few - the fashion industry is not necessarily on the top of mind for most people as either a problem or solution. However, we regret to inform you that the clothing industry is filthy and contributes significantly to environmental and human damage. The good news is that sustainable fashion addresses many of these issues in unexpected ways.

WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE FASHION?

Sustainable fashion brands design clothing with humanity and the environment in mind, minimizing environmental impact wherever possible. The ultimate goal is to have a system that works without leaving a trace.

Here are five reasons why sustainable fashion is important.

1. SUSTAINABLE FASHION SAVES NATURAL RESOURCES

According to a recent study, 97 percent of what goes into making clothes is new resources, with only 3 percent being recycled materials. This equates to an annual resource input of 98 million tonnes, which includes oil used to make synthetic fibers, fertilizers used to grow cotton, and an endless list of chemicals used to dye and finish fabric.

Recycled fibers have proven to be a much more sustainable option, as they reduce the demand for virgin resources and address the growing waste management issue.

2. SUSTAINABLE FASHION REDUCES YOUR CARBON FOOTPRINT

The global fashion industry emits a significant amount of greenhouse gases each year, actively contributing to global warming. One of the reasons is that the vast majority of our beloved clothes, such as polyester, acrylic, and nylon, are petroleum-based and made from fossil fuels. These materials require far more energy to manufacture than natural or recycled fibers.

On the other hand, sustainable brands frequently use materials made from natural or recycled fabrics that require little to no chemical treatment, little water, less energy, and no fertilizers or pesticides to grow. Most organic fabrics, including linen, hemp, and organic cotton, are biodegradable. These eco-friendly fabrics are gentle on the environment and are excellent sustainable alternatives.

3. SUSTAINABLE FASHION REQUIRES LESS WATER

Water is an important resource in the fashion industry. It is used in the dyeing and finishing of nearly all of our clothes. A single T-shirt consumes an incredible 2,700 liters of water. Cotton, in particular, is highly dependent on water, as it is typically grown in hot, dry areas where water is already scarce. Organic cotton, on the other hand, uses 91% less water than regular cotton.

Linen and hemp are two other sustainable fabrics that use little to no water during the manufacturing process.

4. SUSTAINABLE FASHION SUPPORTS FAIRER & SAFER WORKING CONDITIONS

Believe it or not, modern-day slavery does exist. Minimum wages (if any), interminable working hours, deplorable health and safety conditions, and the prohibition of worker unions are the realities for most garment workers in the fast fashion sector. Furthermore, verbal and physical abuse is still common in many areas of the industry.

Eco-ethical brands advocate for humane working conditions, health care, and fair wages for their employees, which are typically higher than the industry average. In general, they demonstrate a larger goal of creating economic opportunities for those in need in order to end poverty.

5. SUSTAINABLE FASHION IS HEALTHIER FOR PEOPLE & THE PLANET

Before they end up on our hangers, fast fashion items frequently go through a lengthy and intense chemical process. To dye, bleach, and wet process garments, approximately 8,000 different synthetic chemicals are used. These chemicals frequently cause diseases or even deaths among farmers, as well as serious birth defects in their offspring. On the other hand, sustainable fashion brands use eco-friendly dyes that are safe both for human beings, animals, and the environment. 

Read more about Slow Fashion: The Sustainable Choice