Is the Fashion Industry Going Greener?

The fashion industry is facing an increasingly pressing issue: environmental sustainability. 

The alarming truth is that this industry, often associated with luxury and creativity, has created a significant impact on the environment. Statistics reveal that the fashion industry is responsible for a whopping 10% of global carbon emissions. That’s more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined!

And it doesn’t stop there. The industry is also a major contributor to water pollution, consumes vast amounts of water estimated at around 79 billion cubic meters annually, and generates an astonishing amount of waste with one garbage truck of textiles either burned or dumped in landfills every second.

And let’s not forget the human toll—garment workers often face low wages, hazardous working conditions, and limited rights in many parts of the world.

So we ask: Can the fashion industry transition from being a major polluter to a force for positive change? Can it truly become environmentally sustainable? In this article, we delve into the challenges, progress, and potential solutions that are shaping the industry’s consciousness of going greener.

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Why Is the Fashion Industry So Polluting?

What exactly makes this industry so polluting? One major culprit is the life cycle of clothing itself. From the moment a garment is conceived to its ultimate fate, each step along the way takes a toll on the planet—from the production of raw materials, the manufacturing processes, transportation, retail operations, and even the eventual disposal or recycling of clothing. It’s a complex journey with numerous opportunities for environmental harm.

Starting with water pollution. The fashion industry is notorious for its immense water consumption. Growing cotton alone requires massive amounts of water, and chemical-intensive dyeing and finishing processes further contribute to water contamination. Our rivers and oceans pay the price as harmful chemicals find their way into aquatic ecosystems.

It is also a heavyweight in carbon emissions. The energy-intensive manufacturing processes, long-distance shipping, and the carbon footprint of textile production all contribute to its environmental impact. And let’s not forget the carbon emissions resulting from garment care, with washing and drying consuming substantial energy resources.

Then there’s the issue of waste generation. Fast fashion’s rapid production and consumption cycle leads to an alarming amount of clothing waste. We’ve become a throwaway society, discarding garments faster than ever before. Sadly, many of these clothes end up in landfills, where they contribute to the release of greenhouse gases as they decompose.

It’s evident that the fashion industry’s unsustainability is multifaceted, involving water pollution, waste generation, and carbon emissions. These issues are deeply ingrained in the industry’s current practices, but the good news is that solutions and alternatives are emerging.

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What Does Green Mean in Fashion?

When we talk about “green” in the context of fashion, we’re referring to sustainability—a holistic approach that considers the environmental, social, and ethical aspects of clothing production and consumption. It’s about creating a positive impact on the planet and people throughout the fashion supply chain.

In this pursuit of sustainability, environmental factors take centre stage. It means minimizing the use of non-renewable resources, reducing carbon emissions, and preserving natural ecosystems. Ethical practices involve ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for human rights.

By embracing the green movement, the fashion industry aims to address the ecological and ethical challenges it faces while redefining its purpose beyond aesthetics. It’s about reimagining fashion as a force for positive change.

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Is the Fashion Industry Environmentally Friendly?

When it comes to being environmentally friendly, is the fashion industry making the grade? Well, the answer is a bit more nuanced than a simple yes or no. Let’s take a closer look at the industry’s progress in adopting sustainable practices and what it means for our planet.

The Growing Wave of Eco-conscious Brands

We can’t ignore the growing number of eco-conscious brands that are making waves in the fashion world with their commitment to sustainability. Let’s take a closer look at some examples of these inspiring brands and the ways in which they are leading the charge toward a greener future.

Patagonia

Patagonia has long been recognized as a pioneer in sustainable fashion. They are known for their use of recycled materials, such as polyester made from plastic bottles, and their dedication to fair trade practices. Patagonia actively encourages customers to repair and reuse their garments, promoting a culture of longevity and reducing the need for new purchases.

Stella McCartney

Stella McCartney has become synonymous with ethical and sustainable fashion. The brand places a strong emphasis on animal welfare and does not use any fur or leather in its collections. Stella McCartney champions innovative materials like vegan leather and works to minimize its carbon footprint through responsible sourcing and manufacturing practices.

Reformation

Reformation is a brand that seamlessly combines style with sustainability. They prioritize eco-friendly fabrics, utilize efficient manufacturing processes, and implement water-saving techniques. Reformation also provides transparent information about the environmental impact of each garment, empowering consumers to make informed choices.

Levi’s

Levi’s, a renowned denim brand, has been making strides in sustainability. They have introduced Water<Less® techniques, which significantly reduce water usage in their manufacturing processes. Levi’s also offers a “Wellthread” collection made from organic cotton and recycled materials, demonstrating their commitment to more sustainable fashion.

Mud Jeans

Mud Jeans‘ ground-breaking use of circular fashion is transforming the denim industry. Customers can rent their jeans from them rather than purchasing them entirely thanks to their company’s innovative lease scheme. The jeans may be recycled after usage, cutting down on textile waste and fostering a circular economy.

Sustainable Initiatives and Collaborations

It’s not just a few individual brands making an impact; there is a broader movement within the industry to address sustainability. Let’s take a closer look at some notable campaigns and collaborations that demonstrate this industry-wide shift towards a greener future.

Fashion Pact

In 2019, the Fashion Pact was launched, bringing together more than 60 major fashion companies from around the world. This initiative aims to collectively address environmental challenges, focusing on areas such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, protecting biodiversity, and transitioning to a circular fashion economy. Signatories to the pact include industry giants like Adidas, H&M, and Kering, showing a united commitment to sustainability.

Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC)

The SAC is an industry-wide collaboration that brings together brands, retailers, manufacturers, and NGOs to drive sustainability in the fashion industry. They have developed the Higg Index, a set of tools and standards that measure the environmental and social impact of apparel and footwear production. Through this collaborative effort, brands can assess and improve their sustainability performance.

Better Cotton Initiative (BCI)

The Better Cotton Initiative is a global program that promotes more sustainable cotton production. BCI works with cotton farmers to train them in sustainable farming practices, reducing the use of harmful chemicals, and promoting water efficiency. Partner brands, including Adidas, Levi’s, and IKEA, commit to sourcing a percentage of their cotton as “Better Cotton.”

Textile Exchange

Textile Exchange is a global nonprofit organization that works with stakeholders throughout the textile industry to promote sustainable practices. They provide standards and certifications, conduct research, and offer resources to help companies reduce their environmental impact. Their Responsible Wool Standard, Organic Content Standard, and Recycled Claim Standard are some of the initiatives making a difference.

Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action

The Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action is an initiative led by the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC). It brings together brands, suppliers, and organizations committed to taking action on climate change. Signatories to the charter, such as Nike, Gap Inc., and PVH Corp., commit to reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to a low-carbon economy.

Certifications and Standards to Follow

To help navigate the complex landscape of sustainable fashion, certifications and standards have emerged. These frameworks provide guidelines and criteria for brands to follow, ensuring they meet specific environmental and social benchmarks. Here are a few of them:

Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS)

If you’ve delved into the world of sustainable fashion, chances are you’ve come across the GOTS certification. GOTS ensures that textiles, from harvesting raw materials to manufacturing and labelling, meet strict organic standards. This certification guarantees that the fibres used in the clothing are organic, limiting the use of harmful chemicals and promoting biodiversity.

Fair Trade Certified

Fair Trade certification goes beyond environmental sustainability to prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and community empowerment. When you see the Fair Trade label, it means that the brand has met stringent social and environmental criteria. Workers involved in the production of these garments receive fair compensation and operate in safe environments.

Bluesign

The Bluesign certification focuses on the environmental impact of the entire textile supply chain. It ensures that chemicals, materials, and processes used in textile production meet high sustainability standards. Brands with the Bluesign certification have demonstrated their commitment to reducing their ecological footprint and promoting the responsible use of resources.

OEKO-TEX Standard 100

The OEKO-TEX Standard 100 is a globally recognized certification that ensures textiles are free from harmful substances. It tests for a wide range of chemicals, including pesticides, heavy metals, and allergenic dyes. When you see the OEKO-TEX label on a garment, it means that it has been tested and certified to be free from harmful substances.

Forest Stewardship Council (FSC)

The FSC certification ensures that wood and paper products, including packaging and hang tags, come from responsibly managed forests. It guarantees that forests are being protected, communities are respected, and wildlife habitats are preserved. Brands using FSC-certified packaging contribute to the conservation of forests and support sustainable forestry practices.

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Are There Challenges to Fashion’s Going Green?

While progress has been made in the industry, there are several challenges that need to be addressed to truly go green. Let’s dive in and explore some of these obstacles:

Fast Fashion Culture

The fast fashion culture, characterized by rapid production and consumption, poses a significant challenge to sustainability. The demand for cheap, trendy clothing leads to overproduction, excessive waste, and unethical labour practices. Shifting this culture towards more mindful and conscious consumption is essential for the industry to become greener.

Complex Supply Chain

The fashion supply chain is intricate, involving multiple stages from sourcing raw materials to manufacturing, distribution, and retail. Managing and monitoring sustainability across this complex network can be a daunting task. Brands must ensure transparency and accountability throughout the supply chain, collaborating with suppliers and manufacturers to implement sustainable practices.

Access to Sustainable Materials

While the availability of sustainable materials is increasing, there is still a need for more accessible and cost-effective options. Scaling up the production of eco-friendly fabrics, such as organic cotton, hemp, and recycled fibres, can help reduce the industry’s reliance on conventional materials that have a significant environmental impact.

Consumer Awareness and Behaviour

Shifting consumer behaviour towards sustainable choices remains a challenge. Many consumers are still unaware of the environmental and social impact of their fashion choices. Educating consumers about the benefits of sustainable fashion, promoting transparency, and offering attractive alternatives are crucial for driving demand for greener products.

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Final Note

So, is the fashion industry environmentally friendly? Well, it’s certainly moving in the right direction. The rise of eco-conscious brands, the adoption of sustainable practices, and the presence of certifications are all promising signs. 

While progress is undeniably being made, we can’t overlook the challenges that remain. The fashion industry is vast and complex and achieving widespread sustainability requires a collective effort and a shift in consumer mindset.

There’s still work to be done, and the industry must continue to push boundaries, innovate, and embrace sustainability as a core value. We, as consumers, also play a crucial role in driving the demand for sustainable fashion and holding brands accountable for their actions.