The Fashion Industry and Our Planet
The Planet
The planet and its condition are some of the leading factors of discussion in today’s fashion industry. Globally recognised as a key focus where change is imperative, actions to positively contribute to the longevity of the planets health and restoration are now crucial considerations amongst those in the industry. According to the UN, the fashion industry is responsible for approx. 10% of global emissions, with the textiles industry alone having one of the most polluting ecological footprints in the world. These dire statistics demonstrate how vital it is for the fashion world to implement conversations, education, and constructive steps to sustaining our planet before the damage is irreversible.
Circular Economy
One of the leading changes considered across the industry is a circular economy, which aims to act as an environmentally conscious, regenerative production cycle that minimises waste through the restoration of components such as discarded material or leftover product. Gradually, many brands are putting this structure into effect and evaluating its benefits. Regardless of potential drawbacks, it has become notably popular amongst infant brands, where producing with secondary materials is standing as a worthy, cheaper alternative than buying new. ‘Sourcing deadstock materials means designers need to be open to being inspired by what is available, rather than seeking the perfect fabric match for their ideas.’ (Drapers, 2022).
Sustainability
Regarding fashion, sustainability entails essential elements relative to the well-being of our planet, including conscious choices to sustain environmental health- i.e., responsible sourcing and production, and ensuring our creative processes of any/all natures follow progressive ethics that minimise damage to the world around us. Every aspect of a garment’s lifespan must be considered when aiming to maximise sustainability, from factory to wardrobe- extending to wherever it ends up afterward. Some steps towards sustainability are more attainable than others, yet all count in contributing against the issue. ‘We are not saying that a brand needs to use materials that are different to current materials. An example of this would be cotton. The Better Cotton Initiative aims to provide a better standard of cotton that would destroy harmful pesticides.’ (Turner, H. 2022).
Sustainable Development Goals
The UN Department of Economic and Social Affairs has outlined 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDG’s) which need to be carefully considered by all industries looking to improve their global impact- which ‘provides a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity for people and the planet.’ (UNDESA, 2015). 1 SDG with an undeniable relation to the fashion industry is Responsible Consumption and Production. Whilst arguably being applicable to a variety of industries, these factors are prevalent topics being adapted throughout the fashion world when taking steps towards sustainability. Prominent brand PANGAIA is highly praised for its sustainable ethic, due to their use of eco-friendly materials- (such as organic cotton), recycled offcuts, natural dyes, compostable packaging and efforts to limit wastewater during production. (Good On You, 2022). This is an exemplary brand making efforts to be part of the revolutionary cause to heal our planet, which all sectors of the fashion world should aspire to contribute to.
Bibliography
Moran, Graeme – Drapers: Collaborating for Change – Sustainability report 2022
drapersonline.com/insight/drapers-bespoke/collaborating-for-change-sustainability-report-2022 (Accessed: 7/10/2023)
Turner, Harry – The Benefits of Sustainable Fashion: Ethics and Environment – July 21, 2022.
unsustainablemagazine.com/benefits-of-sustainable-fashion/ (Accessed: 7/10/2023)
United Nations Department of Economic and Social Affairs: THE 17 GOALS –
https://sdgs.un.org/goals (Accessed: 7/10/2023)
‘Good on you’ Journal – (Last updated November 2022)
https://directory.goodonyou.eco/brand/pangaia (Accessed: 7/10/2023)