Fashion is the second-largest polluting industry in the world, behind only fossil fuel energy production. The Pulse report forecast fashion emissions to grow 63% by 2030.
At the moment (2020) it takes on average 10,000-20,000 litres of water to produce a kilo of cotton (A pair of jeans). This is why we need to start supporting brands that source cotton using ecological agronomic practices. Water is not a finite resource.
Pesticides are also commonly used to facilitate cotton growth, which flood crop fields contaminating nearby rivers and streams- placing neighboring communities in states of water scarcity.
An example of this is the Aral Sea, Kazakhstan -which has been shrinking since the 1960's as a result of cotton production. Covering 68, 00sq km, it's one of the biggest inland seas in the world.
Once thriving with fish, wildlife, and a sure-fire hotspot for tourists, this picture exemplifies how damaging cotton production can be.
Microfibres from synthetic fabrics also infiltrate oceans, with up to a million tonnes ending up in the sea each year.
Sea organisms like Plankton mistake tiny plastics for food, in turn, many smaller animals and fish depend on plankton as their main food source – synthetic fabrics toxify our oceans.
Its time we start acting to reduce the industry's negative impact on the environment whilst it's still reversible.
To help achieve this it's important consumers understand how impactful their purchases can be when aiming to conserve our planet.
Eco-Star Ratings and Delivery Mileage Calculators on e-commerce checkouts would inform buyers on brands environmental friendliness. Whilst Government certification would authenticate its legitimacy.
The assessment would calculate numerous factors to help steer buyers away from unecological purchases. Such as the number of organically manufactured products, water, waste & carbon dioxide savings.
We think it should be mandatory for brands to disclose such information. If you feel the same way drop [email protected] (Environmental Audit Committee UKGOV) an email to raise this issue or any other concerns you have regarding sustainability. Action leads to change.
To further fight for this cause we believe consumers (you) should be way more inquisitive when shopping online.
Most Brands have chat features on their webpage, why not use these to delve into brand sustainability.
Check garment fabric compositions (If not stated) before purchasing. Ask how far is the delivery warehouse is to your house.
Maybe even quiz retailers on ideas for reusing particular garments. Get creative. And always remember to be mindful when shopping for clothes.