Sep 4, 2024
By: Prerna Tyagi
Credit: unsplash
According to a research conducted by McKinsey, the fashion industry emits about the same quantity of greenhouse gases per year as the entire economies of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom combined.
Credit: unsplash
Over the past decade, the fashion industry has seen a huge influx of brands marketing and positioning themselves as sustainable. From organic fabrics to ethical labour practices, the term "sustainable fashion" has become a buzzword.
Credit: unsplash
Sustainable fashion often focuses on using organic or recycled materials. However, even these fabrics have environmental costs. For instance, organic cotton requires vast amounts of water, while recycled polyester still sheds microplastics.
Credit: unsplash
Many brands claim to be sustainable, but some are accused of "greenwashing"—marketing themselves as environmentally friendly without making significant changes. The absence of fair labour practices further raises doubts about the authenticity of such claims.
Credit: unsplash
Higher-quality, durable clothing reduces the need for frequent replacements, but—are people really buying less, or just paying more for the same consumption patterns? If so, then can fashion truly be sustainable?
Credit: unsplash
The sustainability of fashion being a myth can be debated, but a McKinsey study has highlighted how producers can work towards reducing their Co2 emissions.
Credit: unsplash
The report states that brands can reduce their carbon emissions by improving their material mix and using a greater deal of recycled fibre. Moreover, they could increase the use of sustainable transport, minimise returns and reduce overproduction.
Credit: unsplash
The Washington Post reports that biodegradable fabrics would also be a promising solution for the same. For example, TômTex, a US-based company has created a kind of “leather” that is made of waste seafood shells, and another variant with mushrooms.
Credit: unsplash