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HOW TO PRACTICE SUSTAINABLE FASHION AS A CONSUMER.
The practice of sustainability in fashion is a growing trend that aims to reduce the negative impact of the fashion industry on the environment. This negative impact is the release of air and water pollutants like nitrogen oxides, sulfur dioxides, etc.
Practicing sustainability in fashion can seem to be a difficult task as some fashion consumers if not most are ignorant of what this practice actually entails. The article talks about the different ways to practice sustainable fashion and what to look for when choosing sustainable clothing brands.
WHAT IS SUSTAINABLE FASHION
Sustainable fashion also known as ethical fashion is the practice of collecting raw materials, manufacturing fabric, designing, producing, and distributing clothing and accessories in ways that are ethical and do not harm the environment. This environmentally friendly practice goes both ways, the manufacturer, and the consumer both have roles to play.
Sustainable fashion and slow fashion are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are two different practices that both aim to achieve a healthier environment through fashion. Sustainable fashion involves a broader set of practices that aim to reduce the fashion industry’s impact on the environment and society. This includes everything from reducing water usage and using renewable energy in the production stage to upcycling and recycling in the disposal stage.
Slow fashion on the other hand covers just a few aspects of sustainable fashion practices and the term was founded to go against fast fashion which involves mass production of cheap and trendy clothing and accessories designed to be worn for a short period and disposed of.
HOW TO PRACTICE SUSTAINABLE FASHION AS A CONSUMER
Practicing sustainable fashion does not only imply shopping from stores that are not Shein and the rest that fall in that category, it involves different practices including;
Choosing sustainable materials
Materials used in the making of clothes have a significant impact on the environment. For fashion consumers, it is important for the environment that natural fibers like cotton, linen, and wool are used more than synthetic materials like polyester and nylon. Always check the material composition before purchasing a clothing item. Sustainable materials like organic cotton, Tencel, and linen are also great options.
Buying high-quality clothing
It is better to buy a turtle-neck top that would last six winters or more than buy a new one every year. High-quality clothing usually involves more money but definitely worth it. Investing in high-quality, classic clothing that lasts longer is a major step in practicing sustainability in fashion. Since fast fashion brands often use low-quality materials that do not last long and are discarded quickly, they encourage constant consumption. Instead, choose fewer high-quality clothing items that will last for many years.
Buying second-hand or vintage
Buying second-hand or vintage clothing or popularly known as thrifting is a great way to reduce fashion’s impact on the environment. This practice extends the life of existing garments and reduces the amount of clothing that ends up in landfills. The fashion industry produces approximately 10% of global carbon emissions. Buying used clothing helps to reduce the demand for new clothing and reduce the native impacts on the environment.
Supporting sustainable brands
Several sustainable fashion brands try to reduce their social and environmental impact. Invest in brands whose supply chain is sustainable, their production is ethical, and their materials are sustainable. Supporting sustainable brands found locally contributes positively to a more sustainable fashion industry.
Caring for your clothes
Maintaining your clothes properly is an important aspect of sustainability in fashion. Reduce energy and water consumption by washing your clothes less often, using cold water, and line-drying. Repairing and mending your clothes extends the life span rather than discarding them.
Donating or recycling old clothing
You should donate old clothing to a charity when you are ready to dispose of it. You can also recycle it rather than add it to the trash in the bin. Many recycling programs convert old clothes into new materials which reduces waste and saves resources.
In summary, practicing sustainability in fashion requires a conscious effort to reduce our impact on the environment and society. In order to create a more sustainable fashion industry, we can choose sustainable materials, invest in high-quality clothing, buy second-hand or vintage pieces, support sustainable brands, care for our clothes, and donate or recycle old clothing.
While consumers need to make sustainable choices, the fashion industry must also prioritize sustainability to reduce its impact on the environment.
