Claire Maybin
Fast fashion is inexpensive, constantly changing, mass produced clothing (Bick et al.).
Increased consumption encourages the production of cheap clothing. The United States consumes more clothing that any other nation in the world. A large hinderance from sustainability is this consumption culture that we live in today.
Model for sustainability
The model widely used for sustainability is Raworth’s donut model. To summarize this model without going into too much depth; it illustrates how in order to achieve true sustainability we must not destroy the earths life sustaining services through over use and abuse– exceed the planetary boundaries but we must also not neglect human rights and human needs—pass the social foundation. There is a delicate balance between the two that we must strive to stay between. (Raworth)
Unsustainable fashion
Fast fashion is extremely unsustainable from the very beginning of the supply chain.
Textile dyeing results in additional hazards as untreated wastewater from dyes are often discharged into local water systems, releasing heavy metals and other toxicants that can adversely impact the health of animals in addition to nearby residents (Bick et al.). Beyond the enormous amount of waste that is produced by “fast fashion”, it also encourages the need for cheap efficient labor, which usually comes with the cost of human rights. Textile mills are associated with many occupational hazards and low wages (Harris et al). The true price of clothing is not paid by the consumer. Additionally, items that are considered fast fashion, are not intended to be worn for years so they tatter and fray quickly. This means that their short lifespan lands them in the landfill after only a few years of wear. At every point in the garments lifespan there are improvements that can be made to make it more sustainable.
Solutions!
Buy ethically made clothing! Consumers can have a considerable impact in improving clothing sustainability. Look for items that are made with organic cotton or are certified fair trade! When you buy organic and fair trade you are not only encouraging environmentally friendly companies you are also being a supporter of humane working conditions. One drawback is that shopping ethically and sustainably can be very expensive many people lack the knowledge about the companies they are buying goods from. However, shopping at thrift stores and other secondhand shops can be a great way to find a fresh look without fueling consumerism and unethical business practices. Another solution can be as simple as shopping less and cutting back on consumption in general. There is disillusionment when seeking happiness through consumption, so why not buy ethically and find fulfilment in voting with your dollar for a better world!
Bick, R., Halsey, E., & Ekenga, C. C. (2018). The global environmental injustice of fast fashion. Environmental Health, 17(1). doi: 10.1186/s12940-018-0433-7
Harris, F., Roby, H., & Dibb, S. (2016). Sustainable clothing: challenges, barriers and interventions for encouraging more sustainable consumer behaviour. International Journal of Consumer Studies, 40. doi: 10.1111/ijcs.12257
Raworth, K. (2013). Defining a Safe and Just Space for Humanity. State of the World 2013, 28–38. doi: 10.5822/978-1-61091-458-1_3