The fashion industry has a long history of designing and producing quick-to-market pieces that come at the expense of the environment. But, there are ways it could still be more sustainable. One option is to apply sustainable materials like cotton made from recycled plastic and hemp instead of synthetics like polyester and viscose. Another is to move away from inorganic fluorescent dyes, which contain harmful chemicals that are absorbed into fabrics during production. There are also opportunities to use organic and renewable fibers, reduce the use of harmful chemicals in manufacturing processes and create products from organic waste or from organic materials. Reducing unnecessary packaging can also help reduce the amount of waste.
Another option is to move away from inorganic fluorescent dyes, which contain harmful chemicals that are absorbed into fabrics during production. There are also opportunities to use organic Northwestern clothing and renewable fibers, reduce the use of harmful chemicals in manufacturing processes and create products from organic waste or from organic materials. Reducing unnecessary packaging can also help reduce the amount of waste.
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Invest in garments and clothing that will last:
This means investing in quality materials that will keep your clothing in tip-top shape. By choosing well-made materials, you will be adding less to the world’s waste problem. It takes a long time for some clothing materials to decompose, so now is the time to make an effort to buy items that last and will endure the harsh conditions of today’s washing machines. Invest in high-quality products that you can pass on to your kids. Apparel made from organic cotton is among the best materials for long-lasting clothing.
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Produce less:
There are several ways to produce less without compromising on quality. One way is to use more recycled material and natural fibers in your production processes, including cotton made from recycled plastic and hemp instead of synthetics like polyester and viscose. Another is to move away from inorganic fluorescent dyes, which contain harmful chemicals that are absorbed into fabrics during production. There are also opportunities to use organic and renewable fibers, reduce the use of harmful chemicals in manufacturing processes and create products from organic waste or from organic materials.
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Re-use materials, off-cuts, and fabrics:
Re-used fabric can be used to make new clothing, rugs, and even accessories like bags. By re-using materials you will be saving water, detergent, and energy that’s needed to clean and process. You’ll also be avoiding using unnecessary packaging or transportation. And if you’re not quite sure what to do with your old clothes, you can always donate them instead of throwing them away.
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Go vintage:
Seeking out second-hand clothing is not only fun but will also help you do your part to reduce the fashion industry’s carbon footprint. With vintage items, you can find high-quality clothing at a much cheaper price. If second-hand isn’t your thing, you can also opt for vintage-inspired apparel and accessories or even make your own.
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Know your facts:
There are many misconceptions about the fashion industry that can be combated by spreading awareness. For instance, some people believe all apparel is produced using toxic chemicals. However, synthetics are the most commonly used materials in apparel and account for only about 1% of all fabrics used worldwide. There are also misconceptions about waste disposal and incineration. People believe that 70% of all textiles in the US end up in landfills, as opposed to being reused or recycled. However, only about five percent of textiles land in a landfill.
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Buy only what you need:
Buying less clothing makes more sense than buying more. Trying to consume as much as you can is one way to contribute to the fashion industry’s waste problem. It takes a long time for some clothing materials to decompose, so now is the time to make an effort to buy items that last and will endure the harsh conditions of today’s washing machines.
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Buy less, but buy better:
Buy from tailors and seamstresses so you can get clothing that is exactly how you want it. Instead of buying a new outfit every time you go shopping, try to find the best-made piece in your closet. If you do decide to buy something new, opt for high-quality garments that will last through many winters, springs, and falls.
Final Thoughts:
The fashion industry has a long history of designing and producing quick-to-market pieces that come at the expense of the environment. But, there are ways it could still be more sustainable. One option is to apply sustainable materials like cotton made from recycled plastic and hemp instead of synthetics like polyester and viscose. Another is to move away from inorganic fluorescent dyes, which contain harmful chemicals that are absorbed into fabrics during production. There are also opportunities to use organic and renewable fibers, reduce the use of harmful chemicals in manufacturing processes and create products from organic waste or from organic materials.
