What is sustainable fashion and why is it important?
Sustainable fashion and changing what we wear.
The fashion industry has long been a symbol of creativity, self-expression, and innovation but it also comes with a heavy environmental and social cost.
As consumer awareness grows, the need for sustainable fashion has become more important than ever. But what exactly is sustainable fashion, and why does it matter?
What is sustainable fashion?
Sustainable fashion encompasses practices that reduce the environmental impact and improve the social responsibility of clothing production. This includes using eco-friendly materials, ethical labour practices, reducing waste, and encouraging consumers to adopt more mindful shopping habits.
From organic cotton and recycled fabrics to upcycling old garments, sustainable fashion offers a holistic approach to creating and consuming clothing that prioritises the planet and its people.
The environmental impact of fast fashion.
Fast fashion, characterised by cheap and trendy clothing that is designed for short-term use, has taken a devastating toll on the environment.
- The fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions, more than international flights and maritime shipping combined.
- It takes about 2,700 litres of water to produce a single cotton T-shirt – that’s enough water for one person to drink for over two years.
- Every year, millions of tonnes of clothing end up in landfills, contributing to pollution and the release of harmful greenhouse gases.
- Fast fashion encourages a culture of overconsumption, with items often discarded after only a few wears. The result is a cycle of waste and environmental degradation that is not sustainable (or necessary).
The facts about clothing waste in Australia.
Australia faces significant challenges with clothing waste, reflecting a global trend of overconsumption and environmental impact. The statistics below underscore the pressing need for sustainable fashion practices, increased consumer awareness, and improved recycling infrastructure to address the growing problem of clothing waste in Australia. Here are some alarming facts…
High consumption.
Australians are among the world’s largest consumers of textiles, purchasing an average of 56 new clothing items per person each year, surpassing countries like the United States and the United Kingdom.
Source: Australia Institute.
Landfill contribution.
Over 200,000 tonnes of clothing end up in Australian landfills annually, equating to nearly four times the weight of the Sydney Harbour Bridge.
Source: Australia Institute.
Textile waste
In the 2018-2019 period, more than 800,000 tonnes of leather, rubber, and textiles were discarded in Australia, with a recycling rate of just 7%.
Source: Planet Ark
Exported textile waste.
Approximately 105,000 tonnes of used textiles are exported from Australia each year, often to developing nations, contributing to global waste challenges.
Source: Australia Institute.
Synthetic fibre prevalence.
Over half (52%) of clothing sold in Australia is made from polyester, a petroleum-based synthetic fibre. This raises alarming concerns about microplastic pollution and sustainability.
Source: Australia Institute.
Low recycling rates.
Despite our high consumption, Australia’s textile recycling efforts are minimal, with only a small fraction of discarded textiles being recycled or repurposed.
Source: Planet Ark
Why sustainable fashion matters.
Reducing environmental harm.
Sustainable fashion uses materials and processes that significantly reduce water usage, carbon emissions, and waste.
By supporting brands that prioritise sustainability, consumers can contribute to lowering the industry’s environmental footprint.
Promoting ethical work practices.
Many fast fashion brands rely on exploitative labour practices, including low wages, unsafe working conditions, and even child labour.
Sustainable fashion supports fair wages, safe workplaces, and ethical treatment of workers, ensuring that the people behind our clothes are treated with dignity and respect.
Encouraging mindful clothing consumption.
Sustainable fashion encourages consumers to buy less but choose better.
Investing in high-quality, timeless pieces not only reduces waste but also fosters a deeper appreciation for the clothing we own.
Driving innovation.
The shift toward sustainability has sparked incredible innovation in the fashion industry.
From biodegradable fabrics to closed-loop recycling systems, sustainable practices are paving the way for a more environmentally friendly future.
How we can start to embrace sustainable fashion.
Here are some simple ways to get started on embracing sustainable fashion…
Choose quality over quantity.
Invest in durable, well-made pieces that will last for years.
Upcycle, mend and repair.
Extend the life of your clothes by repairing them or transforming them into something new.
Shop second hand.
Charity shops, thrift stores, markets and online resale platforms offer great alternatives to buying new.
Keeping clothes in a circular economy.
Clothes swapping with friends and colleagues is an excellent way to keep garments in use and out of landfill.
By exchanging clothes, you not only refresh your wardrobe without spending money but also contribute to a circular economy where clothing is reused and repurposed, reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
Support sustainable brands.
Seek out companies and designers that are transparent about their sustainability efforts.
Wash your clothes smartly.
Reduce the environmental impact of your clothes by washing them less frequently and at lower temperatures.
Getting educated.
Understanding how clothes are made and what happens to them at the end of their life is crucial.
Many people don’t realise the environmental cost of synthetic materials or the labour practices involved in fast fashion.
Importantly, donating clothes doesn’t always mean they’ll be reused – a significant portion ends up in landfills or exported to countries ill-equipped to handle the waste.
By educating ourselves about the lifecycle of our clothing, we can make more informed decisions and reduce our impact.
Sustainable fashion is about the bigger picture.
The importance of sustainable fashion cannot be overstated. Every purchase (or non-purchase) is a vote for the kind of world we want to live in.
By choosing sustainable fashion and taking care of the clothes you already own, we are choosing a future where style and sustainability go hand in hand.
Sustainable fashion is about more than just the clothes we wear. It’s about creating a cultural shift toward valuing quality, fairness, and your personal responsibility.
We should all be making conscious choices that pave the way for a better, more sustainable world. By embracing sustainability, we can collectively reduce waste, conserve resources, and ensure a healthier planet for future generations.