Sustainability and environmental protection are two terms you might have been hearing a bit too often these days. But I’m sure the title of this article may have made many of our readers scrunch up their noses and raise their brows in confusion. As absurd as it might sound, our fashion trends and clothing does have a huge impact on our already vulnerable environment. Sustainable or green fashion is part of the solution we all crave for.
How is Fashion Harming our Environment?
An increase in demand for fashionable clothing over the years has led to huge increments in the amount of pollution. According to statistics, about 10% of humanity’s carbon emissions come from fashion production. It dries up water resources and pollutes rivers and streams when industrial waste is dumped into them. Another survey revealed that there was a 60% increase in the demand for trendy clothes during 2014 as compared to 2000.
Most of the clothes contain at least 3% polyester, a material which has increased carbon production upon burning and does not biodegrade when thrown into the oceans. Moreover, increased production and utilization of fashion items mean more washing. Most washing powders and detergents also contain massive amounts of microplastics, and plastics being eternal does not degrade either and contribute massively to polluting our water bodies and land.
What Choices Do We Have?
Green Fashion is a term used to describe clothes made out of organic and environmentally friendly fibres. Even though the production of such items may be expensive initially but it sure is a sustainable option.
Some of the organic fibers being used in the textile industry are:
Organic Cotton and Soy Silk fibers:
Cotton comes from the cotton plants that are grown in subtropical regions like India, Pakistan and America. The organic cotton is the plant which is grown without the use of any synthetic techniques like genetic modifications or even fertilizers. A wide variety of items can be made of it, ranging from underwear to pants and even infant wears.
Soy is not just a bean that tastes well and is nutritious but it also looks good on your body. It comes from the hulls of soybeans. It is sustainable, organically grown and completely biodegradable.
Nettle and Hemp:
Hemp is originated from the cannabis genus of plants and appears as a soft, durable material. Hemp is known for its warmth and softness. It is a versatile fabric which may be used to produce a number of clothing items.
Nettle can not just be used a fabric but the extracts from its stem, roots and leaves can also be used as organic dyes of varying colors like green and yellow.
Leading Designers who Endorse Eco Fabrics and Fashion.
A number of leading designers in the modern era are supporting eco-friendly fabrics and sustainable ways of its production.
Triarchy Atelier Denim
For all those denim lovers out there. Triarchy Ateliers is providing sustainable denim pants and clothing. It’s time we switch to these and be a part of the revolution.
Noémiah
The Canadian designer offers feminine clothing made of entirely eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, linen, wool, silk and bamboo.
Conclusion
You don’t have to be a follower and adhere to environment friendly fashion choices. But keep in mind that fashion does and is having a negative impact on the environment. However, there is a significant impact that individual choices make on the overall outlook in the world.
Also Read: Dress to Impress: Why it’s More Than Just a Statement?
