Rebecca Manzi Wearing a pair of fast-fashion jeans generates a carbon footprint as if we traveled 10 km in a petrol car.
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Researchers from the Guangdong University of Technology have unveiled a startling fact: wearing a pair of fast-fashion jeans just once can produce a carbon footprint equivalent to driving 10 km in a gasoline car.
This revelation highlights the significant environmental impact of the fast-fashion industry, characterized by rushed production, international distribution, and quick disposal of garments. The production and transportation of fast-fashion jeans have contributed to 91% of the carbon footprint of fast-fashion consumption, according to experts.
Driven by the increasing demand from consumers for the latest and most affordable looks, this hurried process releases frightful amounts of greenhouse gases into the atmosphere, contributing to global warming and climate change.
The urgent need for sustainable alternatives
However, there is hope for the planet. Analysts suggest that adopting product service systems could slow down the production and consumption cycles of fast fashion, shifting the industry toward a more circular model.
This could include recycling, second-hand, and rental services, thus reducing waste production and the overall environmental impact of the sector. They encourage individuals to consider more sustainable alternatives, such as buying or renting second-hand clothes and recycling their jeans instead of discarding them after a few uses.
These practices not only reduce the carbon footprint of individual items but also help promote a more sustainable and environmentally aware fashion ethic. Moving away from the rampant consumerism of fast fashion in favor of more conscious and eco-friendly purchases is a mindset shift that proves even small individual actions can make a difference in addressing the climate crisis and reducing the environmental impact of our society.
It is indeed urgent to take concrete steps to reduce the environmental impact of fast fashion and promote a more sustainable and ethical sector. Choosing second-hand clothing, practicing recycling, and supporting brands that focus on responsible production practices are crucial steps towards a greener and more sustainable future for our planet.
Source: National Library of Medicine
