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May 23 2023
Why expansive growth in fashion production is worrying us
In a world driven by ever-changing trends, the fashion industry has experienced a rapid expansion like never before. Over the past 15 years, the number of produced fashion items has increased by 50%. However, beneath the glamour and allure lies a less appealing truth – an unhealthy development overall that demands our attention.
Firstly, let’s consider the environmental impact. Especially fast fashion, with its "take-make-dispose" model, places an enormous strain on our planet. The insatiable hunger for trendy clothing depletes precious natural resources, such as water, energy, and raw materials. The consequences are dire - increased pollution and carbon emissions, and resources used for clothing that is very often worn only a few times. Keeping this in mind, the conclusion is that fashion's rapid growth becomes synonymous with environmental devastation.
What is fueling the production surge? One main driver is the disposable culture: With each passing season, fashion's allure grows stronger, feeding into a culture of disposability. The fast fashion frenzy compels consumers to embrace a mindset that views clothing as disposable commodities. Low prices and constant trend turnover promote overconsumption, perpetuating a cycle of waste. The consequences are staggering - a mounting of textile waste in landfills, choking our environment and leaving a lasting scar on our planet
On top of this heavy burden to the planet, the huge amounts of clothing go hand-in-hand with inadmissible labor practices: Behind the scenes of our beloved fashion items, a darker reality unfolds. Although it’s widely known, a lot of consumers just do not care enough when purchasing clothing. The insatiable demand for cheap clothing leads especially fast fashion companies to outsource production to low-cost manufacturing countries with low labor protection standards. Textile workers endure long hours, meager wages, and unsafe working conditions. Exploitation becomes woven into the fabric of our fashion choices, as human rights violations persist, fueled by the industry's relentless expansion.
As we unravel the truth behind the alarming 50% surge in fashion production, it becomes clear that the industry's growth carries a heavy burden. The environmental toll, exploitative labor practices, and disposable culture are a wake-up call. It is time for change.
As consumers, we must rethink our choices, opting for sustainable and ethical alternatives. By embracing conscious consumption and supporting brands committed to fair practices, we can become agents of change. It’s not only policymakers to push for a change – consumers have all the power to demand so!
Together, we can weave a different narrative – one that cherishes our planet, values human rights, and embraces a fashion industry that respects both. Let us embark on this journey, rewriting the story of fashion's future, one thread at a time. Learn next time how APPOLINE contributes as part of a movement that could be summarized as “slow fashion”, where each piece is thought through, valued higher, and part of a more conscious decision making process of consumers.
