Sustainable Fashion and Clothing

SECONDHAND/VINTAGE

The most sustainable garment is the one that is never made. Second hand clothing is an excellent way to support second life for garments and also offers a budget-friendly way to make sustainable fashion choices. Since many consignment, vintage and thrift shops are affiliated with charities, buying second-hand can benefit the charity as well as the environment.

SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS

 Up to 500,000 tons of micro-plastics from textiles enter the global marine environment, according to the European Environment Agency. That is the equivalent of 50 billion plastic bottles. Sustainably sourced natural fiber textiles make for the best option when it comes to fabric choices. Sustainably sourced hemp, cotton, ethically sourced wool and linen are all good options. 

 Another sustainable material is recycled synthetic fabric. Garments made from recycled polymers such as polyester, nylon and spandex are just as durable as their “virgin” counterparts. Beware of “bamboo” fabric. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), most if not all, “bamboo” textile products are actually rayon, the production of which utilizes hazardous chemicals and releases toxic pollutants into the environment.

 Textile dyes are another source of negative environmental impacts. While admittedly rather difficult to do, opting for naturally dyed apparel is a sustainable choice.

 For more information check out the guide to the 10 most sustainable fabrics.

SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION

 An estimated 10% of global carbon emissions stems from the fashion industry. There are an increasing number of apparel companies which are adopting sustainable manufacturing practices, measures to offset their carbon footprint, processes to reduce water consumption and to curb pollution.

 Unfortunately, greenwashing in the fashion industry is also prevalent. It is beneficial to do a little research about the company before accepting any “eco” claims at face value. Here is a list of sustainable certifications.

BUYING LOCAL

In addition to energy consumption and carbon emissions resulting from the production of garments, there are additional negative environmental impacts in the transportation of the apparel, usually from overseas.

Opting for pieces manufactured in the region helps reduce environmental impacts of transportation. Further, clothes made in the USA are usually manufactured under more stringent regulations, both environmentally and ethically. 

UPCYCLING/REPURPOSING

Up-cycling is trendy and very sustainable. Apparel and home decor made from repurposed textiles can range from the “earthy” look to high-end fashion. There are many DIY patterns and ideas online for crafty people as well as an increasing number of fashion designers and manufacturers that have adopted the ethos. 

AVOIDING FAST FASHION

About 82 pounds of textile waste is produced by the average American each year, according to the documentary The True Cost. The manufacturing of fast fashion (apparel produced quickly and cheaply to keep up with ever changing trends) is a significant contributor to global carbon emissions as well as air, water and soil pollution. Fast fashion is also a significant contributor to landfill waste and incineration. A more sustainable choice is to invest in well-made, long-lasting garments. 

 Here is more information on the negative impacts of fast fashion.

AFTERLIFE

According to the Copenhagen Fashion Summit, 92 million tons out of the 100 billion garments produced annually are discarded in landfills.

 In Carlisle, there is no reason any textile should go into the trash dumpster. If the item is in usable condition, it can be donated to any of the large number of charity thrift organizations in the area so the piece can have a second life in someone else’s wardrobe or home. The garment can also be placed in the textile bin at the transfer station. If the garment is not in good enough shape to be reused, it, too should be placed in the textile bin at the transfer station where the fibers can be recycled.