Make a sustainable fashion statement

Sustainable fashion

According to the UN, the clothing industry is responsible for around 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions and consumes more energy than aviation and shipping combined. We are living in an era where “fast fashion” is the norm and where being “on trend” is to the detriment of our environment.

Why our clothing habits matter

I am sure that some of us have been guilty of buying a new outfit for an occasion and worn it only once, for it then to sit in the wardrobe never to grace the light of day again, or simply thrown an item of clothing away when it could have been recycled or donated to charity to be enjoyed by someone else.

The fashion industry fuels a disposable culture where clothing is often cheaply made and lacks in quality. Many garments are designed to be replaced as trends change, rather than made to last. As consumers, we should all try to be mindful when making choices. We could look to choose items based on quality and durability that are made from natural fibres, as when washed synthetic clothing leaks microfibres (plastic) into our water sources.

Sustainable swaps for plastic-free fashion

Choose natural fibres

Choose natural over synthetic fibres, including:

• Organic Cotton
• Linen
• Silk
• Wool
• Cashmere
• Hemp
• Bamboo
• Leather

Natural fibre clothing is breathable and moisture wicking and is therefore more comfortable to wear than synthetic clothing. It can also be a great insulator. Wool, for example, has a natural fibre crimp, which traps pockets of air and keeps you much warmer than its synthetic counterpart. In addition, natural fibre is a renewable resource and it is biodegradable.

Give clothes a second life

Once you tire of a garment or it no longer fits, its life doesn’t have to end. As the adage goes, “One person’s trash is another person’s treasure”. Donating old clothing to a charity shop will give the items another lease of life and will simultaneously raise money for charity.

Clothes swaps are also becoming increasingly popular, whether via a local organised event or an informal meet up with friends. Clothes swapping gives everyone the chance to refresh their wardrobe without spending money or buying new items.

With over £140 million worth of clothing going to landfill each year, it is imperative that we invest in quality, long-lasting items and divert them from landfill at the end of their life. Only 13% of unwanted clothes were recycled last year and less than 1% were recycled back into clothing.

Do I really need it?

You could ask yourself:

• Is this an impulse buy?
• Can I wear something I already own?

If the answer is no, try to be mindful about your choices. If you do decide to buy new garments, remember that online deliveries often come in plastic packaging, some of which cannot be recycled.

Shopping in-store allows you to try before you buy, reducing the need for returns. It is estimated that £5 billion of waste is generated through returns each year, contributing 15 million metric tonnes of carbon dioxide.

You can also help by:

• Refusing plastic coat hangers and carrier bags
• Choosing stores that offer take-back or recycling schemes

Examples include Primark, Zara and H&M.

If natural fibres aren’t an option, consider clothing made from recycled materials rather than virgin plastics.

Rethink your wardrobe with the waste hierarchy

1. Resist the urge to frequently refresh your wardrobe and take care of clothes
2. Prepare for re-use – repair, donate, swap or sell
3. Re-purpose items into cleaning rags
4. Take items to clothing banks or textile recyclers
5. Send for recovery – such as energy from waste or insulation use
6. Disposal should always be the last resort

Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this blog are those of the author, and do not necessarily reflect the views of recycle-more, Valpak Limited, or any other organisation.