Fast (cheap) fashion and its negative aspects

The problem with fast fashion is that it is based on an unsustainable business model that uses unethical and polluting solutions to cut costs. Examples of areas are:

• Environmental impact of fast fashion

The environmental impact is huge: chemical fibres such as polyester are often used in production. They are certainly harmful to the environment, as these fibres are made from petroleum, which emits a significant amount of CO2 during production. But it doesn’t stop there: chemicals also cause water pollution. When clothes are washed in the washing machine, these microfibers are released into the ocean in large quantities as microplastics.

• Ethical issues, violation of human rights

The industry is known for underpaying garment workers and even relying on child labour factories. Workers in garment factories face abuse, including earning unsustainable wages, harassment and poor working conditions. Some of these conditions have resulted in fatal fires and accidents.

• The problem with the fast fashion model

The real problem with fast fashion is its whole business model, because it encourages people to see their clothes as disposable[1].

Source: https://pl.freepik.com/darmowe-zdjecie/mloda-kobieta-otoczona-stosami-ubran_19510644.htm

“The movement works towards creating an industry that benefits the planet and all people.” –  Kate Fletcher. 

[1] ProjectCECE “The Problem with Fast Fashion: Cheap Clothes, High Hidden Costs”  https://www.projectcece.com/blog/400/problem-with-fast-fashion/