Whether you’re interested in buying more sustainable clothing or want to make a few adjustments to your wardrobe by utilizing the most eco friendly fabric, there are some tips you can try. The tips in this article will help you make the most of your money while protecting the environment and your clothing.
The Carbon Footprint of The Fashion Industry
Whether or not you know of it, the fashion industry generates a huge carbon footprint. The industry contributes three to ten percent of global greenhouse gas emissions. This staggering figure has been linked to several environmental impacts, including air pollution, water pollution, and pesticide use.
The fashion industry produces 60 million tonnes of garments per year. These garments are sold around the world. Therefore, the industry’s emissions include the garment’s entire life cycle.
The industry also produces a lot of waste. Over 85% of textiles end up in the trash or landfill. This means less than 1% of clothing material is recycled into new clothing. In addition, the deterioration of textile waste releases greenhouse gases.
We must adopt a systemic approach to tackle the fashion industry’s carbon footprint. This involves stakeholder collaboration and government policy to ensure a sustainable fashion system is created. In addition to this, individual actions can also have a significant impact.
GOTS Certification
GOTS certification is an independent and third-party certification that guarantees ethical products. It is recognized as one of the world’s most popular textile standards. It covers all aspects of textile production. It includes ecological, social, trading, manufacturing, and distribution criteria.
GOTS certification is based on strict environmental and social criteria. It guarantees that products meet a standard of environmental responsibility and ethical manufacturing.
GOTS-certified clothing must be manufactured and processed using 70% organic fibers. It also requires that all chemical inputs meet toxicological criteria. For example, it prohibits heavy metals, formaldehyde, aromatic solvents, and carcinogenic amine compounds.
It also requires that GOTS-certified clothing undergoes extensive testing for harmful contaminants in independent laboratories. GOTS-certified clothing must also contain minimal waste and discharges.
Washing Your Clothes Less Often
Taking good care of your clothing can extend its lifespan, reduce its carbon footprint and save you money in the long run. One of the most important ways to do this is to wash your clothes less often.
The average American family washes 300 loads of laundry a year. This results in a significant amount of water and energy usage. In addition, clothes require frequent washing because of sweat, odors, and visible stains.
The amount of energy required to wash a single item is the most obvious measure of the power of washing. However, most of this energy goes towards heating water. Therefore, a much better way to save energy is to wash several items at once.
The most efficient way to wash your clothes is to use cold water. The warmer the water, the more likely it will shrink your clothes. You can also use vinegar or baking soda as a fabric softener alternative. This will also keep your clothes looking their best for longer.
Renting
Using a clothing rental service is a good way to reduce the environmental impact of fashion. It can save you money, time, and effort and help you keep up with the latest trends without purchasing a new wardrobe every season.
Clothing rental is a booming industry. Many big brand names are capitalizing on the success of this model. Clothing rental platforms are also gaining traction within the sustainability community.
Clothing Swaps
Having a clothing swap is an eco-friendly way to buy new clothes. It also helps you declutter your closet. It’s also a fun way to meet people. It can help you save money, too.
The first step to having a clothing swap is to get a good group of people together. Ideally, it would help if you invited friends and family. You can still organize a clothing swap if you have a small group. You can do it in a classroom, library, community center, or living room.
Secondly, you should consider how many pieces you can offer. You can choose to offer several sizes or a variety of styles. You can also offer your clothes on a donation basis.
Lastly, it would help if you planned how to display your clothes. For example, you can hang them on a clothes rack or a table.
