82% of the clothes that hang in America’s closets never see the light of day. And it’s not just Americans that buy shirts, shoes and shorts they never wear.
The fast fashion trend has resulted in new styles, at bargain prices, being released every few weeks–increasing the quantity of clothes that are made and thrown away. The environmental impact of the textile industry is considerable. For example:
· 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions result from textile production, which is more than maritime shipping and all international flights combined.
· 2,700 liters of water are used to produce just one t-shirt. This would be enough drinking water for a person for 2.5 years.
· Every year, 0.5 million tons of microfibers from washing synthetics go into the ocean. This is 35% of the microplastics that pollute the environment. (Source)
Research and switch to clothing brands that offset the environmental impact of their business and promote circular fashion.
Far better: Spread the word. Talk about the impact of our fashion addiction and organize friends and families to do something about it.