Sustainable fashion: A catalyst for change in the society and the environment

Sustainable fashion is not a fleeting trend but a powerful movement that is gaining momentum every day. With G20 countries committed to fostering sustainable living, the fashion industry is becoming increasingly environmentally conscious in its practices. The heightened understanding has spurred changes within the industry to shift from the traditional linear model of fashion production to adopt a more ethical and sustainable approach.

Contrary to popular belief, sustainable fashion is not only about reducing carbon footprints. It entails building a regenerative, creative, and diverse system that supports the well-being of individuals and the planet. This is enabled by creating products that have a minimal environmental impact and are socially responsible. Sustainable fashion encourages to embrace a fresh way of living, thinking and dressing.

The trend, which started in the late 1980s with brands introducing environmental practices into their businesses, is now at its peak. There is a growing need in the industry to take a responsible approach when creating clothes, which so far has been centred around delivering to the needs of the consumers and flourishing their business. In this entire process, the health of the planet and the interest of people associated with business remained a bit out of focus. Now, with countries committed to meeting the United Nations’ 17 defined Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and reaching the net zero goals by 2050, there is a growing call for action.

From an environmental point of view, the current fast fashion business models impact the environment in more than one way. The brand’s pursuit of replicating high-fashion designs, coupled with the excessive use of synthetic fabrics and chemical dyes, has escalated the production of greenhouse gases and contamination of water and land. This, according to the UNEP and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation report, majorly contributes to 10% of human carbon emissions by the industry. Moreover, it leads to the consumption of about 93 billion cubic meters of water annually. But this is not it. The industry’s labour practices also pose a risk to the health and well-being of workers, impacting their overall quality of life.

Responsible fashion seeks to address these challenges and build a world that prioritises natural resources and people’s well-being. To reduce the industry’s burden on the environment, it encourages the use of eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, bamboo, hemp, or jute, and replaces synthetic dyes with natural colourings. Switching to a natural source of colouring and finishing will help to reduce the risk of modern-day water pollution, which according to the World Bank contributes to 17-20% of pollution. Natural fabrics are easier to decompose compared to synthetic ones that often end up in landfills and clog water bodies for years. They are skin-friendly and protect from harmful UV rays.

Additionally, sustainability aims to promote a circular fashion economy to reduce carbon emissions, water wastage, and electricity consumption required in producing fresh fabric from raw materials every time. The circular economy is also relevant in the supply chain system to reduce textile waste and adopt more sustainable practices.

Concerning society, green fashion promotes a healthy working environment for craftsmen and labourers, by encouraging conscious fashion and providing them with industry-standard wages. In the context of India, where the population is over 1.4 billion, labourers are frequently employed at minimal wages. As a result, many fear carrying forwards traditional forms of arts and crafts due to low-profit margins.

Sustainable fashion aims to preserve the country’s rich heritage and inspire future generations to continue its legacy. The fair-trade practice can help to make the system transparent and make sustainable efforts measurable.
To meet the SDGs, also known as the Global Goals, adopted by the United Nations in 2015 and help companies expedite their efforts, the government of India has taken several measures. As part of Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment), they have introduced several lifestyle practices that can promote climate-friendly behaviour. Along with that, they are encouraging the concept of “reduce, reuse, and recycle” to preserve the environment and lower the carbon footprint.

In spite of all these efforts, reaching sustainability goals looks like a far-fetched dream due to its complex nature. It demands long-term planning and execution to achieve the desired objective. But taking small steps in the right direction one day at a time can bring about a noticeable impact. Sustainable fashion is not only about changing the way the industry works but preserving the precious world that will be passed down to the future generation. Besides, practising sustainable fashion is the responsibility of everyone, including consumers. Choosing sustainable fashion is a way to define your values and your commitment to the planet and other beings. It is about creating a more equitable and sustainable world for all.

(This article is authored by Brij Mohan Sharma, Joint Managing Director, RSWM Ltd., LNJ Bhilwara Group)

Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of ET Edge Insights, its management, or its members

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