Fashion trends are constantly evolving with new styles emerging rapidly. Every day, we see a lot brands release new collections in a blink of an eye. Everyone gets excited with the new models and trends. However, many people seem to overlook the fact that fast fashion contributes to 10% of global carbon emissions, which is more than the combined emissions from all international flights and maritime shipping, alongside any other harmful impact.
This article will break down the hidden cost behind fast fashion that many people seem to love.
Fast Fashion 101: What It Is and How It Took Over
Fast fashion first emerged in the 20th century after technology evolved during the Industrial Revolution. New equipment to produce clothes, like sewing machines, combined and fastened the production of a single cloth. Retailers started reducing the gap between design and retail, enabling them to swiftly introduce new styles inspired by high-end fashion at affordable prices.
The term “fast fashion,” then popularized in the early 1990s, refers to the rapid and inexpensive production of clothes. The industry was finally able to transform garments from design to store shelves in record time, thus attributed to its ability to quickly adapt to changing fashion trends offering consumers the latest styles at affordable prices. This situation is mainly the reason why fast fashion became successful in taking over the industry.
Despite the success, what the industry failed to consider in the beginning of its emergence is the harmful impact towards the environment. It widely affects water, air, and landfills.
1. Water Consumption and Pollution
Apparently, the fashion industry is a major consumer of water. It takes approximately 2,700 liters of water to produce a single cotton t-shirt, which is enough water for one person to drink for 2.5 years. The production of denim jeans is even more water-intensive, requiring up to 7,500 liters of water per pair.
Moreover, the dyeing and treatment of textiles contribute significantly to water pollution. The fashion industry is responsible for 20% of global wastewater. Toxic chemicals from dyes and treatments often end up in rivers and oceans, harming aquatic life and contaminating drinking water sources. For example, in countries like Bangladesh and India, where much of the world's clothing is produced, rivers near textile factories are often visibly polluted with hazardous chemicals.
2. Greenhouse Gas Emissions
The fast fashion industry significantly contributes to climate change. It is estimated that the fashion industry alone accounts for 10% of global carbon emissions, surpassing all international flights and maritime shipping combined. The production of synthetic fibers, particularly polyester derived from fossil fuels, is particularly carbon intensive. Polyester production alone emits an astonishing 706 million tons of CO2 annually.
Furthermore, the transportation of clothing from manufacturing hubs in Asia to consumers in Europe and North America further exacerbates the industry’s carbon footprint. The rise of online shopping and expedited shipping options has only intensified this issue. Consumers’ demand for faster delivery times has led to more frequent air shipments, contributing to the industry’s carbon emissions.
3. Textile Waste and Landfill Overflow
Fast fashion promotes a culture of disposability, where clothing is frequently worn only a few times before being discarded. Consequently, the average consumer today purchases 60% more clothing compared to 15 years ago, yet keeps each garment for half as long. As a result, the world generates an alarming 92 million tons of textile waste annually, and this figure is projected to rise to 134 million tons by 2030.
A significant portion of this waste finds its way into landfills, where synthetic fibers such as polyester can take hundreds of years to decompose. In the United States alone, a staggering 85% of all textiles end up in landfills each year, amounting to a whopping 21 billion pounds of waste. The decomposition of these textiles further contributes to climate change by releasing methane, a potent greenhouse gas.
4. Microfiber Pollution
Another frequently overlooked environmental impact of fast fashion is microfiber pollution. Synthetic fabrics like polyester, nylon, and acrylic release tiny plastic fibers called microfibers during washing. These microfibers are too small to be captured by wastewater treatment plants and end up in oceans and waterways. It’s estimated that 500,000 tons of microfibers are released into the ocean annually, equivalent to 50 billion plastic bottles.
Microfibers are ingested by marine life, entering the food chain and potentially posing risks to human health. Studies have revealed microplastics in 90% of bottled water and 83% of tap water samples worldwide, underscoring the widespread nature of this pollution.
5. Deforestation and Biodiversity Loss
The fashion industry, particularly in the production of viscose and rayon, which are derived from
wood pulp significantly contributes to deforestation. The insatiable demand for these fabrics has resulted in the annual destruction of 70 million trees. This deforestation not only exacerbates
climate change by diminishing the number of trees capable of absorbing CO2 but also leads to the loss of biodiversity and the destruction of habitats for numerous species.
Time for Change
Fast fashion’s environmental impact is undeniable, contributing to excessive water use, pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, textile waste, and microfiber contamination. This industry places a significant strain on the planet, but as consumers, we have the power to make a difference. By choosing sustainable brands, reducing overconsumption, and investing in durable, high-quality clothing, we can drive meaningful change. At the same time, governments and corporations must step up by enforcing stricter regulations and prioritizing sustainable solutions.
At Shinaraa, we are committed to redefining fashion with a conscious approach. Our design to retail process takes 4–6 months, ensuring that every piece is thoughtfully crafted. We hand-select organic fabrics from different parts of Southeast Asia, incorporating discarded seashell buttons and innovative Track-Your-Wear labels to promote garment longevity and versatility. Every detail reflects our belief in slow fashion, proving that style and sustainability can go hand in hand.
Now is the time to act. Through mindful decisions and holding the fashion industry accountable,
We can reduce its environmental harm and work toward a more sustainable future. Join us on this journey - follow Shinaraa on Instagram and LinkedIn to be part of the movement.
🔗 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shinaraa_official/