The term “sustainability,” etymologically derived from the concept of resistance (“to hold,” “to sustain,” but also “to stop”), is no longer just an abstract notion but rather the pivot through which we can interpret the world around us. It is the engine that fuels our commitment to addressing climate challenges and adapting to a constantly changing global landscape.
But what does it really mean when it comes to fashion? Sustainability is the buzzword that has stormed the fashion world, especially in the last five years. It’s not just a trend but an imperative necessity that humanity, and particularly the new generations, must face. Fashion, often accused of excessive consumption, poor quality, and difficulty in recycling, is now under scrutiny.
But what does it truly mean to be sustainable in fashion? It’s more than a trend; it’s a commitment that involves every stage, from production to the end of the garment’s life. This article will explore how sustainability and responsibility are becoming the new pillars of contemporary fashion, shaping our lifestyle and our impact on the planet with tangible actions.
The Renaissance of Quality
Sustainable fashion is not just about recycled materials but also about intrinsic quality. Abandoning the era of low-cost and short-lived clothing, brands are embracing quality as a fundamental value. Sustainability in fashion doesn’t begin only when the garment reaches our closets. It starts from the design process, material selection, and continues throughout the entire production chain to the end of the garment’s life. Ensuring sustainability requires a comprehensive commitment, involving every aspect, from creation to disposal. Only then can we assert with certainty that each garment is the result of a responsible process towards the planet and people.
Revolutionary Materials
Sustainable fashion is moving beyond recycling, embracing innovative and revolutionary materials. Biodegradable fabrics, plant fibers, and low-impact environmental materials are increasingly taking center stage on the runways. This transition to more sustainable resources demonstrates that sustainability is more than just a fashion word but a deliberate choice to protect our planet.
Sustainability in Design
Sustainability is not just about materials but also about design. Creating timeless and versatile pieces is a key strategy to combat the “fast fashion” culture that has dominated recent trends. Designers play a crucial role in shaping the direction of sustainable fashion, encouraging conscious buying and long-term durability.
Circularity
A frequently overlooked aspect of sustainable fashion is the final destination of garments. Responsibility doesn’t end when we put the garment in the closet. Responsibility in fashion extends beyond production, reaching the heart of the issue: what to do when a garment has exhausted its lifecycle? The circular approach is gaining ground, encouraging reuse, recycling, and even transforming old garments into new treasures. This further step towards sustainability shows that the industry is addressing responsibility with concrete actions.
Conscious Consumption
Responsibility in fashion is not solely on the shoulders of companies. We, as consumers, also have a crucial role. Conscious purchasing is a powerful act. It means choosing quality garments, investing in durable pieces, and resisting the temptations of fast fashion. When we understand the power of our purchasing choices, we become an integral part of the movement towards more sustainable and responsible fashion.
Education and Awareness
Sustainability in fashion cannot exist without a shift in consumer mindset. Education and awareness are essential to create an audience that demands accountability from brands. The youth, in particular, play a key role in this process. Adopting sustainable lifestyles and being informed about ethical practices in the industry are essential to ensure that sustainability becomes a daily practice, not just a trendy word.
Conclusion
We should always remember that there is no product completely sustainable from an ecological perspective. However, it is crucial to set the goal of producing while minimizing the impact on ecosystems and reducing processing waste. More importantly, we must understand that environmental sustainability is closely connected to social sustainability (rarely the other way around). The connection between environmental and social sustainability reflects the interdependence between the environment we live in and human communities. The well-being of people and the environment is intertwined in complex ways. To achieve overall sustainability, it is necessary to consider and address social issues along with environmental challenges.
A crucial issue would be to intensify research into material recycling technologies and effective separation of various types of materials to promote more sustainable resource management, contributing to the well-being of the planet and future generations.
In conclusion, sustainability and responsibility in fashion are not just trendy words but a concrete commitment to a better future.
Recommended book
“Sustainable Fashion: What’s Next? A Conversation about Issues, Practices, and Possibilities” by Janet Hethorn and Connie Ulasewicz: The authors explore the challenges and opportunities of sustainable fashion, providing a comprehensive overview of current and future practices.
Sources
Fashion Revolution. (2022). “Fashion Revolution – Global Movement Calling for a Fashion Industry That Values People, the Environment, Creativity, and Profit in Equal Measure.” Retrieved from [https://www.fashionrevolution.org/]
Ellen MacArthur Foundation. (2022). “Circular Economy in Fashion.” Retrieved from [https://www.ellenmacarthurfoundation.org/our-work/activities/make-fashion-circular]