The Dark Side of Fast Fashion: A Reality Check

In the fast fashion world, it's tempting to shop a lot of the latest trends at low prices. Behind the cheap price tags on the big fashion brands in Fast Fashion and Ultra Fast Fashion, however, hides a darker reality: An industry that affects both people and the planet in a very negative way.

Human rights: the price of cheap production

One of the most alarming aspects of Fast Fashion is its effect on workers' rights. To be able to produce clothes at such low prices, many companies choose to outsource their manufacturing to countries with weak labor laws and lack of regulations. This often leads to the exploitation of workers, with low wages, poor working conditions and a lack of trade union rights. Workers are also at risk of being exposed to dangerous working environments and long working days, often without breaks and very few toilet visits, which violate basic human rights.

Climate change: An increased environmental impact

In addition to human rights, Fast Fashion also has a significant negative impact on the environment. The rapid production of clothing generates enormous amounts of waste and overconsumption. Non-biodegradable materials, such as polyester and other synthetic fibers, contribute to plastic pollution in oceans and land. In addition, the production of clothing requires large amounts of water and energy, which increases global warming and contributes to climate change. The fashion industry is estimated to account for 10 percent of global carbon dioxide emissions – more than international flights and shipping combined. According to the European Environment Agency, textile purchases in the EU in 2020 generated approximately 270 kg of CO2 emissions per person.

Ultra Fast Fashion: Accelerated negative impact

Ultra fast fashion companies like Shein and Temu have taken this to an even faster level. Their business model is based on extremely fast production and distribution of new trends at super low prices. This leads to an even greater impact on the environment and workers' rights, as the pressure to quickly produce and deliver new clothes is constantly increasing.

Conscious choices for a sustainable and better future

By opting out of Fast Fashion and Ultra Fast Fashion, we can all contribute to a better world. By supporting actors in Slow Fashion, second hand and sustainable clothing, we value both human rights and the environment. Being aware of our consumption choices is an important step towards creating a fashion industry that is fairer and more sustainable for all.

The change starts with us.