Woman with shopping bags standing in a trash-strewn area with mountains in the background

THE DARK SIDE OF FAST FASHION

A REALITY CHECK

In the fast-paced world of fashion, it’s tempting to buy lots of the latest trends at low prices. Behind the low price tags of the major fast fashion and ultra-fast fashion brands, however, lies a darker reality: an industry that has a very negative impact on both people and the planet.

HUMAN RIGHTS

One of the most alarming aspects of fast fashion is its impact on workers’ rights. In order to produce clothing at such low prices, many companies choose to outsource their manufacturing to countries with weak labour laws and inadequate regulations. This often leads to the exploitation of workers, with low wages, poor working conditions and a lack of trade union rights. Workers also risk being exposed to hazardous working environments and long working days, often without breaks and with very few toilet breaks, which contravenes fundamental human rights.

AN INCREASED ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

In addition to human rights issues, fast fashion also has a significant negative impact on the environment. The rapid production of clothing generates enormous amounts of waste and leads to overconsumption. Non-biodegradable materials, such as polyester and other synthetic fibres, contribute to plastic pollution in the oceans and on land.

Furthermore, the manufacture of clothing requires large amounts of water and energy, which exacerbates global warming and contributes to climate change.

The fashion industry is estimated to account for 10 per cent 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- the accelerator

Ultra-fast fashion companies such as Shein and Temu have taken this to an even faster level. Their business model is based on the extremely rapid production and distribution of new trends at rock-bottom 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 THE FUTURE

By choosing NOT to buy fast fashion and ultra-fast fashion, we can all contribute to a better world. By supporting brands and retailers in the slow fashion, second-hand and sustainable clothing sectors, we are placing value on both human rights and the environment. Being mindful of our consumption choices is an important step towards creating a fashion industry that is fairer and more sustainable for everyone.

Change starts with us.

The Rana Plaza factory collapse in Bangladesh in 2013