POLLUTION

Fast fashion is a business model that prioritises producing a large quantity of clothing at low cost, with the intention of keeping up with rapidly changing fashion trends. The result of this model is a high volume of clothing production, often made from synthetic materials that are not biodegradable and require a large amount of water and energy to produce.

The impacts of fast fashion on waste and water pollution are significant. According to a report by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions, and is the second largest consumer of water worldwide. Additionally, the report found that the fashion industry produces 92 million tons of waste each year, much of which ends up in landfills.

One of the key factors contributing to waste in the fashion industry is the use of synthetic materials, such as polyester, which is a petroleum-based fiber that does not biodegrade. In addition to the waste generated by discarded clothing, the production of synthetic materials also contributes to water pollution through the release of microplastics into waterways.

The production of cotton, which is the most commonly used natural fiber in clothing production, also contributes to water pollution. Cotton requires a significant amount of water to grow, and the use of pesticides and fertilizers can contaminate water sources.

Overall, the impact of fast fashion on waste and water pollution is significant, and there is a growing movement towards sustainable fashion practices. This includes using more environmentally-friendly materials, reducing waste through the use of circular economy models, and adopting responsible production practices.