If you are just getting started in terms of caring for the planet and sustainability in the fashion industry, first, we will summarize the environmental impact of textile production.

 

What are the environmental impacts associated with the production chain?

We could point out the following:

  • Waste generation: throughout the entire production process a large amount of waste is generated:
    • Remnants of textile fibers, fabric scraps.
    • Waste resulting from packaging, containers or wrapping.
    • Remnants from the use of inks, paints, varnishes or other chemical products (solvents, oils, grease, etc.).
    • Waste oil and water or hydrocarbons and water. Waste from the use of resins, plasticizers or glues.
  • Use of chemical products for textile finishing that are discharged into the environment generating toxic waste.
  • High energy consumption for the operation of the machinery used in all stages of production.
  • Generation of discharges into the water with toxic components, such as detergents for washing, chemical substances for the treatment of textile fibers.
  • There are also emissions of pollutants into the atmosphere from, for example, water heating boilers. In addition, during the fabric washing and dying process, aerosols and vapors are emitted into the atmosphere.
  • Water consumption: Textile manufacturing uses significant amounts of water during the different stages of the production process, especially in finishing activities.

The textile sector is one of the most important in the world, there is an urgent need to create a new model based on the concept of sustainable fashion.

 

Now, what can consumers do to promote sustainable fashion?

 

The consumer also has a lot to say in implementing the concept of sustainable fashion. Here are some of the consumption patterns that can help you to consume responsibly:

  • Reduce consumption, and make responsible use, buy timeless garments. If we go back to the early 1900’s, ladies at each change of season kept their clothes with special papers, to prevent deterioration and also the quality of the garments made them more durable. It was not customary to buy «fashionable» garments every season. Rather, the idea was to buy fewer garments that would last longer and sometimes even be passed down from generation to generation.
  • Always pay attention to the materials used for their creation. Choose recycled materials or natural fibers.
  • The place of manufacture: Ideally local or based in some country where workers’ rights are respected.
  • Give garments a second life: exchange garments, sell them, deposit them in second-hand stores, reuse them for another use or deposit them in a recycling container.
  • Evaluate the manufacturer or distributor, prioritizing those companies with certified Environmental Management Systems (EMAS or ISO14001) or other environmental certifications.
  • Wear second-hand clothing.

 

Now that we have given you some tips to take care of our environment, are you willing to do your part? Not only are you helping the planet, but you are also supporting our artisans, each one of them means a family that with love and effort creates that garment for you to give it life.