Embedded Files
ECO-CHIC WON THE NOTABLE AWARD IN THE 2020 OCEAN AWARENESS CONTEST
Although progress has been made, our oceans and all its creatures are mostly deteriorating, and the cause for this is largely human development. One such industry--under the umbrella of human development--that is responsible for deteriorating ocean health is fast fashion.
What's Fast Fashion?
"Fast-Fashion" is the production of clothing in bulk and at a fast pace in response to the latest trend, where clothing is largely polyester-based. Most clothing is also produced without paying attention to any effects of the same to the workers and/or the environment. Due to its convenience and cheap production costs, "fast-fashion" clothing is cheaper.
The Polyester Problem
Most "fast-fashion" clothing items rely heavily on polyester because it is one of the cheapest textile materials. Polyester is made from petroleum (extracted from crude oil). Oil extraction is extremely dangerous to all marine life as it risks oil-spills. Furthermore, oil to polyester conversion is an energy-intensive process that releases emissions that jeopardize the health of laborers and the environment.
Additionally, when garments made out of polyester are washed, they release more than 700,000 microfibers per load into the sewer systems.
These fibers take years to decompose, and are often eaten by marine animals or are stuck in filtration systems, sometimes bypassing them, and ending up in our own water.
Image above captures the 2017 case of seweage outfall into the oceans from South Floridian counties.
Although fast-fashion may at first seem like the best buy for your buck, you only lose in the long term.
Google Sites
Report abuse