Victims of the fashion industry. Little is known yet, but it represents the second source of pollution behind the oil industry. In a few figures: this industry produces more than 140 billion pieces of clothing every year across the planet. We throw away an average of 30 kilos in a trash can.
In addition, their synthetic fibers derived from petroleum have a colossal impact. With each wash, for example, your polyester blouse releases plastic microfibers that are now unfiltered. They are then found in the belly of fish and then in ours.
Betting on natural fibers: a good idea?
It can be a less polluting alternative. But an organic cotton polo shirt requires the water equivalent of 85 3-minute showers. So that’s 2,600 liters of water for a polo shirt. It’s worse for jeans: up to a year of showers, or 11,000 liters.
In addition, there are pesticides linked to cotton cultivation. As well as coloring by highly toxic chemicals responsible for 20% of aquatic pollution in the world.
Result, between the transport of clothes, the 80% thrown directly in the trash without being recycled, the detergents, the energy and the water necessary for their washing and ironing, the impact is colossal.
How to stay in fashion without ruining the planet?
The first cause of this pollution is our overconsumption. We never wear a third of our wardrobe! On Vinted, 25% of sales relate to new habits. So, the very first solution is to quickly start by buying less!
Consider renting clothes. Renting them is a nice alternative, less burdensome for the planet, your wallet. And it will be less easy to tire yourself out.
Brands finally seem to be realizing their impact and their responsibilities. They are 200 to have signed the Fashion Pact since 2019 with objectives for the climate and biodiversity. These objectives, on the other hand, are less important for the ocean. Indeed, they do not relate to the reduction of packaging plastics, 50% of which will be recycled.
On the other hand, the second-hand market continues to develop strongly: by 2040, 50% of our purchases will be second-hand clothes.