How I’m Saving The Planet With My Clothes
“I got it this morning - and saved the planet.” I say to my housemates every time I cat-walk an item of clothing over their bowl of cereal.
Call me the Wonder Woman of sustainable fashion: I’ve saved fifteen items from going to the dump along with the other 85% of textiles produced. I deserve a sustainable fashion cape.
Want your sustainable fashion cape too? Here are 4 easy things you can do to combat the damage of fast fashion on our environment by using charity shops to shop sustainably.
1. Upcycle
Make use of the clothes you already have.
Greenpeace calculated that: “Every single second, 2,625 kilograms of clothing becomes waste that needs dealing with in some way. This is enough to fill the Empire State building one and a half times every single day.”
Think: Do I really need to buy something new when I can upcycle what I already own? - Maybe that old dress could become a strappy top.
2. Avoid online shopping, especially from big fast fashion brands
“The fashion industry produces 10% of all humanity’s carbon emissions, is the second-largest consumer of the world’s water supply, and pollutes the oceans with microplastics” said Business Insider.
Yes, fashion is a way of expressing ourselves, and we all love some retail therapy. But by cutting this back and wearing something we already own (or borrowing from a friend), it stops the energy-consuming process of the same looking top being thrown down the production line and then chucked through your letterbox.
3. Recycle
Donating extends the life of each item, so they can keep bringing joy to multiple wardrobes - someone else can love your old outfits and give them a new life.
4. Shop at Charity Shops
The New York Times found that 60% of fabric fibres are made from synthetics (aka. Made from fossil fuels).
Even if you don’t think you can cut back on the online shopping (but I have 100% faith that you can) before you go and do your next-day- delivery ASOS haul, take a look around your local charity shops. A whole range of clothes are waiting to be re-homed.
Each item you buy means that costs of initial production on our environment are massively reduced: one item with five lifetimes is better for our planet than five items with just one lifetime each.
You might even find an item of clothing you keep reaching for to wear with almost every outfit – just like I have after finding a grey jumper, with a high neck and balloon sleeves for only £3. I’ve also found the best fitting jeans, skirts and dresses, and a smart coat.
There’s been no big dent in my bank account or, most importantly, no adverse effect on our environment. Also, you’re donating to a good cause – so really, you’re helping everyone: well done you!
If you’re not sure where your local shop is, pop your postcode in at Charity Retail Association.
Think before you shop: Pick charity shops and earn your sustainable fashion cape.
Written by Abi Purvis
Hi, I’m Abi. I’m a freelance writer, as well as a hiker, climber and an environmentally minded individual. I also have my own lifestyle blog and Instagram. Since graduating I am Duolingo obsessed and have an 105 day streak learning French.