Globally, the fashion industry accounts for a major proportion of the economy, directly contributing to over USD 2.5 trillion and providing employment opportunities to more than 75 million people. According to research, in India alone, the revenue generated in the fashion segment is estimated to reach USD 19.86 billion in 2023. Moreover, the revenue is also expected to showcase an annual growth rate of 13.35% (CAGR 2023-27), with a projected market volume of USD 32.79 billion by 2027.
The Environmental Impact of the Fashion Industry
While the fashion sector showcases tremendous growth, it has also been responsible for adverse impacts on the environment, resulting in overall wastage. According to reports, fashion production itself accounts for up to 10% of carbon emissions. Other end products are polluted water bodies owing to the release of criminal amounts of microplastics in the ocean, dried-up water sources, and around 85% of textiles being wasted every year. It is estimated that by 2030, the fashion industry’s greenhouse gas emissions will increase by over 50%.
Conscious Fashion
One of the major positives of the current era has been the rising awareness around exercising sustainability among many new-age consumers. According to research, it has been estimated that around 25% of consumers in developed nations are now aware of how clothes will have an impact on the climate. The changing dynamic has led to the growing popularity of conscious clothing and thrift shopping. Conscious fashion, in general, is a crucial aspect of the sustainable fashion movement that pledges to revolutionise the clothing industry into being more economically friendly, fair, and ethical.
Since fast fashion is at the centre of increased carbon emissions and wastewater production, it is a wise move to make a conscious shift to sustainable fabrics. Made from natural or recycled materials, such sustainable fabrics can account for reduced carbon emissions and waste along with water conservation and soil regeneration.
Some prominent examples of sustainable fabrics are shared below.
1. Organic Cotton
It is grown using methods that have a very low impact on the environment. Contrary to conventional cotton, which is a very chemical-intensive crop, organic cotton is grown without the use of toxic pesticides, genetically modified seeds, or synthetic fertilisers. However, if you want to opt for the most sustainable cotton, it is a good idea to look for recycled cotton. It is produced using post-industrial and post-consumer cotton waste and can help reduce water and energy consumption.
2. Organic Hemp
Considered a particular type of cannabis plant, the use of hemp is usually subject to a specialty licence to grow. The quick-growing plant does not end up exhausting the soil and doesn’t require the use of pesticides. Most importantly, the fabric derived from the plant is very diverse in use and very comfortable on the skin, making it a common replacement for cotton.
3. Organic Linen
Organic Linen is similar to hemp in many ways, with its versatility being one of its biggest advantages. Another pro is that it requires less water and pesticide use, and also has the ability to grow in poor-quality soil.
4. Recycled Wool
Unlike animal-based wool, which is known for its ethical concerns, recycled wool is a fabric that has reduced environmental and ethical impacts. It has a high demand with respect to sustainable fabrics as it is highly diverse and easy to mix with other materials.
5. Silk
Silk is a sustainable fabric that uses less water, energy, and chemicals in production as compared to many other fabrics. It is also a durable fabric that does not shed microplastics into the environment when washed.
To conclude, sustainability in the fashion industry will not only lead to a reduced carbon footprint but will also promote energy and water consumption. Therefore, it is the need of the hour for leading companies, fashion brands, and consumers to unite together in encouraging sustainable practices as well as fabrics on a global scale.
