Introduction

The proliferation of fast fashion sees the industry producing nearly 100 billion new garments a year (Monash University), and a third end up in the landfill within the first year of purchase. Fortunately, consumers (especially Generation Z) have become more conscious about their purchases, championing sustainable and ethical brands. No matter how much a consumer purchases second-hand, rents, or changes their laundry habits – there is only so much a consumer can do, so why not start from the producers instead?

(Image Courtesy: Unsplash)

CRADLE-TO-GRAVE CARBON FOOTPRINT

The greenhouse gas protocol categorises emissions created by a company and its value chain into three scopes:

  • SCOPE 1: BURN
    Direct emissions from sources owned or controlled by the company (e.g. fuel and energy-related activities)
  • SCOPE 2: BUY
    Indirect emissions from the generation of purchased energy (e.g. electricity, heat, steam)
  • SCOPE 3: BEYOND
    Indirect emissions from upstream (e.g. manufacturer, supplier) and downstream (e.g.customers, retailers) activities associated with the organisation
Pollution
in Textile Industry
  • Textile production emits 1.2 billion tons of carbon dioxide per year, and is predicted to increase by more than 50% by 2030
  • Fashion accounts for up to 10% of greenhouse gas emissions
  • Third-largest polluter, fashion emits more carbon than international flights and maritime shipping 200 million trees are logged every year to make cellulosic fabric 
  • One garbage truck of clothes is burned or sent to a landfill every second