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- Photo: martinjefferies / Flickr
According to Lucy Siegle’s book To Die For, we’re buying an average of 28 kilograms of clothing per person per year but we only wear 10 per cent of what’s in our wardrobes. This is something to think about. Greenpeace has put out some tips on how to reduce your fashion footprint. The first question to consider is ‘Do you really need it?’ If you think you do, then read on for some eco-friendly fashion guidance.
Go second hand
If you’ve decided you’ve got to have it, consider the option of buying it second hand. ‘Charity shops, vintage stores and eBay are packed full of clothes – check them out and pick up a bargain.’
Pick classics
The next question is if the clothing you’re considering is truly ecologically sound. Will you be able to wear it over and over? Buying classics is far more sustainable than buying fast fashion. ‘And if they go “out of fashion” mothball them – you’ll be surprised how quickly styles come round again.’
Classics are generally of a higher quality and Greenpeace recommends buying well-crafted clothes that are made to last. Even if you’re not buying a classic, focus on quality. Check how well the soles of shoes are made, for example. Check buttons, zippers and seams.
Planet-friendly fabric choices
Is the item you’re considering made from recycled materials or environmentally-friendly dyes and fabrics? Look out for green products in green stores or online.
If you’re going to buy cotton, choose organic cotton which is grown in toxin-free fields. Greenpeace warns that conventional cotton ‘is a delicate plant that is pampered with fertilisers and pesticides, and heavily irrigated. According to the Water Footprint Network, just one 250g cotton shirt is estimated to use 150g of pesticides and up to 2,720 litres of water.’
Don’t throw old clothes out
Before throwing old things out, consider refashioning them or taking them to the local tailor to fix them up if necessary.
The last fashion footprint tip for now: check the label before you buy. Greenpeace advises that you ‘inform yourself about the different eco-labels and what they really mean by visiting Eco Label Index or Eco Textile.’
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