Why Fast Fashion Isn’t Sustainable Anymore

Fast fashion is a term used to describe the mass production of inexpensive clothing. The term is used to describe the rapid pace at which new clothing collections are produced by retailers in order to keep up with the latest trends. While fast fashion has become increasingly popular in recent years, it is not a sustainable practice. In this blog post, we will explore some of the reasons why fast fashion is not sustainable anymore.

First, fast fashion relies heavily on the use of cheap, low-quality materials. These materials are often sourced from developing countries, where labor is cheap and environmental regulations are lax. The use of cheap materials results in clothing that is poorly made and unlikely to last. This not only results in clothes that fall apart after just a few wears, but also contributes to the problem of textile waste, as these clothes are quickly discarded.

Second, the fast pace of production in the fast fashion industry puts a lot of pressure on workers. Many workers in the fast fashion industry are not paid a living wage and are subjected to long hours and unsafe working conditions. This exploits the workers and perpetuates poverty and inequality.

Third, fast fashion is environmentally damaging. The rapid pace of production requires large amounts of energy and water, and generates a significant amount of greenhouse gas emissions. The use of cheap, synthetic materials also contributes to the problem of micro-plastic pollution, as these materials do not break down in the environment. Additionally, fast fashion contributes to the problem of textile waste, as clothes are quickly discarded and end up in landfills.

Overall, fast fashion is not sustainable because it relies on cheap, low-quality materials, exploits workers, and is environmentally damaging. It is important for consumers to be aware of these issues and to make more sustainable choices when it comes to buying clothes. This can include buying clothes made from natural, sustainable materials, supporting brands that have fair labor practices, and investing in clothes that will last. We can also be mindful of the number of clothes we buy and make and be sure we wear them multiple times before discarding them.

When it comes to creating your own merchandise an alternative to fast fashion is print on demand. Print on demand minimises waste by only producing items that are ordered. This reduces wasted inventory that may end up in landfills. At Merchr we also offer an eco friendly range featuring reusable products and items made from organic materials. See our Eco Friendly range HERE.?

In conclusion, fast fashion is not sustainable and it’s important to consider the environmental and social impacts of our fashion choices. Changing our shopping habits can help to create a more sustainable fashion industry that supports workers, the environment, and responsible consumption. It is also worth considering these factors when it comes to creating your own merchandise and through opting for print on demand you can minimise waste and offer eco friendly products.