What Does "Sustainable" Mean in Fashion?

Have you ever noticed clothing brands using the word "sustainable" and wondered what it truly means? Does it refer to natural fabrics, or is there more to it? You're not alone in thinking this way. The term "sustainable" has become a buzzword in the fashion industry, but it’s often unclear what it involves. In this article, we'll break down the meaning of sustainability in fashion so you can understand exactly what to look for when shopping.

What does the word "sustainable" mean?

At its core, "sustainable" refers to practices that can be maintained over the long term without depleting resources or harming the environment. It’s about meeting our current needs without compromising the ability of future generations to meet theirs. This concept applies across various industries, including agriculture, energy, and, of course, fashion.

How did sustainability become so prominent in fashion?

The rise of sustainability in fashion can be traced back to growing environmental awareness and the demand for more ethical production methods. As the fashion industry expanded, so did its environmental footprint, leading to concerns about waste, pollution, and exploitation. Over the last few decades, movements advocating for better labour practices and environmental responsibility gained traction, pushing the industry to rethink its approach. Major incidents, such as the Rana Plaza factory collapse in 2013, further highlighted the urgent need for change, propelling sustainability into the spotlight.

What does "sustainable" mean in fashion?

When it comes to fashion, sustainability encompasses a broad range of practices. Here are ten key aspects that define what sustainable means in this context:

1. Ethical Labor Practices: Ensuring that workers are paid fair wages and operate in safe, humane conditions. Sustainable fashion brands are committed to transparency and often work closely with their supply chains to maintain high labour standards.
2. Environmentally Friendly Materials: Using materials that have a lower environmental impact, such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, or biodegradable fabrics. These materials require fewer resources, such as water and energy, and result in less pollution.
3. Reducing Waste: Minimising waste during production and promoting circular fashion. This includes designing clothes that produce minimal waste, recycling materials, and encouraging consumers to repair or repurpose garments instead of discarding them.
4. Low Carbon Footprint: Reducing greenhouse gas emissions throughout the production process. This involves using renewable energy sources, optimizing transportation logistics, and supporting carbon offset initiatives.
5. Water Conservation: Implementing practices that reduce water usage in the production of textiles. Sustainable brands often use water-efficient dyeing processes and support water conservation efforts in regions where their materials are sourced.
6. Non-Toxic Dyes and Chemicals: Avoiding harmful chemicals in the production process that can pollute water supplies and harm ecosystems. Sustainable fashion uses non-toxic, natural dyes and eco-friendly treatment processes.
7. Animal Welfare: Ensuring that animals are treated humanely and avoiding materials that involve animal cruelty. This includes choosing alternatives to fur, leather, and other animal-derived materials.
8. Longevity and Durability: Designing clothing that is made to last, both in terms of quality and style. Sustainable fashion focuses on creating timeless pieces that won’t go out of fashion quickly, encouraging consumers to buy less and wear more.
9. Transparency and Traceability: Providing clear information about the supply chain and production processes. Truly sustainable brands are transparent about where their materials come from and how their clothes are made.
10. Supporting Local Communities: Sourcing materials and manufacturing locally to reduce the environmental impact of transportation and support local economies. This can also mean collaborating with local artisans and preserving traditional crafts.

Why is sustainability important in fashion today?

Sustainability in fashion is more important now than ever due to the significant impact the industry has on the environment and society. The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world, contributing to water pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and landfill waste. By embracing sustainability, we can reduce these negative impacts and promote a more ethical and environmentally conscious way of producing and consuming fashion.

Moreover, consumers are increasingly aware of the environmental and social issues linked to fast fashion. They are demanding more from brands in terms of responsibility and ethics. Sustainable fashion offers a way to meet these demands while ensuring that future generations inherit a planet that is still habitable and resources that are still plentiful.

Understanding what "sustainable" means in fashion is key to making informed choices as a consumer. It goes beyond just using natural fabrics—it's about a holistic approach that considers the impact on the environment, workers, and society as a whole. By supporting sustainable fashion, we contribute to a healthier planet and a more ethical industry, ensuring that fashion can continue to inspire and delight for generations to come.