How To Change Your Habits

While clothes were once seen as a long-term investment, the consumerist society we live in now has created a culture of "fast fashion" - where we buy cheap garments for short-term use before replacing them with the next trending item that's marketed at us. The result? A disastrous impact on our environment that, as it stands, shows no sign of easing up. According to Greenpeace, the average person buys 60% more items of clothing and keeps them for about half as long as 15 years ago. Because of this mindset amongst shoppers, the fashion industry is thriving. Clothing production doubled from 2000 to 2014 and while in 2002 clothing sales amounted to $1 trillion dollars, that's projected to rise to $2.1 trillion by 2025, according to the environmental charity.

The message is clear: fast fashion is harming the environment on a global level, but what can we do to make our own individual wardrobes and shopping habits more ethical and sustainable?

1. Extend the life of your clothing

Try to find ways to keep your clothes away from the bins. Upcycle them by turning garments into new ones, eg. pants to bags or dresses into shirts etc. You can even donate them or sell them, if you want to earn some money back.

2. Shop smarter

Make sure to buy clothing that's been made with sustainable materials. This way they last for a longer amount of time.

3. Don't throw clothes away

Avoid throwing clothes away as it creates a huge amount of waste and is detrimental to the earth. If you need to, research around your area for textile banks, where they can repurpose your old clothes.

4. Consume less

The main problem is us, we buy way too much. Avoid buying clothes that you won't get a let of wear out of and will end up just sitting in the back of your closet. At the end of the day you won't be missing much plus you've saved up money for something more sustainable.