Delayed Arrival in Fashion: A Potential Environmental Mishap - Discussing Fashion Industry and Carbon Emissions (Part 1)

In an effort to combat climate change, the fashion industry is taking significant strides towards achieving net-zero carbon emissions. This ambitious goal involves not only reducing carbon emissions but also offsetting more carbon than is emitted, a concept known as Carbon Negative.

Fast fashion, with its rapid production and disposal of clothing, has been a source of concern for environmental activists. The large amounts of clothing that end up in landfills and oceans, coupled with the production of methane gas from certain fabrics, have raised alarm bells.

To reach this ambitious goal, the fashion industry has identified three major steps: Carbon Neutrality, Carbon Positive, and Carbon Negative. Carbon Neutrality is achieved by balancing emissions with absorptions, such as through purchasing carbon offsets or projects that encourage lowering carbon emissions. Carbon Positivity, on the other hand, involves using sustainable resources and carbon offsets to generate more carbon absorption than emission. The ultimate goal is Carbon Negative, where more carbon is absorbed than emitted, a feat achieved by brands like No Nasties, which focus on sustainable and renewable garments and projects that lower carbon emissions.

Several sustainability and carbon emission trackers are now available to help fashion brands monitor their carbon footprint. These tools provide valuable insights, enabling brands to make informed decisions and implement necessary changes.

Microfiber, a leading cause of oceanic pollution, has also been a focus of concern. Synthetic-based clothes are known to shed tiny plastic fibers, contributing to the pollution of our oceans.

The fashion industry is responsible for about 10% of total global emissions. In response to this, the Paris Climate Change Agreement was drawn up in 2015, with 196 states as signatories. The agreement aims to limit global warming to well below 2°C, preferably to 1.5°C, above pre-industrial levels.

The Fashion Industry Charter, first launched at COP24 Poland in 2018 and renewed at the latest COP26 UK in 2021, emphasizes systematic changes in the existing fashion industry structure. The charter prioritizes adopting sustainable low carbon solutions and acknowledges that current industry standards are not enough for the goals to be met. The revised charter encourages deeper industry changes, with big businesses at the forefront for adopting sustainable fashion practices.

Brands like Allbirds are already promoting Carbon Positivity by using sustainable resources and carbon offsets to generate more carbon absorption than emission. Some brands even print carbon counts on their labels, providing transparency and encouraging consumers to make more conscious choices.

However, as of now, there is no specific company in the fashion industry known for implementing a carbon-negative approach to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. The discussion around sustainability and carbon neutrality in various sectors suggests that companies prioritizing green practices and reducing emissions could be leaders in this area.

The dyeing process of clothing is another major water pollutant. A majority of the dye does not bind with the fabric and ends up lost in the waste, which is then disposed of into major water bodies. As the fashion industry continues its journey towards sustainability, addressing issues like this will be crucial.

The Paris Agreement works in a 5-year cycle, requiring associated countries to make changes that promote sustainable living standards. As the fashion industry strives to meet its net-zero carbon emissions goal, it is clear that this is just the beginning of a long and challenging journey. But with commitment, collaboration, and innovation, it is a journey that the industry is ready to embark on.

Delayed Arrival in Fashion: A Potential Environmental Mishap - Discussing Fashion Industry and Carbon Emissions (Part 1)