Freelance writer Eve Stein shares her thoughts on recycling, fashion...and saving money...
We all know how important
it is to recycle. Recycling is one of the most significant ways that
individuals can have a positive impact on our society and help ensure
the survival of the world that we live in.
In many countries it's mandatory to
separate our trash appropriately and think
about the sustainability of the production of the food products that
we buy.
But it's less usual to consider sustainability when we get
dressed in the morning or when we hit the stores to purchase the latest
fashions. The great news is, you can be fashionable
and help the environment at the same time...
Sustainable Fashion
And, far from dowdy and the stigma of 'second-hand' trendsetters globally are now wise to the truth. Sustainable fashions are now just
as trend led and innovative as their unsustainable counterparts, but with much less impact on the environment.
Sustainable products are
usually produced using sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton,
organic wool, and even recycled polyester. These fabrics are created in
the most environmentally friendly methods possible,
using sustainable farming and manufacturing practices.
Organic wool is
made without the use of toxic sheep dips, while organic cottons are free
from synthetic dyes and chlorine based bleaches.
So sustainable
and unsustainable garments could look identical but that the
sustainable garment would have a lower impact on the environment.
Good for People
Sustainable fashion options are also much better and kinder to
the people that manufacture them. Fashions produced under
the fair trade label are produced with more than simply bottom line in
mind; so that the company’s manufacturing them general care more
for the wellbeing of the people making their
products.
Sustainable production methods, such as the lack of harsh
chemicals used, have fewer health impacts on textile workers. Any company
making textiles under the fair trade act umbrella in the US and other places should pay a living wage to workers. So their health and standard of living are better.
So when you choose to buy sustainably you’re
helping the environment and the people who really
need that support too.
Think Outside The Box
If you don’t like the idea of purchasing new clothes because of the impact that the manufacturing methods of
even the most sustainable fashion brands, think about purchasing vintage and second hand clothes.
Shopping at second hand shops and specialist
vintage fashion stores will all ensure you have a carbon neutral and
completely sustainable shopping experience.
The planet has a finite
number of resources, and reusing those by buying second hand is one way to lessen resource depletion.
Some fantastic second hand fashion options are available; just
because the garment you’re looking for has served its purpose for
someone else doesn’t mean it’s not in incredible condition and won’t
look amazing on you.
Vintage fashions are also very
in vogue this season, so it's easy to create your own
distinctive style and look fashionable while minimising environmental impact. Purchasing vintage clothes will save you money, as vintage and second hand clothes tend to be much more inexpensive. You'll may be amazed by the savings you
make and the positive impact this has on your bank balance.
Thinking
green when it comes to your fashion choices really doesn’t have to mean
giving up being fashion forward
and trend led. Put your best foot forward and show off your
fashion credentials in the latest sustainable fashion offerings? Buy second hand...and help save the planet!
The views expressed are those of the writer.