Apr 27, 2023

A Consumer's Guide to Sustainable Fashion: Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, Repurpose

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As consumers, we have the power to reduce the negative impacts of the fashion industry on the environment. To achieve this, we need to adopt the Refuse, Reduce, Reuse, Recycle, and Repurpose practice. Here are some tips to get started:

Refuse

Refusing to buy clothing that has unsustainable materials or is made with unethical practices reduces your impact on the environment. Fast fashion contributes to textile waste and pollution, so choosing not to purchase such items will send a message to the fashion industry. Supporting ethical fashion brands by refusing to support unethical labor practices can also promote the growth of sustainable fashion.

Be a conscious buyer, choose sustainable fashion

Source: The Washington Post [1]

Reduce

One of the most effective ways to reduce your environmental impact is to spend less. Instead of constantly buying new clothes, consider purchasing fewer items of higher quality that last longer or renting. Also, resist the urge to buy into fast fashion trends that change every season. Instead, look for timeless pieces that can be worn for years to come [1].

Invest in Quality, Use Clothes for the Long Run

Source: The Guardian [2]

Reuse

As a way to reuse clothes, thrifting is an excellent way to extend clothes' life and reduce textile waste9. When you shop at a thrift store, you're giving clothes a second chance at life while supporting your local economy. Additionally, try to wear your clothes for longer periods before discarding them. If your clothes are still in good condition, donating is also a good way to prolong their life span. Mend the clothes if they are torn or have holes with a few simple stitches or use them as a cleaning cloth if they are worn out [2].

Giving new life to old clothes - stitching up holes

Source: The Washington Post [1]

Recycle

Your local recycling program may accept textiles if you want to recycle old clothing items [3]. To ensure that your items can be properly recycled, many programs have specific instructions on how to prepare them for recycling. There may be programs that do not accept textiles, but there may also be clothing recycling programs run by specific brands or textile recycling organizations. Taking part in clothing recycling programs can help reduce textile waste and encourage a more sustainable fashion.

Recycling old clothes to reduce textile waste

Source: BBC [4]

Repurpose

If you have clothes you no longer wear, consider reworking them instead of throwing them away [5]. You can create new and unique clothes by reusing materials. This is a great way to express your style and reduce the environmental impact of fashion. There are many creative ways to up-cycle clothes, such as an old dress you no longer wear into a skirt and crop top set, or a pair of jeans that can be cut off and made into shorts.