Week three formative assessment
Fashion, is more than a showcase of style and culture, its also the key to driving socio-economic and environmental transformations, especially in terms of circular economy and sustainability. As the fashion industry becomes more and more aware of its environmental responsibilities, these concepts are becoming integral pillars for future innovations and business models.
A circular economy deviates from the traditional linear model of “take, make, dispose”. Instead, the circular economy focuses on creating products designed for durability, reuse, and recycling. To keep resources in use for as long as possible, and extracting maximum value from them during their lifecycle to eventually regenerate materials at the end. In the context of fashion, this would mean designing clothes that last longer, are made from sustainable materials, can be easily recycled or upcycled, and create minimal waste.
Sustainability in fashion encompasses a broad spectrum of practices which aim to reduce the negative impacts of the industry to protect our environment and society. To accomplish this goal, it means using eco-friendly materials, reducing water consumption, avoiding harmful dyes, and ensuring ethical labor practices. Essentially, it seeks to balance the environmental, social, and economic imperatives.
One of the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) by the United Nations that holds particular relevance to the fashion industry is SDG 12. Responsible Consumption and Production. A goal that aims to ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns, which touch upon aspects such as energy efficiency, reducing waste, and creating a sustainable infrastructure that provides access to basic services such as green and decent paying jobs. Being one of the largest industries to exist globally, the fashion industry has a significant role to play in achieving this SDG. Due to their vast resource consumption, waste production and massive supply chains, the fashion industry is a significant drive of the problem. By adopting sustainable practices, fashion brands can ensure responsible consumption patterns, minimize wastage, reduce environmental degradation, and contribute positively to the socio-economic fabric.
In conclusion, the fashion industry stands at a crossroads. With the rising awareness of the damage caused by fast fashion and unsustainable practices, there is an imminent need to integrate the principles of a circular economy and sustainability. Aligning with global agendas like the UN’s SDGs further cements the industry’s commitment to a better, greener, and more equitable future. The pillar of sustainable fashion is no longer just a trendy term but a necessity and responsibility for a more harmonious world.