Defining Sustainability

Words by Nada Abdelrahim Visuals by Felton Kizer Model Featured: Chelsey Carterwearing Alex Carter

Reducing the fashion industry’s ecological footprint is a twofold process. While it’s up to the consumer to change their attitude when they shop for clothes, companies must also commit to more ethical modes of production.

A dictionary search will define “sustainability” as the avoidance of the overuse of resources to maintain ecological balance. So, what does it mean for fashion to be sustainable? Sustainability in fashion means considering the way clothing is produced so as not to overuse the Earth’s resources, while also changing our attitudes and behaviors about consumption. This definition—developed by Green Strategy, a consulting firm that develops and advances the sustainability and circularity for fashion and textile companies—identifies the ideal process as it relates to understanding our role as consumers within the fashion industry.

Slow Factory founder and fashion activist Celine Semaan points out, “sustainability is a spectrum, and doing less damage is still doing some damage.” It is important to acknowledge that we live in a capitalist society; as fashion sustainability gains traction and clout, the movement becomes another marketing objective for the capitalist agenda. As such, this movement toward a more sustainable fashion industry is only focused on one part of the problem. The encouragement to consume lingers, perpetuating what Semaan calls the “disposable culture” that drives environmental destruction. It is important to first understand that sustainability is a lifestyle. It is not solely about cleaner production, but the reduction of consumption.

Fashion companies have a responsibility to move toward a more sustainable and ethical mode of production as a way to reduce their footprint. Their impact is not limited only to production, however, because even they can influence the consumption patterns of their consumers. The availability of secondhand fashion in stores and rental systems can satisfy the needs of the fashionably conscious while allow companies to do right by the Earth. If companies want to manufacture new items, their production should be limited to natural and recyclable textiles.

These biodegradable materials are less destructive to produce and, if disposed of properly, able to return to the Earth.

The movement toward sustainable fashion practices requires that we as consumers look within ourselves and commit to changing the way we think about our fashion identity. This intimate relationship with our bodies, and what we choose to cover them with, deserves more than just a fleeting thought. Production of clothing and accessories has exceeded our actual need, a byproduct of overconsumption. Instead of purchasing a piece thoughtlessly, consider its life-cycle, how long you intend to use it for, and how you will eventually dispose of it.

We can also help to reduce an item’s footprint in the way we have it laundered: washing clothes in low temperatures and hang-drying can extend their life-cycles. Cleaning separate stains by hand or airing clothes instead of washing the entire garment. Using eco-friendly washing powder in small amounts. These are just some of the steps we can take to become more conscious consumers, increase the longevity of our clothes, and ideally reduce the amount of clothes that end up in landfills.

As Semaan says, “[sustainability] is a cultural movement based on the way [we] consume.” If you care how your consumption of fashion is affecting the planet, become informed. Use knowledge as a tool to define what “more sustainable” means to you and then change your life, slowly but impactfully.

“This intimate relationship with our bodies, and what we choose to cover them with, deserves more than just a fleeting thought.”