Compiled by Sahar Yaghoubi
Behind the glamour and allure of the fashion industry lies a sobering reality – its devastating impact on the environment and the countless species that call our planet home. From the overgrazing of the Mongolian steppes to the contamination of our oceans, the production of many common clothing materials is exacting a heavy toll on wildlife and ecosystems across the globe.
The insatiable demand for cashmere, a luxurious fiber derived from the undercoat of goats, has driven a three-fold increase in their population in Mongolia since the 1990s. Overgrazing by these animals has led to the degradation of 80% of the country’s grasslands, threatening the survival of iconic species such as snow leopards, corsac foxes, and bobak marmots.
Synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and acrylic pose a different but equally grave threat. When washed, these materials release millions of microscopic plastic fibers into waterways, ultimately finding their way into the oceans. These fibers, laced with toxic chemicals, are ingested by a wide array of marine life, from crabs and lobsters to turtles and seals, leading to digestive blockages, tissue damage, and starvation.
Deforestation is another casualty of the fashion industry’s relentless pursuit of raw materials. Dissolving pulp, the base material for viscose and rayon, is often sourced from endangered or ancient forests, contributing to habitat destruction and the displacement of countless species. Currently, over 150 million trees are logged annually to produce clothing, exacerbating the already dire effects of climate change.
Even natural fibers like cotton, often perceived as a more sustainable option, come with their own set of environmental costs. Cotton cultivation is a water-intensive process, with a single t-shirt requiring up to 2,700 liters of water to produce. Additionally, the excessive use of pesticides and hazardous chemicals in cotton farming pollutes waterways and soil, further threatening biodiversity.
The rise of fast fashion, characterized by rapidly changing trends and disposable clothing, has only exacerbated the problem. The constant production of new garments, often made from synthetic and non-biodegradable materials, contributes to a staggering carbon footprint and an alarming influx of pollution into our environment.
The consequences of our fashion choices extend far beyond the confines of our closets, impacting ecosystems and species across the globe. As consumers, we hold the power to drive change by making more conscious and sustainable choices. By embracing practices such as repairing and swapping clothing, seeking out sustainable brands, and prioritizing quality over quantity, we can collectively reduce the industry’s environmental footprint and protect the delicate balance of nature.
