Hello! I want to share with you a topic that deserves our attention. Today we witness and see the negative effects that the depletion of our natural resources and the serious consequences of climate change have caused in Peru and the world. In addition, who could believe that the industrial impact of fashion on the environment could be so significant, if its resources are not used properly? After reading the following post, you will know that a garment can change the planet.
I have loved fashion since I felt alpaca fiber for the first time. My mom struggled to dress me because we lived in a very remote province and it was very difficult to get around to buy clothing. Some clothes itched, others didn’t fit or gave me allergy. Thus, when I was six years old, my mother left her job to take care of her herd and started making my first clothes with alpaca fiber. From that moment, I can assure you that when you feel 100% natural fiber on your skin, you will not want to feel any other fibers. That is how I discovered my passion for sustainable fashion and my intention to take care of our planet.
It is important to know that sustainable fashion was born in order to educate the consumer about the environmental, economic and social care of this industry worldwide. In order for a garment to be sustainable, the entire manufacturing process must respect the environment and must be made of 100% natural organic fibers and dyes. Among the positive characteristics that stand out, we can say that these materials are not harmful to our health as they are free of chemicals and toxins. And in addition, sustainable fashion is made to last. It can be recycled, focused on re-using the original material or donating it.
Traveling, getting to know Peru and other countries, chatting with artisans and seamstresses taught me that “extra” to become aware of the perverse condition behind the textile industry. It is today considered the second most polluting industry of the world, after the oil industry. When I explain this topic to someone, they look at me with a strange face, but it doesn’t surprise me, since most of us have grown up wearing garments ignoring their origin. Accessibility of price and clothing, following fashions of public figures and the omission of the subject itself, are some of the reasons that make this industry a pioneer for millions of people around the world.
Currently, this textile industry is made of synthetic fibers like nylon, elastane, polyester, etc. Do you know how many years it takes for polyester to decompose? 200 years. Confirmed data assures that to manufacture a pair of blouses they use between 10,000 and 17,000 liters of water to grow, process and dye cotton. OH, MY GOD! 20% of the toxic discharges that reach the sea come from the textile industry and what is worse, do you know where these garments end when their premature life is over? Eighty percent end up in the landfill. The carelessness of the human being has managed to turn clothes into garbage, but this should not be. Sustainable fashion is here to stay and today many businessmen unite against the anti-ecological footprint.
So, the big question has to be asked, what can we do to consume in a responsible way? If you want to be part of this change I leave you 3 options to contribute your share. First, read the labels to know that the raw materials are sustainable (alpaca fiber, cotton, linen, etc.). A plus is to see if they have certifications that indicate that they are toxic-free. Second, before you buy, ask yourself the question, do I really need it? Avoid compulsive shopping. Third, when you dispose of a garment, do it in a responsibly way, either by donating it, recycling it or use it for some other purpose.
They say that clothing is the skin we choose. As you will see, I continue to learn and walk this path towards sustainability. I hope that this information has served you to share it with others and apply it in your life. Remember that “low cost” fashion ends up causing a higher cost for the environment.
