Examining the Fashion Industry's Carbon Footprint
Intro
The fashion industry has an undeniable impact on our planet. From the fibers used in clothing to the air pollution produced during manufacturing, each step in the lifecycle of fashion contributes to a growing carbon footprint. As consumers, we often overlook the environmental consequences of our choices, but as awareness grows, so does the urgency to shift towards more sustainable practices. Understanding how our clothing choices affect the environment opens a pathway toward a more conscious approach to fashion.
Research Overview
Summary of Key Findings
This investigation reveals that the fashion sector is responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions. Even more troubling is the fact that this number is rising, driven by fast fashion trends and a consumer culture that prioritizes speed over sustainability. Key insights indicate that natural fibers, while often perceived as more eco-friendly, can still have significant environmental repercussions depending on their production methods. Conversely, synthetic fibers like polyester, though touted for their durability, shed microplastics that contribute to ocean pollution.
Importance of the Research in its Respective Field
The urgency of the research stems from the reality that environmental degradation cannot be overlooked any longer. By synthesizing data from various studies, this article aims to provide clarity on the complex interplay between fashion practices and ecological consequences. Education around this topic is vital for shaping consumer behavior and influencing industry standards,
Methodology
Description of the Analytical Methods Used
To grasp the scale of the carbon footprint within the fashion industry, a combination of quantitative and qualitative research methods was employed. Data on carbon emissions were gathered from industry reports, environmental studies, and case analyses of various brands. This information was then correlated with consumer behavior data, including purchase patterns and material preferences, through surveys and focus group discussions.
Sampling Criteria and Data Collection Techniques
The data collection focused on major fashion markets, including the United States, Europe, and Asia, showcasing diverse consumer habits. Sampling included interviews with sustainable fashion advocates, surveys targeting frequent shoppers, and analysis of brands committed to sustainability. This multi-faceted approach allowed for a more comprehensive understanding of the current landscape and potential pathways for change.
"The only way to change our future is to educate ourselves on the impact of today’s choices."
The Role of Consumer Behavior
Understanding how consumer decisions influence the fashion industry's carbon footprint is essential. When choosing clothing, many buyers are swayed by trends and pricing rather than durability or ethical considerations. The rush to acquire the latest styles often translates to purchasing clothing that is worn only a handful of times.
These behaviors are not merely individual choices but reflect a broader culture of consumption. People have the power to shift the narrative by selecting more sustainable options, raising awareness of the environmental costs, and supporting brands that prioritize ethical practices.
The End
The path to a more sustainable fashion industry will require collaboration between consumers, manufacturers, and policymakers. It is clear that to mitigate the environmental impact of fashion, a collective effort is needed. By holding the industry accountable and making informed choices as consumers, we can take significant strides toward ensuring a healthier planet.
Prelims to Fashion and Environmental Sustainability
Fashion is more than just the clothes we wear; it shapes cultural identities, drives economic activity, and holds significant sway over environmental sustainability. As the world becomes more interconnected, the consequences of our choices in fashion impact the globe in ways we might not immediately see. The fashion industry is a substantial contributor to carbon emissions, with its reverberations felt across ecosystems and communities alike.
Understanding the importance of fashion’s environmental impact is essential. It sheds light on how our clothing choices, from the fabrics selected to the brands we support, can either harm or help the planet. As the consumer demand for trends skyrockets, so does the pressure on manufacturers to keep up, often at the expense of the environment. This dynamic creates a pressing need to explore sustainable practices that can lead to a more responsible industry.
By delving into the intricacies of the carbon footprint tied to fashion, we gain insights into not only the challenges but also the solutions that can stem from mindful consumption and innovative practices. The benefits of bringing attention to this topic are manifold:
- Awareness Creation: Understanding how the fashion industry operates and its carbon implications helps consumers make more informed decisions.
- Empowerment: By becoming aware of their choices, consumers can advocate for brands that prioritize sustainability.
- Innovation: Identifying problems leads to the development of new materials and production methods that lessen environmental impacts.
- Collective Action: When consumers unite around sustainability, they can drive change in industry practices, encouraging brands to adopt more eco-friendly approaches.
In summary, emphasizing the intersection of fashion and sustainability allows us to envision a future where style does not come at the expense of our planet. As this article unfolds, it will explore the various facets of the fashion carbon footprint, from raw materials to disposal. As we engage with these topics, let us consider how we, as consumers and industry participants, can play a crucial role in shaping a sustainable fashion future.
The Life Cycle of Fashion Products
Understanding the life cycle of fashion products is essential when we think about their carbon footprint. Each phase of a garment’s life, from the moment it’s just a twinkle in a designer’s eye to the point at which it might reside in a landfill, contributes a piece to the puzzle of its overall environmental impact. Awareness of these stages can help us grasp not only the implications of our choices but also the potential solutions.
The life cycle can be broken down into several key areas, each laden with its own set of challenges and opportunities. Analyzing these facets allows for a better understanding of how emissions accumulate over time. This is not merely an academic exercise; it’s crucial for designers, manufacturers, consumers, and policy-makers alike as we navigate the difficult terrain of sustainable fashion.
Raw Materials and Resource Extraction
The first, and perhaps the most critical, step in the life cycle is the sourcing of raw materials. From cotton and wool to polyester and nylon, the process of obtaining these materials can vary dramatically in terms of environmental impact. For instance, cotton farming demands vast quantities of water — a resource that may be scarcer in some regions than the price of a hot cup of coffee.
Moreover, the extraction process itself can contribute rigorously to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Synthetic materials, though cheaper in some respects, often involve energy-intensive processes that release significant amounts of CO2.
- Natural fabrics, while generally more eco-friendly, come with their own challenges, like pesticide use and the strain on local ecosystems.
Awareness in material sourcing can lead to more sustainable choices — something that may seem small but can yield substantial benefits for the planet over the long term.
Manufacturing Processes and Their Emissions
The manufacturing phase is another significant contributor to the carbon footprint of fashion. In the rush to churn out new styles, many brands tend to overlook the environmental costs associated with manufacturing, including energy consumption, waste, and emissions. It takes a considerable amount of energy to turn raw materials into finished garments, and much of this energy is derived from fossil fuels, which means bigger emissions claims.
- Heavy machinery operates day and night, spitting out smoke while producing textiles.
- Chemical treatments for colors and finishes often involve harmful substances that further exacerbate pollution.
Understanding these processes is essential for pushing forward innovations that minimize carbon outputs, optimize energy consumption, and adopt cleaner technologies.
Transportation and Distribution Logistics
Once products are manufactured, they embark on a journey that often spans the globe. The carbon emissions related to transportation cannot be understated. A shirt that’s made in Bangladesh, travels by ship to a distribution center in Europe, and then gets trucked to a retailer in the U.S. presents a classic case of the environmental cost associated with long-distance shipping.
Consider these points:
- Air freight contributes much more to greenhouse gas emissions compared to sea freight.
- Optimizing logistics can involve choosing eco-friendly carriers or utilizing more efficient routes, reducing the overall carbon footprint of distribution.
Retail Practices and Their Footprint
Retail practices are not merely about selling products but also understanding their implications for sustainability. The physical location of shops, the materials used for that seasonal display, and how energy is consumed all factor into the overall carbon footprint. Techniques like employing renewable energy sources can make a noticeable difference.
- In-store promotions often involve materials that are discarded shortly after such as plastic banners.
- Inventory management, if not optimized, can lead to overproduction and waste, further escalating emissions.
Retailers have an obligation — though perhaps not a legal one — to reconsider their operational impacts.
Use and Maintenance of Fashion Items
Once consumers buy a garment, another layer of carbon footprint unfolds involving its use and maintenance. Washing, ironing, and drying not only consume resources but can also generate microplastics that seep into our waterways each time we clean synthetic fabrics.
Engaging consumers about best practices can create ripples of sustainable behavior:
- Washing clothes in cold water saves energy.
- Air drying instead of using a dryer preserves fabric longevity and saves electricity.
End-of-Life and Disposal Challenges
Finally, the end-of-life phase of fashion items brings its own set of challenges. Many garments find themselves in landfills where they can take decades to decompose. The environmental cost doesn’t stop once the consumer is finished with the item; it often escalates through processes like incineration or ineffective recycling methods.
- Landfill sites can produce methane, a potent greenhouse gas, leading to further environmental degradation.
- Recycling initiatives often lack the infrastructure needed to properly handle mixed materials found in many fashion items.
Highlighting efficient disposal methods and encouraging responsible consumer habits could herald substantial improvements.
The transition toward a low-carbon fashion economy hinges not only on corporate responsibility but also on consumer awareness and proactive measures at each stage of a garment's life cycle.
The Impact of Material Choices
The choices of materials in fashion play a crucial role in defining the industry's overall environmental footprint. This section delves into how the selection between natural and synthetic fabrics alters not just the ecological impact, but also consumer perceptions and brand responsibilities. Understanding these dynamics serves as a springboard for implementing more sustainable practices, reconciling conflicting interests of fashion and environmental preservation while pointing to innovative pathways for the future.
Natural vs. Synthetic Fabrics
Fabrics can be broadly classified into two categories: natural and synthetic. Natural fabrics, like cotton and hemp, are derived from plants and animals, whereas synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, are produced from petrochemicals. The distinction here matters greatly when evaluating environmental implications.
Natural fabrics often have that soft touch and breathable quality that many consumers love. However, they are not devoid of negative impacts; conventional cotton farming, for instance, is notorious for heavy pesticide usage and substantial water consumption. While organic cotton mitigates some of these issues, the balance is delicate.
On the other hand, synthetic fabrics, although generally more durable and low-maintenance, come with their own set of problems. The production process is energy-intensive, generating significant greenhouse gases. Plus, microplastics released during washing can seep into waterways, with dire consequences for marine life. Does this mean one is categorically better than the other? Not quite; it’s all about the context and the actual application in fashion.
"Every fabric tells a story; the challenge is to make sure it’s a story worth sharing."
In considering sustainable practices, brands are finding ways to bridge this gap. Innovations in modifying natural fibers or creating bio-synthetic options are being explored. The fabric-making realm is vast, and choosing wisely not only enhances the longevity of garments but also beckons a future where fashion and sustainability thrive in harmony.
Innovations in Sustainable Fabrics
As the necessity for eco-friendly solutions becomes vital, innovative approaches to fabric development are burgeoning. Companies are rolling up their sleeves, adopting ingenious ways to create textiles that not only look good but can stand the test of sustainability
One prominent approach involves the creation of fabrics from recycled materials. For instance, several brands have started turning plastic bottles into polyester. This process curbs the amount of waste that ends up in landfills and ocean while simultaneously reducing reliance on virgin resources. Additionally, there’s a rise in the use of plant-based alternatives, like Tencel, made from sustainably sourced trees, which utilize a closed-loop process that minimizes water pollution and waste.
Another exciting development is the exploration of lab-grown materials, such as bioengineered leather, cultivated from microbial fermentation. This approach not only offers a cruelty-free alternative but also presents vast possibilities for scalability while reducing carbon emissions associated with traditional leather production.
The path toward sustainable fashion is paved with such innovations. They are re-defining what it means to produce clothing and urging consumers to rethink their purchasing decisions based on the entire lifecycle of fabrics. Consumers today increasingly seek transparency, so brands that adopt such sustainable practices create a unique competitive edge.
In summary, the impact of material choices in fashion extends well beyond aesthetic appeal. It encapsulates a fundamental inquiry about how fashion operates in relation to its environmental consequences. As we navigate this changing landscape, it becomes crucial to embrace innovative materials that might steer the industry toward much-needed sustainability.
Consumer Behavior and Its Role
Consumer behavior is a vital piece of the puzzle when discussing the carbon footprint of the fashion industry. It informs not only how and what people choose to buy, but also what companies produce. The interplay between consumers’ choices and the industry’s responses can significantly shape the environmental landscape. The significance lies in understanding that with each purchase, individuals cast a vote for sustainability or its opposite, fast fashion. This encourages consideration of the broader implications of these choices on the planet.
Fast Fashion and Its Consequences
Fast fashion is a term that encapsulates the rapid production cycles of inexpensive clothing designed to capture current trends. This phenomenon often leads to excessive waste, as consumers frequently discard items after only a few wears. The production of such garments is a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.
Some consequences include:
- Environmental degradation: The sheer volume of clothing produced drains resources like water and energy, while facilitating pollution through waste and chemical runoff.
- Labor exploitation: Fast fashion also frequently relies on cheap labor in developing countries, where working conditions are often perilous. This adds a layer of ethical concern to the consumption of these products.
Thus, the implications of fast fashion stretch beyond environmental aspects and into social responsibility. Customers, by choosing to purchase these garments, inadvertently endorse a system that prioritizes profit over planet and people.
Shifting Mindsets Toward Slow Fashion
A growing number of consumers are beginning to embrace the slow fashion movement. This philosophy advocates for purchasing less and valuing quality over quantity. Slow fashion emphasizes timeless design, ethical production, and sustainable materials.
There are several key points worth noting:
- Durability and longevity: Slow fashion is all about creating garments that last, reducing the constant cycle of consumption.
- Eco-conscious choices: Consumers are increasingly seeking out brands that prioritize sustainability, thus driving changes in the industry.
- Support for local economies: Purchasing from local artisans and brands fosters community growth and reduces carbon emissions caused by long-distance shipping.
Transitioning to this mindset requires a shift in priorities, but many find it leads to more fulfilling consumption habits.
The Role of Education in Consumer Choices
Education appears as a pivotal factor in influencing consumer behavior in fashion. An informed consumer is empowered to make choices that align with their values regarding sustainability.
Consider the following aspects:
- Awareness of fashion’s impact: Knowledge about the environmental and social consequences of fashion helps consumers understand the significance of their purchasing decisions.
- Critical thinking: Educational initiatives can bolster critical thinking about marketing tactics, allowing consumers to discern between brands that genuinely commit to sustainability and those that engage in greenwashing.
- Community engagement: Workshops and forums about sustainable fashion encourage collective learning and provide a platform for consumers to share insights and resources.
By broadening educational efforts around sustainability, consumers can become advocates for change, supporting brands that adhere to responsible practices.
"The true cost of fashion lies not in the price tag but in the environmental and social impact it creates. As consumers, we can choose to drive positive change."
Regulatory Framework and Industry Standards
The pressing need for a regulatory framework in the fashion industry cannot be overstated. As the sector grapples with its substantial carbon footprint, the establishment and enforcement of industry standards become vital in driving sustainable practices. Folk might think of regulations as merely rules to follow, but in reality, they serve as a roadmap—a guide to navigating the complex relationship between fashion production and environmental responsibility.
Crafting effective regulations entails a multi-faceted approach, addressing various aspects of the production process. These regulations help to limit emissions, promote transparency, and encourage the use of eco-friendly materials. They also pave the way for accountability, compelling brands to adopt more sustainable practices while providing consumers with the means to make informed purchases. A proactive regulatory environment fosters innovation and motivates businesses to rethink traditional models.
Moreover, systems of certification and standards offer brands a way to demonstrate their commitment to sustainability. Think sustainability labels or certifications—these are not just marketing gimmicks; they convey a message that resonates with an increasingly discerning consumer base.
Global Regulations Governing Fashion Production
Around the globe, numerous regulations are being put in place to address the environmental impact of fashion. For instance, the European Union (EU), often at the forefront of environmental legislation, has initiated several directives aimed at improving sustainability in textiles. One such initiative is the EU Green Deal, which aims to make Europe the first climate-neutral continent by 2050. This framework pushes fashion businesses to reduce their emissions and move toward a circular economy model.
Countries like Bangladesh, renowned for their textile production, have also begun putting policies in place to improve working conditions while addressing environmental concerns. International agreements, like the Paris Agreement, further emphasize the need for collaborative action among nations to tackle the climate crisis.
"In the fashion industry, regulations are not just about compliance; they reflect a growing demand from consumers for sustainable practices, thereby influencing market dynamics."
Non-Governmental Organizations and Their Influence
Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) have emerged as critical players in advocating for regulatory change within the fashion industry. Groups such as Fashion Revolution and Greenpeace actively campaign for more sustainable practices by raising public awareness about the environmental impacts of fashion.
NGOs often work hand-in-hand with governments and regulatory bodies, offering expertise and raising issues that may not receive attention in political discourse. They mobilize consumers through campaigns, urging them to consider the environmental and ethical stakes involved in their clothing purchases. Campaigns like #WhoMadeMyClothes challenge brands to be transparent about their production processes, ultimately influencing both consumer behavior and regulatory norms.
Additionally, NGOs can provide valuable research and data, highlighting the urgent need for regulatory frameworks. They serve as watchdogs, holding corporations accountable for their environmental footprints and advocating for policies that protect both people and the planet. This collaboration between NGOs, government entities, and the fashion industry itself creates an ecosystem where sustainability can flourish.
In summary, the interplay of regulations, industry standards, and non-governmental advocacy is critical in driving the fashion industry toward a more sustainable future. Understanding these dynamics will equip stakeholders—from consumers to policymakers—with the insights necessary to ignite impactful change.
Innovative Approaches to Reduce the Carbon Footprint
In the hunt for solutions to the staggering carbon footprint of the fashion industry, innovative approaches have emerged that not only aim to mitigate environmental impacts but also redefine consumption patterns and business models. The importance of adopting these methods is clear: they allow for a shift towards sustainability while maintaining the creativity and dynamism embodying the fashion world. Effective solutions blend technology, circular economy principles, and a shift in consumer consciousness, paving the way for a greener future.
Technology in Sustainable Fashion
Technology stands at the forefront of initiatives to lessen the environmental toll of fashion. With advancements in materials science, recycling processes, and production methods, companies are beginning to harness innovation for sustainability. For instance, developments in biodegradable fabrics and recycled materials offer a way to produce clothing that maintains high quality without jeopardizing the planet. These fabrics, made from organic sources or reclaimed fibers, not only reduce waste but also lower the energy consumption tied to raw material extraction.
Moreover, technology facilitates data transparency through supply chain management systems. By utilizing software platforms that track production, brands can better understand where emissions occur and implement necessary changes to reduce them. Imagine being able to trace a garment from its raw materials to your closet, ensuring every step is as eco-friendly as possible.
Another area to consider is digital fashion. With the rise of virtual clothing, brands are experimenting with designs that exist only in the digital realm. This method eliminates physical waste entirely, appealing especially to consumers who seek novelty without the attachment of traditional fashion consumption.
"Innovation is at the crossroads of style and sustainability, presenting a fresh canvas for eco-conscious creators and consumers alike."
Circular Fashion Models
Circular fashion is revolutionizing how we understand apparel lifecycle. Rather than the traditional linear model where clothes are made, worn, and disposed of, circular models emphasize longevity and reuse. These practices have significant implications for reducing carbon emissions.
Key components of circular fashion include:
- Design for Longevity: Products are crafted with high-quality materials that withstand the test of time, encouraging consumers not to replace items frequently.
- Repair and Upcycling: Brands are embracing repair services and upcycling initiatives, encouraging consumers to extend the life of their garments.
- Take-back Programs: Companies implement schemes to take back old clothing for recycling or refurbishing. This minimizes landfill waste and fosters a sense of responsibility towards the environment.
The benefits are manifold. By adopting circular strategies, brands can significantly lessen their carbon footprint while engaging consumers in sustainable practices. Furthermore, this shift bolsters brand loyalty, as modern customers gravitate towards companies investing in ethical and environmental concerns.
In summary, innovative approaches to reducing the fashion carbon footprint are not merely beneficial; they are imperative. As we navigate complexities within the fashion industry, integrating technology and circular models presents a clear path to ecologically responsible and economically viable solutions.
Future Perspectives on Sustainable Fashion
The landscape of fashion is shifting, and sustainable practices are no longer just a trend; they're rapidly becoming a necessity. Understanding future perspectives on sustainable fashion is crucial as it lays the groundwork for more extensive changes across the industry. Brands, consumers, and policymakers are increasingly recognizing the value of incorporating environmental considerations into their decision-making processes.
Investing in sustainability not only safeguards the planet but also enhances brand reputation and consumer loyalty. Shifting attitudes toward eco-friendly options could forge a collective of brands committed to making positive contributions to ecological well-being. As the awareness of fashion’s carbon footprint continues to grow, it's evident that sustainable fashion is not simply about reducing emissions; it encompasses a broader commitment to ethical production and consumption.
Consumer Trends and Shifts in Market Dynamics
As we navigate through this evolving landscape, consumer trends play a pivotal role in shaping market dynamics. The rise of socially conscious consumers is evident, where buyers now scrutinize their purchases beyond mere style and cost. The iconic quest for uniqueness has morphed into a search for ethical brands that prioritize sustainability.
Some patterns to consider include:
- Increased Demand for Transparency: Shoppers want to know where their clothes come from and the materials used. Brands that openly share their supply chain processes gain consumer trust.
- Rise of Second-Hand Shopping: More individuals are flocking to thrift stores and online resale platforms, recognizing the ecological benefits of pre-owned fashion.
- Eco-Friendly Innovations: Sustainable collections from brands are often met with eagerness and enthusiasm, as many consumers prefer to invest in products that contribute positively to the environment.
- Minimalism and Capsule Wardrobes: The shift towards minimalism is also notable, encouraging consumers to buy less and choose versatile pieces that last longer.
By harnessing these trends, brands can meet the evolving expectations of consumers and work towards a more sustainable future. However, it also necessitates a shift in market strategy, sourcing, and production methods to align with these new consumer values.
Role of Education in Promoting Sustainability
Education emerges as a cornerstone in the push for sustainable practices in fashion. Understanding the environmental impact of clothing production and cultivation fosters informed consumer choices.
To elevate awareness, consider the following:
- Curricula in Fashion Programs: Incorporating sustainability into fashion design courses teaches future designers the importance of eco-friendly practices.
- Workshops and Public Forums: Organizing educational events where experts discuss sustainability can be influential. Community involvement in these forums will further disseminate critical knowledge about sustainable choices.
- Online Platforms: Educational websites, blogs, and social media can highlight the importance of sustainability, making information more accessible to a broader audience.
Utilizing these educational avenues can demystify sustainable fashion, encouraging people to engage critically and think twice before making purchases. Ultimately, aligning consumer knowledge with sustainable practices will lead to more responsible consumption patterns, ensuring the industry progresses towards a more sustainable future.
The journey to a sustainable fashion future is collective, engaging all stakeholders in the industry—from manufacturers to consumers. All hands on deck are needed to foster transformation.
Closure and Call to Action
Tackling the carbon footprint of the fashion industry isn’t just a drop in the bucket; it’s an enterprise that can have waves of impact across our planet. When it comes down to it, every garment bought, worn, or discarded carries an unseen weight—a totality of environmental repercussions tied to materials, labor, and production methods. Acknowledging this footprint is critical, especially as global awareness of climate change continues to grow.
In this article, we've navigated through the ebbs and flows of fashion's relationship with the environment, unpacking key findings that demonstrate the pressing need for change. The distillation of these findings is essential for understanding our role as consumers in fostering a more sustainable future. By prioritizing choices that favor the environment, our collective beckoning can drive industries to innovate and adhere to sustainable practices.
This issue can feel quite overwhelming, yet it leads us to crucial considerations. Understanding the intricacies of our choices empowers individuals to be catalysts for transformation. When consumers demand change, industries must respond. What we choose to wear, how often we wear it, and ultimately, how we dispose of it contributes to the larger narrative of sustainability.
Summary of Key Findings
- Life Cycle Emissions: Each phase of a garment’s life—from the extraction of raw materials to end-of-life disposal—contributes significantly to greenhouse gas emissions.
- Material Matters: Choosing sustainable fabrics that require less water, energy, and chemicals can profoundly reduce the carbon footprint. For instance, organic cotton or recycled polyester stand out as better options.
- Consumer Awareness: Shifting consumer behavior from fast fashion to more sustainable fashion practices can potentially reverse negative environmental trends. The more informed the consumer, the more formidable their impact.
- Industry Innovation: There is a growing movement within the industry to embrace technology, recycling, and circular fashion models that reduce waste. Brands embracing these trends are setting a precedent.
- The manufacturing process, coupled with transport, especially by air, amplifies this impact over land transport.
Encouraging Sustainable Practices
Encouraging sustainable practices starts with knowledge—and knowledge empowers action. With information at their fingertips, consumers can:
- Consider second-hand clothing as a go-to option or even participate in swap meets.
- Support brands prioritizing environmental responsibility and transparency in their practices.
- Regularly maintain garments to extend their lifespan, reducing the frequency of replacements.
Additionally, educators and policymakers play a pivotal role in shaping a sustainable future. Initiatives focused on spreading awareness of the environmental impact of fashion, alongside community engagement, create a network of informed choices.
Moreover, advocating for policies that hold companies accountable can reshape industry standards. Engaging with NGOs working toward sustainable practices uplifts collective efforts in battling the fashion industry’s carbon footprint.
