Dozens of systemic climate and environmental issues have come to light in the past few decades, such as water scarcity, plastic pollution, global warming, deforestation, loss of biodiversity and coral reefs, to name just a few, and the fashion industry is a major contributor.

Many blame so-called “fast fashion” brands, which focus on low cost, high trend (and high turnover as the trend fades) as the source of the biggest problems within the industry.  As landfills proliferate with apparel waste the planet is becoming literally buried in old, obsolete apparel.

So, what’s the answer?

In the face of the destruction caused by fast fashion, sustainable fashion brands have emerged as one possible answer to these issues by offering alternative fashion choices that reduce environmental impact through ethical practices.

Here are some of the key benefits of sustainable fashion and why you should choose more sustainable brands:

Reduced Consumption of Natural Resources

Fast fashion is draining the world’s natural resources at an astonishing pace with dire consequences for the future. According to statistics, an estimated 79 billion cubic meters of freshwater is consumed every year to keep up with the demands of fast fashion, from growing the raw materials to producing the clothing and accessories. Other resources that are being used in huge amounts include oil, fertilizers, and an endless list of various chemicals needed in the dying and weaving processes.

Sustainable fashion brands mostly use recycled fibers to reduce the consumption of virgin resources and provide a solution to the growing issue of waste management. Sustainable brands also use organic cotton instead of conventional cotton, which reduces water consumption significantly!

Smaller Carbon Footprint

The global fashion industry is responsible for a large percentage of the total greenhouse emissions each year. It’s also largely responsible for the growing landfills, with an estimated 85% of all clothing consumed by the people in the United States sent to landfills as solid waste. Not to mention the chemical runoffs from the dyeing and production process and the microplastics from synthetic fabrics that are polluting the world’s oceans a shocking rate.

Sustainable fashion brands mostly use recycled fabrics or materials from natural fabrics that require less or no chemicals to produce, and no pesticides or fertilizers to grow. They utilize a large percentage of waste fabric that’s responsible for overfilling the landfills, thereby reducing the number of wasted resources. Sustainable fabrics such as organic cotton, hemp, and linen are also biodegradable and don’t end up polluting the planet.

Healthier for Labor and Consumers

Fast fashion clothing often undergoes long and extensive chemical processes before they end up in the hands of consumers. According to a study, around 8,000 various synthetic chemicals are used to bleach, dye, and wet process garments produced by the fast fashion brands. Many of these chemicals can have adverse reactions when they come into contact with human skin and can be dangerous for both the labor working to produce the clothing and the people who wear those garments. The skin absorbs these chemicals and leads to various dermatological and respiratory issues.

Sustainable garments are made with organic materials that are healthier and safer for the people.

Shop with a Leading Sustainable Lifestyle Brand

If you are looking for more sustainable fashion brands, shop with Equal Hands. As one of the leading ecologically sustainable fashion brands, Equal Hands offers unique and fashionable pieces that have been designed to be both stylish and comfortable. From upcycled eco-friendly women's clothing to handmade ethical sustainable jewelry, Equal Hands offers an ecologically sustainable lifestyle that will benefit you and the planet.