Unethical consumerism under fast fashion

Consumers tend to make habitual purchases to keep up with the latest fashion trends. Plus, with the help of quick clothing production, this has shown itself to be effortless. Fast fashion has a lot to help with that; from runways to stores in just hours. But with this comes tremendous consequences.

Fast fashion is cheap, low-priced, and trendy clothing sampled by many public influencers such as models or celebrities. These clothing pieces make it swiftly into stores to meet consumer demands. The goal is to sell popularized clothing as quickly as possible in stores while they are still trending for shoppers to purchase them. However, consumers are getting what they bargained for, low-quality attire.

The constant demand for production leads to many products made fast with cheap and harmful fabrics. Unfortunately, this causes harm to the environment and contributes to global warming and Earth pollution. One such material is polyester, which comes from fossil fuels. There are already enough

contributors to the harvesting of fossil fuels and the quick command for textile factories producing items isn’t helping. This fabric also sheds hard-to-see microfibers that make their way into the air, ocean, and wastewater system.

With microfibers infesting many of earth’s waterways, it is no surprise to see that animals are also affected by fast fashion. Both land and sea creatures have come into contact with numerous toxic dyes and chemicals used in clothing production. When some require materials like fur and leather, animal welfare is in a dangerous position. This is evident with the countless scandals have surfaced, exposing that various shoppers have purchased real animal fur without knowledge of doing so, supporting the harmful treatment of animals.

Unfortunately, the practice’s unethical behavior does not only stop at wildlife. Many of the workers that make these fast fashion products undergo cruel treatment. They work in harsh environments with low-paying wages and limited human rights, if any at all, to defend themselves. Sadly, workers develop problems with their physical and mental health after working under such circumstances.

Famous clothing outlets that individuals use daily, like H&M, Shein, and Uniqlo, are lines that operate fast fashion. Regardless of their actions, sustainable shopping is becoming lost in favor of inexpensive and popular wear. Companies with innumerable garments that are up to date with trends or have a limited supply of specific styles made with cheap materials are most likely reaping the success of the fast fashion market.

However insignificant clothes seem in contrast to other global issues, their production continues to threaten life. While ending fast fashion entirely is impossible, it could be limited. Being watchful and researching the brands one uses can help lessen the destructive effects of fast fashion.

Written by Margeyah Dominique | Graphic Designed by Margeyah Dominique

Published March 6, 2023 | ePathfinder | Feature