European consumption of textiles has a considerable environmental impact. The rise of "fast fashion" characterised by mass-producing low-cost clothing replicating high-fashion trends, has led to a dramatic increase in textile production and waste generation. In this chapter, we will explore the challenges and impact of the textiles sector on the environment and climate change. You will also learn about the EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles and what that means for the future of textile use.
The fashion industry is notorious for being one of the most polluting industries in the world, but initiatives like the flea market organised by the Spanish model and young European climate pact ambassador Clara, are taking steps to change that. This initiative, which took place in December and January 2023, was aimed at raising funds for AJOY, a primary school in Mafinga, Tanzania, and supporting Eutopia Vintage, a small local business in Palencia, Spain, which promotes sustainable fashion.
