Why is sustainable activewear better for the planet and the consumer? Your clothes represent who you are and therefore it is important to dress in a way that makes you look good, while also feeling good. The impact of the fashion industry on the environment is widely known and acknowledged, yet many people don’t know or understand the true cost of their buying habits.
- Requires less water
Organic and recycled materials require far less water than virgin materials. As cotton is generally grown in areas that are already prone to water scarcity, using materials that require less water is far better for the planet, and those that depend on it. Organic cotton reduces water consumption by 91% compared to conventional cotton. It also requires far less harmful pesticides and fertilisers. Soon, Reset21 will introduce Hemp T-shirts which will require far less water, and also reduce contamination of surrounding water sources through less chemical usage.
- Better working conditions
Ethics and sustainability go hand in hand. As a result, Reset21 factories are certified by various partners and certificates to ensure that not only are the garments are made responsibly from an environmental perspective, but also comply with global ethical standards.
- Recognise the impact of our buying decisions
It is easy to forget the life cycle that our clothes go through. From the field, to the factory, to the shop floor, every item of clothing goes through an extensive process before ending up in our wardrobe. Fast fashion and quickly changing seasonal trends have led to a culture where we don’t acknowledge the process our garments go through to be made. Making sustainable fashion choices ultimately leads to greater appreciation for the clothes we purchase.
- Reduce your carbon footprint
Finally, it is well known that making sustainable and eco-friendly choices will reduce your carbon footprint, and thus your impact on the changing climate and the environment. Brand new materials used to make clothes, such as polyester, acrylic and nylon, are produced using fossil fuels. Not only does this release carbon sinks, but the production process requires far more energy than those of natural or recycled fibres. The UN estimates that fashion’s greenhouse gas emissions make up 8-10% of total global emissions. Purchasing clothes made from natural or recycled materials will undeniably reduce your carbon footprint.
Overall, it is clear that sustainable fashion is beneficial for not only the planet, but the consumer too. Stepping away from fast fashion is a step towards better quality clothes, less waste and better environmental conditions. Garments made by Reset21 are made from the elements, and ultimately designed to return to the elements at the end of their useful life.