“Did You Know? Producing textiles consumes a significant amount of water and requires land to grow cotton and other fibers. For instance, an estimated 2,700 liters of fresh water are needed to make a single cotton t-shirt, enough to meet one person’s drinking needs for 2.5 years (European Parliament, 2024)

The fast fashion industry is under growing scrutiny due to its detrimental impact on the environment. This is a result of its rapid production and the constant supply of inexpensive, throwaway clothing reaching the market. According to the data from the European Parliament, textile production is responsible for 20% of global clean water pollution from dyeing and finishing products and contributes to 10% of global carbon emissions.  

Addressing this issue, Ferren Justine, one of our impact makers, expresses her concern about fast fashion and encourages people to shift their choices to sustainable fashion.  

Commitment to Sustainable Fashion: Moving Away From Fast Fashion

Fast fashion’s unsustainable practices, such as excessive water usage, harmful chemicals, and the vast amounts of waste generated, prompted Ferren to rethink the industry’s current trajectory.

Her education in fashion design provided her with the technical skills and knowledge to identify the pressing need for change. Ferren realized that without adopting more sustainable manufacturing methods, the fashion industry would continue to contribute significantly to environmental degradation.

Making a Difference: Starting Small in Sustainable Fashion

Ferren believes that the journey toward sustainable fashion can begin with small, meaningful steps. She identifies two key areas where change is crucial: sourcing raw materials and utilizing final products in everyday life.

• Sourcing Raw Materials: According to Ferren, choosing sustainable raw materials is the first step. Opting for textiles made from recycled cotton or organic fibers is a more eco-friendly choice. Many suppliers have also started using low-impact chemicals and implementing their own water treatment systems to minimize waste during production. These practices reduce environmental harm and pave the way for a more sustainable industry.

• Utilizing Final Products: Ferren advocates for the Capsule Wardrobe concept as a practical approach to sustainable fashion. A Capsule Wardrobe comprises a small collection of versatile items such as T-shirts, shirts, outerwear, and trousers. These pieces can be mixed and matched to create various looks, reducing the need for excessive clothing purchases. This approach encourages consumers to buy less and choose quality over quantity, significantly reducing waste.

Shared Goals and Aligning Values       

Ferren’s dedication to sustainable fashion led her to join KoltiTrace SHOP as an Impact Maker. This collaboration was a natural fit, as Ferren shares the same values and vision as Koltiva and KoltiTrace SHOP. Through this, she aims to broaden the understanding and implementation of sustainable fashion practices.

Ferren’s contributions extend beyond advocacy. She actively participates in recycling initiatives, transforming used garments into new products. This commitment supports environmental sustainability and helps reduce clothing waste, showcasing Ferren’s hands-on approach to making a difference.

As we consider the path towards a more sustainable future, it is essential to keep Ferren’s insight in mind. She highlights the importance of sustainable living and mindful consumption in our day-to-day activities.

“Make the most out of everything you own before investing in new stuff,” suggests Ferren. “If a new purchase is required, be sure it is environmentally friendly and created sustainably.”

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Interested in learning more about sustainability products and other Impact Makers in KoltiTrace SHOP?

Visit KoltiTrace SHOP’s website for the latest updates to learn more about our impact makers and other sustainability products like sustainable coffee, sea salt, coconut oil, and chocolate bars. As more individuals like Ferren join the cause, the shift towards sustainable fashion becomes not just a possibility but a reality. Through collective effort and commitment, the fashion industry can move away from the destructive practices of fast fashion and towards a brighter, more sustainable future.