Fashion’s Role in a Global Circular Economy: A UN Discussion on Sustainability
As the 80th session of the United Nations unfolds, sustainability has emerged as a central theme, particularly in the fashion industry. On September 23, the event titled “Fashion’s Role in a Global Circular Economy” brought together industry leaders and innovators to discuss the pressing need for a shift towards circularity in fashion. Organized by the United Nations Fashion and Lifestyle Network, the event highlighted the collaborative efforts of over 380 members from 139 countries, emphasizing that even in challenging times, cross-border cooperation is achievable.
The Waste Crisis in Fashion
The statistics surrounding clothing waste are staggering. According to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, the average American discards more than 81.5 pounds of clothing annually, with many garments worn only seven to ten times before being thrown away. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for a paradigm shift in how both consumers and the fashion industry approach clothing consumption and disposal.
Panelists at the event, including Samina Virk, CEO of Vestiaire Collective North America; Sarah Teresinski, founder of Redeux Style; and designer Mara Hoffman, focused on proactive strategies to combat this waste crisis. Rather than merely reacting to the consequences of fast fashion, the discussion aimed to explore innovative solutions that promote sustainability and circularity.
Understanding Circularity in Fashion
Lindita Xhaferi-Salihu, the sectoral engagement lead for the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, emphasized the importance of understanding the science and data behind circularity. She noted that while many companies are experimenting with new business models aimed at sustainability, the challenge lies in scaling these efforts effectively. “There are lots of different companies that are looking at circularity, and how they can switch to new business models,” she stated, highlighting the necessity of engaging with policymakers to facilitate meaningful change.
Joan Kennedy of the Business of Fashion moderated the discussion, guiding the panelists through the complexities of implementing circular practices in the fashion industry.
A Broken System: The Designer’s Perspective
Mara Hoffman shared her personal journey in the fashion industry, revealing that she had to pause her sustainable collection last year due to the systemic challenges within the industry. “We’re in a broken system,” she remarked, pointing out the difficulties in financing sustainable choices and navigating policy hurdles. Hoffman stressed the need for a positive outlook on circularity, advocating for designs that prioritize longevity and emotional connection with consumers. She urged designers to consider the end-of-life of garments from the very beginning of the design process, emphasizing the importance of using materials that are recyclable, regenerative, or organic.
The Role of Secondhand Fashion
Samina Virk discussed the evolution of Vestiaire Collective, a global secondhand luxury fashion platform founded in Paris 16 years ago. The platform operates on principles of fashion curation, trust through authentication, community building, and sustainability. Virk encouraged consumers to make intentional purchasing decisions, focusing on investment pieces and considering the resale value of garments. She highlighted Vestiaire’s initiatives, such as banning certain fast-fashion brands that do not meet sustainability standards, as part of their commitment to reducing textile waste.
Virk also pointed out that an astonishing 92 million tons of textile waste are produced annually. To combat this, Vestiaire has introduced a cost-per-wear metric, encouraging consumers to think critically about their purchases. Through social media outreach, the platform aims to shift consumer behavior away from the constant pursuit of new items.
Upcycling and Consumer Awareness
Sarah Teresinski shared her journey from launching Redeux Kids as a single mother to rebranding her company as Redeux Style, focusing on upcycling and sustainability. She emphasized the parallels between fast fashion and fast furniture, noting that many items are designed for obsolescence. Teresinski aims to educate consumers on making sustainable choices, whether through thrifting or adopting eco-friendly practices in their daily lives. Her innovative hacks, such as repurposing ceiling fan blades as wall hooks, exemplify how small, creative decisions can contribute to a larger movement toward sustainability.
The Future of Fashion: A Call to Action
Xhaferi-Salihu concluded the discussion by urging the fashion industry to lead the conversation on circularity from multiple angles. She posed a thought-provoking question: “What would the fashion industry of the future look like to make us want things that are more sustainable?” This call to action invites industry stakeholders to envision a future where sustainability is not just an afterthought but a fundamental aspect of fashion design and consumption.
Conclusion
The dialogue surrounding fashion’s role in a global circular economy is more critical than ever. As the industry grapples with the consequences of fast fashion, the insights shared during this UN event highlight the potential for transformative change. By prioritizing sustainability, engaging consumers, and fostering collaboration across sectors, the fashion industry can pave the way for a more responsible and circular future. The challenge lies not only in rethinking business models but also in reshaping consumer behavior to embrace a more sustainable approach to fashion.
