From brands like Shein and Temu, we see the latest fashion trends go on sale for remarkably low prices; what could be $150 on Free People is only $15 on Shein. But when you step back and look at the facts, fast fashion has highly detrimental social and environmental effects on our world. This leads to only one conclusion: fast fashion has to go. 

Fast fashion is defined as “inexpensive clothing produced rapidly by mass-market retailers in response to the latest trends,” according to Google. 

The brands that fuel this are consistently praised for their affordable prices and quick shipping speeds, but the industry’s rapid production rates contribute significantly to environmental damage. 

According to research done by Business Insider, fast fashion accounts for 10% of global carbon emissions and significantly contributes to pollution numbers worldwide. The industry dramatically depletes and trashes numerous water sources, spreads billions of microplastics everywhere, and uses intense energy to produce clothing pieces. 

The environmental effects go hand in hand with the social impact fast fashion has too. The people behind this industry are usually no older than 24, causing most businesses to partake in exploitative practices and even child labor. 

“Rapid consumption of apparel and the need to deliver on short fashion cycles stresses production resources, often resulting in supply chains that put profits ahead of human welfare,” explains the World Resources Institute. 

However, people are slowly starting to recognize the dangers of fast fashion and push towards slow and sustainable fashion. 

Ethical fashion brands prioritize fair wages, environmentally friendly materials and transparent supply chains. Consumers can also combat this problem alongside the companies working toward change. 

To help, you can shop second-hand, invest in quality over quantity, and do your research to support ethical brands. 

While change won’t happen overnight, realizing the issues and taking action to change it will drive meaningful progress in the fashion industry. As awareness grows, the future of fashion may become one where style and sustainability go hand in hand.