Analyzing the Need and Viability of Sustainable Fashion as a Pathway to Decarbonization
摘要
Environmental cost due to textile industry is rising with ever growing demand in apparel sector. The textile industry, ranked as the sixth most environmentally damaging globally, is facing heightened scrutiny due to its expanding role in the fashion sector. The surge in consumerism, coupled with the rapid growth of the apparel industry, has led to the entry of both domestic and international clothing brands in India. This surge is notably driven by the prevalence of fast fashion trends and the increasing purchasing power of individual households. Fast fashion operates on large-scale production of inexpensive garments designed for short-term use, contributing to significant environmental repercussions. The consequences manifest in various forms, including substantial environmental impact, escalating waste generation from discarded clothing, discharge of harmful dyes, excessive water resource exploitation, and a growing carbon footprint. This paper delves into the environmental impact attributable to the textile industry, exploring sustainability practices within the textile and fashion sectors. Emphasis is placed on utilizing renewable feedstocks as raw materials and leveraging cutting-edge technology for proactive production planning. Additionally, the study compares per capita textile waste across different countries, shedding light on the factors contributing to India's comparatively lower per capita textile waste generation. Furthermore, the article presents case studies highlighting emerging eco-friendly fabric alternatives such as hemp, bamboo, and recycled fabrics. The conclusion suggests that sustainable fashion not only mitigates adverse environmental effects but also paves the way for developmental and innovative opportunities through the exploration of new products and designs.