The Complex Truth About Sustainability in Fashion and Textiles

The fashion and textile industry is a $4 trillion global powerhouse, employing over 100 million people, primarily women, and spanning everything from clothing and home goods to automotive and industrial textiles. While reducing consumption is a clear environmental imperative, doing so without systemic change could cause widespread economic harm. The industry contributes heavily to emissions, water pollution, and microplastic contamination, especially through synthetic fibres. Although promising innovations like compostable fibres, cleaner dyes, AI logistics, and recycling exist, they remain a small fraction of the market. Real progress requires industry-wide adoption, supportive policy, consumer action, and greater education about the true impact of our choices.