Has it occurred to you that your outfits can be detrimental to your health and that of the environment?
No, we're not trying to make you feel guilty, but let’s take a closer look at some eye-opening facts. According to an analysis by Business Insider, the fashion industry emits more carbon than international flights and maritime shipping combined. In fact, fashion production accounts for 10% of total global carbon emissions, comparable to the emissions of the entire European Union. This industry not only dries up precious water sources but also pollutes rivers and streams, while a staggering 85% of textiles end up in landfills each year. Even when washing clothes, microfibers, equivalent to 50 billion plastic bottles are released into the oceans annually.
The Hidden Human Cost of Fast Fashion
Fast fashion comes with a heavy social price tag. Many textile workers, primarily women in developing countries, endure grueling working conditions and receive very low wages. In some cases, they’re forced to work in unsafe conditions, infringing upon their basic human rights (UNEP, 2018; WRI, 2019). According to Human Rights Watch, these working environments often expose them to toxic chemicals that not only endanger their health but can also harm consumers who wear the garments. The same pollution that harms our planet can have adverse health effects, emphasizing the need for a shift in the fashion industry.
The environmental and social costs of fast fashion make it clear: it’s time to rethink our approach. It’s time to adopt more sustainable business models and practices. But what does sustainable fashion really look like, and how can we be a part of the change?
Understanding the Impact of the Fashion Industry
The clothing industry is a significant part of the global economy, valued at around USD 1.3 trillion and employing over 300 million people across the value chain (Ellen MacArthur Foundation). However, the production process is extremely resource-intensive. Over the past 20 years, global fiber production has nearly doubled, from 58 million tons in 2000 to 116 million tons in 2022. Projections suggest that if nothing changes, fiber production could reach 147 million tons by 2030 (Textile Exchange, 2023).
This trend comes at a high cost to the environment. The fashion sector is the second-largest consumer of water globally and contributes to 2-8% of global carbon emissions. Fast fashion, characterized by cheaply produced garments designed to quickly mimic the latest trends, is a key driver behind these alarming statistics.
Why Sustainable Fashion Matters
Sustainable fashion aims to minimize the environmental impact of clothing production while ensuring fair and safe conditions for the people involved. This approach addresses the entire lifecycle of clothing: from the materials used to the end-of-life of the product, including how it’s disposed of or recycled.
The traditional fashion industry’s focus on fast production and low prices has led to an unsustainable cycle of consumption and waste. We’re here to break that cycle. At Besida, we believe that every piece of clothing should have a purpose, and every garment should have a story. It’s not about buying more; it’s about buying better.
So, What Can We Do? Besida’s Approach to Sustainable Fashion
Fashion can be beautiful, ethical, and sustainable all at once. At Besida, we use high-quality fabrics, ensuring our pieces are built to last so that you don't need to change your wardrobe with every fleeting trend. Our designs are timeless, able to outlive the ever-changing fashion cycles, offering style that truly stands the test of time.
Our commitment goes beyond the garments themselves. We are passionate about ethical practices, particularly when it comes to the people behind each Besida piece. Our team, based in Nigeria, is an integral part of our journey, and we make it a priority to reward their hard work and dedication. "We pay our tailors fair living wages. Many aspiring tailors find it hard to make a living because they haven’t attained a loyal customer base. Through our workshop, they can simply earn a fixed salary and continue growing their client base on the side,” says our founder, Sophia Danner-Okotie.
Embracing the No-Waste Mindset
As Africans, resourcefulness is part of our DNA. In our communities, we understand the value of preserving resources, and this principle shapes how we approach fashion at Besida. Our No-Waste Initiative is at the heart of what we do, ensuring that fabric scraps are reused creatively rather than discarded. This helps us extend the lifecycle of each material and reduce waste in the production process.
One of the ways Besida contributes to sustainable fashion is through versatile design. Many of our garments are designed to be adaptable, offering flexible sizing that evolves with you. Some of our designs are even multi-way. Imagine owning an outfit that can be styled as a top or a bottom, making it perfect for different occasions and seasons.
Our artisans take pride in creating garments that allow for a customized fit, ensuring you can wear them in different ways depending on your preference. This versatility means that you don’t need a closet full of clothes; just a few thoughtfully designed pieces that bring joy every time you wear them.
How You Can Make a Difference
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by the enormity of the fashion industry’s impact on the environment, but there are tangible steps you can take to make a difference:
- Choose Quality Over Quantity: Investing in high-quality, durable pieces means that you’ll need to replace your wardrobe less often, reducing waste and saving money in the long run.
- Support Ethical Brands: When you purchase from brands like Besida, you’re supporting companies that prioritize fair wages, safe working conditions, and responsible sourcing.
- Take Care of What You Own: Simple habits like washing clothes in cold water and air-drying can extend the life of your garments and reduce your environmental footprint.
- Embrace Versatility: Opt for multi-functional pieces that can be worn in different ways, allowing you to create numerous outfits with fewer items.
- Resist the Urge to Follow Every Trend: Focus on building a wardrobe of timeless essentials rather than chasing after every new style. Classic pieces will always be in fashion.
A Call for Industry-Wide Change
The fashion industry has a long way to go, but it’s not too late to change course. Brands, designers, and consumers all have a role to play in building a more sustainable future. As more people become aware of the impact their clothing choices have on the planet, the demand for eco-friendly, ethical alternatives will continue to grow.
At Besida, we’re committed to being a part of this change. We believe in the power of thoughtful consumption, and we’re here to help you build a wardrobe that aligns with your values.
You don’t need a wardrobe packed with hundreds of pieces that you only wear 10% of the time. Instead, invest in pieces that are designed to be worn, cherished, and passed down. Check out our collection and find clothing that transcends trends, offering style, sustainability, and substance.