What Is A Climate Footprint? 

Climate footprint refers to the environmental impact of human activities, specifically in terms of greenhouse gas emissions and their contribution to climate change. Regarding clothing, the climate footprint encompasses various stages of the fashion industry, including garment production, transportation, and disposal.

The production phase involves raw material extraction, such as growing cotton or manufacturing synthetic fibres, which requires energy and water resources. Additionally, the manufacturing process emits greenhouse gases and generates waste. Transportation contributes to the climate footprint by shipping clothes globally, often resulting in long distances travelled. Additionally, once consumers have used clothing, it is discarded and often ends up in landfills.  

Fashion Statistics On The Environment

The fashion industry has a significant environmental impact. Consider these statistics:

1. Clothing production is responsible for about 10% of global carbon emissions, more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined.
2. It takes approximately 2,700 litres of water to produce one cotton t-shirt, equivalent to what an average person drinks in two and a half years.
3. Around 85% of textiles are added to landfills yearly, contributing to the growing waste problem.
4. Synthetic fibres like polyester release microplastics into the oceans when washed, polluting marine ecosystems.
5. The rise of fast fashion has increased production and consumption, resulting in shorter garment lifespans and more waste. 

Brands Making A Difference

Fortunately, some clothing brands are taking steps to reduce their climate footprint. Many are adopting sustainable practices, such as:

1. Using organic or recycled materials to minimize the environmental impact of production.
2. Implementing energy-efficient technologies in manufacturing processes and reducing water consumption.
3. Embracing circular economy principles by promoting garment recycling, resale, and repair programs.
4. Supporting fair trade and ethical labour practices to ensure workers' rights and well-being.

Brands like Patagonia, EILEEN FISHER, and Stella McCartney are known for their sustainability efforts, striving to create positive change in the fashion industry. For example, Patagonia clothing brand’s mission is to build the best products, cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis. Patagonia is committed to producing high-quality outdoor clothing and gear while minimizing its environmental impact. 

One of the critical aspects of Patagonia's mission is its commitment to environmental sustainability. They strive to reduce their operations and supply chain's adverse environmental effects. Patagonia actively works to implement sustainable practices in their manufacturing processes, including using organic cotton, recycled materials, and innovative technologies that reduce water and energy consumption.

In addition to its product focus, Patagonia is known for its intense activism and advocacy for environmental causes. They engage in grassroots environmental campaigns, support organizations working on conservation and environmental issues, and donate a portion of their sales to environmental initiatives. Patagonia also encourages its customers to repair and reuse their products through their Worn Wear program, further promoting sustainability and extending the lifespan of their garments.

Patagonia's mission is to demonstrate that businesses can force positive change. They aim to inspire other companies and individuals to take action, making sustainability and environmental responsibility central to their operations and influencing the industry.

Companies such as Patagonia are paving the way for better sustainability and encouraging businesses of all sizes to take a look at how they are operating, and although not all aspects of the manufacturing process can be controlled in some situations, choosing brands that are in line with sustainability is a great way to reduce your footprint.  

Decreasing Your Footprint

As individuals, we can also contribute to reducing our clothing climate footprint:

1. Buy less and choose quality: Opt for timeless, durable pieces instead of following fast fashion trends. Invest in high-quality garments that will last longer.
2. Thrift and swap: Explore second-hand stores, online platforms, and clothing swaps to extend the lifespan of clothes.
3. Take care of your clothes: Follow proper care instructions, such as washing in cold water, air-drying, and avoiding excessive ironing to prolong their use.
4. Donate or recycle: Instead of throwing away unwanted clothes, donate them to charities or recycling centers to minimize waste.
5. Use fabric for other purposes, such as scrap cloth, quilting, or stuffing. 

Conclusion

Understanding and reducing our clothing climate footprint is crucial for combating climate change. The fashion industry's impact on the environment is substantial, but we can make a positive difference by supporting sustainable clothing brands and adopting responsible consumer habits. By taking collective action, we can foster a more sustainable and environmentally friendly future for the fashion industry and the planet as a whole.