Sustainability of Fashion - What role can you play as a consumer?

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The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. It accounts for about 10% of global carbon emissions and about 20% of wastewater. It is also one of the main sources of microplastics in the rivers and ocean systems. Besides serious environmental consequences, the textile industry also has negative social consequences with about 80% of the workers being women. Incidents of discrimination, sexual harassment, and abuse are prevalent in almost all countries. Workers are paid below minimum wages and suffer major health issues due to exposure to cotton dust and other particles. This topic aims to raise consumer awareness about the role they can play to increase the sustainability of fashion.