Originally in New York City, since 1943, Fashion Week has become a world-famous event, capturing the attention of thousands, while brands showcase their unique collections, influencing the latest fashion trends for the next season.
The fashion runaways in London, Milan, Paris and New York City include shows, presentations, dinners, parties and shopping before, during and after the events.
While the events strengthen the economy, through increased revenue for transportation, restaurants and hospitality sectors, some impacts are not as positive.
A report was conducted by ORDRE & Carbon Trust to calculate the impact of these events in recent years on the environment.
The cost totaled $1.4 billion, though this is the lower estimated value on the scale.
Over the year-long preparation of the event, 241,000 metric tons of carbon dioxide was produced.
The emissions measured were New York City, contributing to 37%, Paris, 28%, London, 18% and Milan, 17%.
The fashion industry is also a major contributor to plastic pollution. [source: Waste Managed – Fashion Waste 2024]
Globally, the fashion industry produces around 92 million tons of textile waste annually, leading to responsibility of 10% of the world’s carbon emissions.
The industry also accounts for 8.1% of global greenhouse gas emissions and 20% global water wastage.
Just in the UK, the average expenditure of British consumers on clothing is £980.50 per person annually.
To combat these shocking statistics requires effort from everyone.
Manufacturers and designers should choose eco-friendly materials and processes, encouraging customers to purchase high-quality clothing which will not be thrown out after a few wears.
On a smaller scale, clothes swapping, donating, thrifting and repairing clothes are proactive manageable steps we can all take to do our part.
