Fashion rental has often been considered a viable solution to the environmental crisis caused by the fashion industry. The concept of renting clothes instead of purchasing them seems like a step in the right direction towards sustainability. However, a recent study by the Finnish scientific journal Environmental Research Letters has challenged the eco-friendly image of fashion rental.
The study focused on analyzing the environmental impact of different methods of owning and disposing of clothing, including renting, resale, and recycling. To the surprise of many, the study found that renting clothes had the highest climate impact out of all the methods examined. The main factors contributing to this impact were the transportation and packaging involved in the rental process. Constant transportation between the warehouse and the renter resulted in a significant carbon footprint. Furthermore, the study shed light on the harmful effects of dry cleaning on the environment.
These findings challenge the perception that fashion rental is a sustainable solution to the fashion industry’s environmental crisis. The fashion industry has been estimated to generate 5% of global emissions, and rental has been proposed as a potential remedy. However, the author of the study, Dana Thomas, argues that renting should be viewed as a form of second-hand shopping rather than a constant replacement for purchasing new clothes.
Additionally, the study revealed that many rental brands misuse the term “circular economy” as a means of greenwashing. The circular economy concept involves clothes being circulated among individuals before being recycled. However, the study suggests that rental companies need to adjust their logistics to align with the principles of the circular economy and reduce their climate impact.
The study concludes that the most sustainable approach to fashion consumption is to buy fewer items and wear them for as long as possible. It emphasizes the need for a comprehensive overhaul of the fashion industry instead of minor modifications to achieve true sustainability. Nevertheless, the report acknowledges that consumers also play a role in driving change. The key message is to “buy less, buy better” and prioritize quality over quantity.
While these study findings may surprise those who believe in the potential of fashion rental, they highlight the complexities involved in achieving genuine sustainability in the fashion industry. It is evident that further research and innovation are necessary to develop truly eco-friendly alternatives. In the meantime, consumers can make conscious decisions to reduce their fashion consumption and choose sustainable brands that prioritize longevity and ethical practices.
For more information on sustainable fashion practices, you can refer to the following links:
1. EcoWatch: Sustainable Fashion Brands
2. Vogue: Ten Sustainable Fashion Brands to Support
