The British fashion industry has recently faced criticism from parliamentarians who argue that it is exploiting workers and harming the environment. In a report released by the Parliament’s Environmental Audit Committee, concerns were raised about the over-consumption and waste generated by the fast fashion model that dominates the market in the UK.
With Britain leading the way in clothing purchases per person in Europe, the issue of ‘fast fashion’ has become more prominent. This type of clothing production focuses on quickly producing cheap garments to keep up with the latest trends, leading to an increase in waste and worker exploitation.
The committee surveyed 16 major retailers to assess their practices regarding worker rights, sustainable materials, and efforts to reduce waste. Shockingly, only a third of the retailers surveyed had committed to ensuring a living wage for garment workers. Some well-known retailers like JD Sports, Sports Direct, and Amazon UK were identified as lagging in sustainability efforts, while others like Asos and Marks & Spencer were recognized for their progress in this area.
One concerning finding in the report was the exploitation of workers in factories in Leicester, which supply clothing to brands like Boohoo and Missguided. The committee highlighted issues such as low wages and the bypassing of regulations to maximize profits.
Moreover, the report drew attention to the environmental impact of the fashion industry, with a significant amount of textile fibers ending up in landfills or incinerators after use. While some retailers have taken steps towards sustainability, there is still a need for more action to be taken to address these challenges.
Chairwoman Mary Creagh expressed disappointment in the lack of action by major retailers and stressed the need for consumers to be informed about the practices of the companies they support. The committee plans to propose recommendations to the government to address these issues in the coming months.
For more information on sustainable fashion practices and worker rights in the industry, you can visit the following links:
EcoTextile News
Labour Behind the Label
