The fashion industry, known for its excessive use of synthetic fibres and disposable plastics, is facing a battle over sustainability. Inditex, Zara’s parent company, is seeking to reduce its emissions by half and eliminate single-use plastics by the end of this year. However, Zalando, a major online fashion retailer, hesitates to meet these demands.
Polythene bags, commonly used in the fashion trade to protect clothing during transportation, have become contentious. Inditex aims to reuse and recycle its bags, but Zalando questions the true impact of these measures, emphasising that packaging constitutes only about 5% of its competitor H&M’s carbon footprint.
While Inditex should be commended for its efforts to reduce its carbon footprint, critics highlight its historical contribution to the fast fashion phenomenon. Zara’s rapid turnover of cheaply made clothing and frequent production of new collections have fueled the industry’s rising carbon footprint and encouraged consumers to view clothing as disposable.
Beyond the plastic packaging debate, the fashion industry must also address the overproduction and subsequent waste of garments. Post-Christmas sales, when excess inventory is heavily discounted or discarded, symbolise the industry’s struggle with sustainability. Approximately 40% of clothing is sold at full price, while the remaining 60% faces markdowns or remains unsold.
To attain a more sustainable garment industry, consumers must shift towards purchasing fewer, higher-quality garments that can be mended and reused rather than disposed of. The widespread use of cheap polyester, which contributes to the production of disposable plastics, further exacerbates the problem.
While Inditex and Zalando’s clash illuminates the challenges companies face regarding plastics and sustainability in the fashion industry, it also highlights the need for a more holistic approach. A significant reduction in waste and carbon footprints can only be achieved by curbing overproduction, encouraging responsible consumer behaviour, and promoting durable materials. As the industry grapples with these issues, sustainability must become a paramount priority in the fashion world
