Clothes That Hurt the Planet More Than You Think

Photo by Clark Street Mercantile on Unsplash

When we think of pollution, we often picture smokestacks or plastic-choked oceans. But fashion? It seems innocent enough until you realize the environmental price tag hanging on that trendy outfit.

The fashion industry is one of the largest polluters in the world, and some clothing types are far worse than others. From synthetic fibers to chemical-laden finishes, here's a closer look at the most non-eco-friendly clothing out there and why it matters.

1. Fast Fashion as the Biggest Offender

It wouldn’t be a conversation about unsustainable clothing without fast fashion leading the charge. These are the clothes you find at ultra-affordable prices in trendy stores that churn out new styles weekly. Fast fashion’s business model is built on speed and volume, which means cheap materials, low wages, and disposable designs.

As Earth.Org highlights, the environmental toll of this industry is staggering. Fast fashion is the second-largest consumer of water globally, using up an enormous amount of this precious resource. It’s also responsible for around 10% of global CO2 emissions.

Despite this massive environmental footprint, fast fashion often slips under the radar. Flashy deals and constantly changing trends keep shoppers distracted from the true cost. 

2. Synthetic Fabrics (Polyester, Nylon, Acrylic)

Polyester might be woven into everything from your favorite workout top to that go-to office blouse. However, behind its versatility lies a major environmental cost. Like nylon and acrylic, polyester is a synthetic fabric made from petroleum, essentially plastic disguised as clothing.

These materials can take hundreds of years to decompose and release countless microplastics into our waterways with every wash. And the impact doesn’t stop there.  According to Textile Exchange, polyester was the single largest contributor to greenhouse gas emissions among all fibers in 2022. Just 47 million tonnes of polyester fiber produced that year were responsible for a staggering 125 million tonnes of CO₂ equivalent.

While it may be convenient and cheap, polyester’s environmental toll is anything but light.

3. Outdoor Clothing

Outdoor and performance gear is often treated with chemicals to make it water- or stain-resistant. Among the worst offenders? PFAS, also known as “forever chemicals.” PFAS are commonly found in rain jackets, hiking pants, ski wear, and even some boots. They don’t break down in nature and have been linked to environmental contamination and serious health risks.

You might have heard about them in connection with the AFFF lawsuit by the Navy and other military personnel.

It’s a growing legal battle that’s been making headlines across the U.S. AFFF, a firefighting foam used since the 1970s and initially developed by 3M and the U.S. Navy, contains high levels of PFAS.

According to TruLaw, improper disposal and cleanup of AFFF foam have allegedly contaminated water supplies across the country. Now, firefighters and military personnel are taking legal action to hold manufacturers and government agencies accountable. Studies suggest that prolonged exposure to PFAS may even increase the risk of certain cancers.

If these chemicals are risky enough for a nationwide legal battle, do we really want them in the clothes we wear?

4. Viscose/Rayon (When Not Sustainably Sourced)

Viscose, or rayon, is often marketed as a “natural” fabric since it’s made from wood pulp. However, the reality behind its production is far from eco-friendly. Traditional viscose manufacturing is extremely energy-intensive and relies on vast chemical processes to extract the cellulose from the wood.

Toxic substances used in the process contribute to significant pollution in manufacturing regions. This is because these chemicals can seep into the environment as liquid waste or toxic fumes.

Additionally, large swathes of forest land are cleared to harvest the pulp, threatening delicate ecosystems. When viscose isn’t sourced sustainably, it’s clear that this so-called "natural" fabric comes with a heavy environmental price.

5. Denim (Conventional Jeans)

Denim is a wardrobe staple for many, but the environmental cost of producing this classic fabric is high. The production process is resource-heavy, requiring vast amounts of water and energy, much of which goes into dyeing and finishing the fabric.

Techniques like sandblasting and stone-washing often used to give denim that worn, distressed look, are also energy-intensive and create toxic waste. Add to that the use of synthetic dyes and harsh chemicals.

The allure of denim's timeless appeal often hides the true cost to our planet.

What Can You Do?

Being an eco-conscious shopper doesn't mean giving up style; it just means making smarter choices. Here are a few tips:

• Look for natural, organic fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, or linen
• Choose PFAS-free outdoor gear and waterproof clothes. 
• Buy less, choose well, and embrace secondhand or vintage clothing.
• Support brands that prioritize transparency, fair labor, and sustainability

FAQs

Are there sustainable alternatives to synthetic fibers in fashion?
Yes, there are many sustainable alternatives to synthetic fibers. Some examples include fabrics made from hemp and bamboo, which have a much lower environmental impact. Additionally, newer materials like Tencel (made from sustainably sourced wood pulp) and recycled polyester are gaining popularity for being both eco-friendly and functional.

Why is recycled polyester a better option than virgin polyester?
Recycled polyester is made from post-consumer plastic waste, like bottles, and uses less energy and water than virgin polyester. It also helps divert plastic waste from landfills and reduces the need for new fossil fuel resources. However, it still sheds microplastics during washing, though it’s a more sustainable alternative compared to virgin polyester. 

What is the impact of dyeing processes in the fashion industry?
The dyeing process in fashion uses significant amounts of water and chemicals, which can contribute to water pollution. Many dyes contain toxic substances like azo dyes, which harm aquatic life and can affect nearby communities' health. Additionally, the vast amount of water required for dyeing fabrics often leads to water scarcity issues in certain regions.

Overall, the clothes we wear every day tell a story about our personal style. However, they also reflect our values and impact on the planet.

By being aware of which materials and practices are the most harmful, we can start making more mindful choices. It’s not about perfection, but progress, and every eco-friendly swap adds up.