How Sustainability Is Changing the Fashion Industry

Core Sustainability Solutions

The global fashion industry, long criticized for its environmental impact and labor practices, is undergoing a revolutionary transformation due to the integration of technology and modern sustainability practices.

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The concept of fashion technology is not limited to the creation of innovative fashion designs; it can also be leveraged to increase a brand’s sustainability efforts, like helping to reimagine the entire supply chain to make it more eco-friendly and socially responsible.

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In this article we will delve into how fashion tech is redefining sustainability in fashion, exploring how technology is being used to both create sustainable materials and reduce waste.

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Why Sustainability Is Essential in the Fashion Industry

According to a report from McKinsey, the global fashion industry accounts for an estimated 3 to 8% of total greenhouse gas emissions, and this figure is set to rise to 30% by 2030 if no further action is taken. With one truckload of clothing sent to landfill or burned every second, it’s clear that change is needed. 

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Fashion not only impacts the environment, but also has big social implications. Globally, the $1.3 trillion clothing industry employs more than 300 million people along the value chain, with the production of cotton alone accounting for almost 7% of all employment in some low-income countries. Sustainability is key to preserving not only the fashion industry as we know it, but also the people it employs and the planet it exists on.

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Sustainable Material Innovation

One of the most significant ways fashion technology is reshaping sustainability is through the development of sustainable materials. Traditional textile production is resource-intensive and often involves harmful chemicals. However, advancements have paved the way for sustainable alternatives.

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Biodegradable Fabrics:

Innovations in biotechnology have led to the creation of biodegradable textiles like mushroom leather, pineapple leather (Piñatex), and lab-grown fabrics. These materials offer alternatives to traditional animal leather and synthetic materials, thereby extending the product life-cycle.  

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Recycled Fabrics:

Fashion technology has also embraced recycling, with companies using post-consumer waste to create new textiles. For instance, JOOR client Stella McCartney demonstrates this method by crafting leggings out of recycled plastic bottles.

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Additionally, in January 2023, the brand launched parka made from Econyl (regenerated nylon created from discarded fishing nets), that is both 100 percent recycled and recyclable. Using sustainable inputs to make clothing and footwear reduces the environmental impact of production.

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3D Printing:

3D printing technology allows for the precise creation of clothing and accessories, minimizing waste by only using the exact necessary amount of material. This technique is especially valuable for custom-fit garments. 

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Waste Reduction in Fashion Production

Fashion has historically had problems with excess waste, from fabric scraps to unsold inventory. Technology is addressing these issues in several ways:

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Zero-Waste Pattern Making:

Advanced algorithms are being used to create patterns that generate little to no fabric waste during production. This not only reduces environmental impact but also cuts down on production costs.

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On-Demand Production:

With the help of technology, brands can produce styles on demand, eliminating the need for overproduction and reducing excess inventory that often ends up in landfills.

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Circular Fashion:

Circular economy models are gaining momentum, encouraging consumers to return used items to brands for recycling or repurposing. Technology facilitates the tracking and processing of these items, closing the loop on fashion waste.

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For instance, that Stella McCartney parka accomplishes just this, because “you can either bring it back to a Stella McCartney store or you can use the QR code on there and post it, and we can then recycle it back into fiber and make it into another garment.” 

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Eco-Friendly Production Processes

Fashion technology is also in the process of optimizing production processes:

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Dyeing Techniques:

Traditional dyeing methods can be water-intensive and polluting. However, advancements in digital printing and dye-sublimation technologies are reducing water usage and chemical waste in textile production.

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Supply Chain Transparency:

Blockchain technology is being used to create transparent supply chains, allowing consumers to trace the journey of their clothing from raw materials to finished product. More specifically, blockchain provides a digital ledger that keeps a clear and secure record of transactions in a tamper-evident manner for various parties to see. This transparency promotes ethical practices and ensures accountability.

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Energy-Efficient Manufacturing:

Sustainable factories are integrating renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, to reduce their carbon footprint. Selfridges, a retailer on our platform, has rolled out their Naked Click & Collect service, reducing their transit packaging and saving an estimated 7.7 tonnes of carbon emissions. 

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How Consumers and Regulations Are Shaping Sustainable Fashion

Increasing public awareness about fashion’s negative environmental impact has led to a strong buyer desire for more sustainable options. As eco-conscious Gen Z consumers gain purchasing power, demand for ethically made and environmentally responsible products continues to rise, and buyers are adapting their assortments to reflect these values.

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At the same time, tighter government regulations and the rollout of Digital Product Passports are accelerating change, pushing brands to embrace sustainable practices and ensure they remain competitive in the evolving fashion landscape.

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How Technology Improves Sustainable Fashion Practices

Digital innovation is helping brands strengthen their sustainability efforts. Tools like AI and 3D design minimize material waste by reducing the need for physical patterns, swatches, and samples.

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Automation is increasing brand efficiency while lowering overproduction, and data tracking is allowing brands to easily identify areas of improvement and also be more transparent with buyers and consumers about their business practices. 

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JOOR: A Sustainable Platform for Wholesale in Fashion

As consumers become more environmentally conscious, fashion brands that embrace these technological innovations are not only reducing their environmental footprint but also staying ahead in a rapidly evolving industry. The future of fashion lies in the hands of those who combine style with sustainability, and fashion tech is leading the way toward a more eco-friendly and socially responsible fashion world. 

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JOOR is a digital B2B wholesale fashion platform that empowers retailers and brands to digitize their wholesale business, thus engaging in more sustainable wholesale transactions while improving the user experience. 

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To learn more about our platform, click here.

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FAQs

What is driving sustainability in the fashion industry?

Sustainability in fashion is being driven by a combination of tightening government regulations, growing consumer demand for ethical products, and increased commitment from buyers seeking eco-conscious brands.

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How do sustainable materials reduce environmental impact?

Eco-friendly materials such as organic cotton, linen, and hemp typically require fewer pesticides and water to grow, reducing the negative impact on the environment.  

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Why is supply chain transparency important?

Supply chain transparency ensures that ethical and sustainable regulations are being upheld, which is important for both buyers and consumers.

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How does technology support sustainable fashion?

Digital tools can be used by fashion brands to support their sustainability efforts by increasing efficiency, reducing waste, and making transparency easier. 

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How does JOOR contribute to sustainability?

By digitizing the wholesale process from end to end, JOOR reduces the need for physical resources and manual processes that usually have increased carbon emissions. Its virtual showrooms and digital linesheet offer an alternative to international trade show travel and reduce the need for physical samples, while its reporting tools use data to help brands plan better, reducing excess inventory.