Many times we fail to consider the makers and producers of the apparel items we adorn our bodies with, along with the depletion of natural resources. Ethical product manufacturing for the consumer economy is vital to respond to the hazardous exposure to deadly chemicals and production methods. Most news relating to the clothing and textile industry is not openly shared with the masses. Granted, it’s not uncommon to hear about well-known retail brands being busted for supporting sweatshops for their cheap labor expense. However, I voice that consumers should be provided more information about how specific brands treat their workers and the environmental conditions, or the lack thereof, that are being supported by revenue spun from consumer spending. For example, water and textile pollution is a big problem that needs immediate attention since it directly affects mankind, while destroying natural ecosystems.
I propose that standards relating to marketing and profitability be modified to include environmental responsible activities as determination of how successful a company is. I think it’s unfair to permit competition in the marketplace that is inaccurately measured. There should be a distinction between companies intentionally harming the environment and its people, and those businesses trying to better it by counteracting the damage that has already been done. Mandating a reclassification of companies and their products would prompt manufacturers to design their products more efficiently in efforts to excel above their competitors and penetrate the market in a deeper, compassionate way.
This concept would specifically target over-consumers, individuals who are spending/buying exceedingly above what they need for survival purposes, by giving them the education necessary to change their habit to one that is eco-efficient. According to Design Activism article by Fuad-Luke, design activists use artifacts and design processes to influence change by disrupting the status quo and revealing better visions for society. I’m pushing to inspire change in government policies and business practices to help consumers make more sustainable choices when purchasing fashions. This action has the power to awaken the consciousness of naïve shoppers about their ridiculous consumption patterns that further contribute to the devastation of the Earth. Let’s transform communities by greening businesses!
One of the most important things I learned from taking a sustainability course is that consumer behavior plays a primary role in the mistreatment of the environment. Processes such as growing cotton and using dyes for coloring have lasting impacts, and we are starting to reap the destruction that our industry has sown. We have to do something now, including myself. For examples, I realize that the millions of papers I have collected at each semester should be consciously recycled, not thrown away into the trash can. I should recycle my soda bottles more often and many other actions that I can take to care for this beautiful planet. I plan on sharing this knowledge with my friends and family. We all have to do our part to see it to flourish and grow for many more years to come. I would like to learn more about upcycling and the new ways of using products once used for one main function.
