The Climate Question: Counting the Cost of Fashion

The fashion industry is responsible for 10 per cent of annual global carbon emissions and nearly 20 per cent of waste water. With complex supply chains there are emissions involved in production, transportation and then disposal. While other consumer goods have similar issues, what makes the fashion industry particularly problematic is the frenetic pace of change. With each passing season, consumers are encouraged to buy the latest items to stay on trend. Kate Lamble and Sophie Eastaugh ask can fashion cost the climate less?