Editor’s Note: The David Eccles School of Business is celebrating Earth Day (April 22) this week by sharing stories of Eccles student entrepreneurs and organizations that highlight sustainability.

What is something that you, me, and everyone around the world have in common? Clothing!

No matter where you go, fashion is a staple in every culture. That means roughly 8 billion people around the world are producing fashion waste! This is an item that is utilized for a small amount of time and then ends up in landfills because of the poor quality. This is fast fashion. Not only are consumers’ habits bad, but the production is even worse. It’s time we educate ourselves and find ways to change our habits and shop sustainably. Let’s make the planet a place where even our kids’ kids will see the true beauty of nature.

In 2019, Business Insider reported that 85% of all textiles ended up in the landfill each year. That means if all 8 billion people in this world threw away one garment, millions of items are going to end up in the ocean, forest, and our natural habitats. In addition, many manufacturers produce wastewater filled with harmful chemicals such as lead, mercury, and arsenic directly into the water systems of surrounding communities.

How can we change our habits to make fashion more sustainable? The World Economic Forum gives us a few tactics:

1) Be selective with your fabrics

• Fabrics such as polyester create micro waste that when washed break down into microplastics. Look for fabrics such as organic cotton.

2) Buy less clothing and wear it more often

• Consumers purchased 60% more clothing in 2014 compared to 2000, and this number continues to grow. More than 60% of these items are being worn for half the time. Buy clothing that is high-quality and long-lasting rather than a garment that will deteriorate after a few washes.

3) Shop second-hand

• Shopping from thrift stores can have a huge impact! As fewer people shop at department stores, and fast fashion industries such as H&M or Zarra, these companies will look to pivot their business model, listening to their consumers and becoming more eco-conscious.

Want to learn more and get involved? The Fashion in Business (FIB) student club gives students a space where they can learn about the many intersections of fashion such as sustainability, thrifting, upcycling, design, journalism, entrepreneurship, and business. Join us at Eccles.link/FIB and follow us on social at @fibuofu.

Your premier Eccles Experience. Eccles students have an abundance of opportunities beyond curricular life. Get involved, meet new people, develop your skills, and have fun! For more information, visit Eccles.link/StudentOrg.