Author(s): Santosh Hooda

Abstract:
This paper explores the critical need for sustainability in the fashion industry, addressing environmental degradation, ethical labour practices, and conscious consumption. It defines sustainable fashion as a holistic approach to designing, producing, distributing, and consuming garments with minimal environmental impact and maximal social responsibility. Key pillars include the use of eco-friendly materials, recycling and upcycling practices, adoption of natural dyes, and wet processing innovations. Technologies like nanotechnology enhance fabric durability and reduce resource consumption. The zero-waste design approach and renewable energy integration further contribute to minimizing the industry’s carbon footprint. Ethical labour practices emphasizing worker well-being, fair wages, and safe working conditions are essential. Transparency through eco-labels and digital tracking ensures consumers make informed decisions. The circular economy model focusing on recycling, reuse, and product longevity supports a closed-loop system that minimizes waste. Conscious consumption trends, including capsule wardrobes, second-hand shopping, and rental fashion, are shifting consumer behaviour, particularly among younger generations. The study concludes that achieving green fashion requires coordinated efforts from designers, manufacturers, policymakers, and consumers. Through innovation, ethical practices, and environmental consciousness, the fashion industry can transform into a sustainable and responsible sector, safeguarding both planetary health and social equity for future generations.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.22271/23957476.2025.v11.i2g.1901