Linear Fashion Economy vs. Circular Fashion Economy
April 13, 2022You might have heard the terms linear economy and circular economy in previous posts of mine (here and here). A linear and circular economy does not just apply to the fashion industry, rather the entirety of our economic systems and its industries. What is a linear and circular economy?
A linear economy is the process of taking raw materials and transforming into products, which is then discarded as waste.
A circular economy is a mode of production and consumption, which involves sharing, leasing, reusing, repairing, refurbishing, and recycling existing materials and products as long as possible (Wikipedia).
In simpler terms, a linear economy is built on a lack of respect and value of goods, which ultimately goes to waste, whereas a circular economy is built on extending the lifespan of goods through a multitude of sustainable processes and with respect to biodiversity and the environment.
Take --> Make --> Use --> Waste
Let's break down how exactly a linear economy looks like in the fashion industry:
This system cuts corners to avoid higher costs and time, which ultimately compromises labour work of farmers and environmental health, such as over-farming and the use of pesticides (Grow Ensemble).
Microplastics are also a huge problem when clothing is washed, as it goes into our water systems and pollutes are ocean. The use of our clothing creates more harm than good, as we can see!
A circular economy is also regenerative, which means the materials and products used to make a garment is then returned back to the biosphere (the environment), where it can be reused for environmental purposes when it is no longer of use to us (Motif).
Take --> Make (Recycle, Return) --> Use (Repair, Reuse)
A lot is considered during this stage when designing a garment, which can include and is not limited to;
- Durability of a garment; how long can it last for?
- Timelessness; is it trendy or can it be a timeless piece to wear for years to come?
- Are the materials used sustainably sourced and able to be reused and biodegrade?
- Are the garment workers being treated and paid fairly?
- Can the garment be repaired or reused once the item has reached its max wear? (The Honest Consumer)
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