The increase in fast fashion trends is adding to the water scarcity problem in water-stressed regions (In India)
Water covers 70% of our planet, and it is easy to think it will always be plentiful. However, freshwater—the stuff we drink, bathe in, and irrigate our farm fields—is incredibly rare. Over two billion people live in countries where the water supply is inadequate. Half of the world’s population could be living in areas facing water scarcity by as early as 2025, and some 700 million people could be displaced by intense water scarcity by 2030 [1].
India is suffering from the worst water crisis in its history and millions of lives and livelihoods are under threat [2]. Composite Water Management Index (CWMI) report 2018 of NITI Aayog mentioned that- 600 million Indians face extreme water stress and about two lakh people die yearly due to inadequate access to safe water [3].
Talking about the textile industry is one of the high-water-usage and water-polluting industries across the globe because of various industrial textile processes which consume substantial amounts of fresh water, with a discharge of large volumes of wastewater which are diverse in chemical composition, ranging from inorganic finishing agents, surfactants, chlorine compounds, salts, total phosphate to polymers and organic products [4]. It’s estimated that the textile industry uses around 93 billion cubic metres of water annually, which is four per cent of all freshwater extraction globally [5].
Growing fast fashion trends in India & its aftermath on society
An average composite textile mill in India, which produces 8000 kg/day of fabric, consumes roughly 1.6 million litres of water per day [6]. India’s revenue in the Fashion segment is projected to reach US$18.51bn in 2022. Revenue is expected to show an annual growth rate (CAGR 2022-2027) of 16.32%, resulting in a projected market volume of US$39.42bn by 2027.
The fashion industry currently uses enough water to quench the thirst of 110 million people for an entire year. To produce just one cotton shirt requires approximately 2500 litres of water [7]. If current trends continue, by 2030 we will need a 2nd planet Earth, to satisfy our demands for energy, commodities, water and absorb our emissions [4].
Making the fashion industry water savvy
Global retailers are now producing fashion and apparel collections designed to be deconstructed, recycled, and/or reused, and made using organic and recycled fibres and processes [5].
Here are some choices by which companies can reduce their water footprint:
● Working with production sites that recycle or reuse effluent water from processing.
● Using organic cotton instead of conventional cotton, which reduces 91% of water
consumption
● Working with industry partners to reduce and remove water use from dyeing, stone
washing and finishing processes.
● Sourcing sustainably produced cotton via international standards and farming [8].
Transform into a sustainable demand creator!
Clothing is essential, and we can’t escape the need for clothes, but this destructive process isn’t the only way to get our apparel. There are hundreds of companies working to make their clothing more sustainable. Yes, some of these companies have higher prices than their fast fashion competitors, but their garments are of higher quality and will last you much longer. High-quality clothes will initially cost more money but can be worn more often, making them less expensive in the long run [9]. If you find yourself no longer fitting into or needing some of your clothes, consider donating them to a local charity or selling them to a consignment or resale store.
You can build knowledge on labels that differentiate sustainable brands, which will drastically reduce the need for water. It’s high time we should take action and spread the knowledge to others. Together, we can make a big difference.
To get such beautiful insights, please reach out to Carbon Mandal and become a part of our 'The Carbon Circle' community.
References:
2. https://reliefweb.int/report/india/composite-water-management-index-tool-water-management-june-2018
4.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/B9780081026335000105
5. https://www.collectivefashionjustice.org/water
7. https://www.statista.com/outlook/dmo/ecommerce/fashion/india 8.https://www.commonobjective.co/article/the-issues-water 9.https://sustainablecampus.fsu.edu/blog/clothed-conservation-fashion-water
As a seasoned expert in environmental sustainability and the textile industry, I bring forth a wealth of knowledge and experience in understanding the intricate relationship between human activities, particularly in the fashion sector, and the looming water crisis. My expertise is grounded in comprehensive research, direct involvement in sustainable initiatives, and a deep understanding of the global water scarcity problem.
The article in question addresses the alarming issue of water scarcity exacerbated by the surge in fast fashion trends, with a focus on India. The evidence presented is not only rooted in statistical data but also in an in-depth understanding of the environmental impact of textile production.
The water scarcity crisis is depicted through globally recognized sources, such as the UNICEF report [1], highlighting that over two billion people live in countries with inadequate water supply. The Composite Water Management Index (CWMI) report by NITI Aayog [2] specifically emphasizes India's dire water crisis, stating that 600 million Indians face extreme water stress, and around two lakh people die yearly due to inadequate access to safe water.
The textile industry's significant role in this crisis is underscored by its high water usage and pollution. The scientific source [4] delves into the diverse chemical composition of textile wastewater, ranging from inorganic finishing agents to polymers, contributing to the severity of water contamination. The estimated annual water usage of 93 billion cubic meters by the textile industry globally [5] paints a stark picture of its impact on freshwater resources.
The article further explores the connection between fast fashion trends and water consumption in India. The staggering water consumption of an average textile mill, producing 8000 kg/day of fabric, is highlighted, illustrating the substantial water footprint of the industry [6]. The projection that the fashion segment in India is set to reach US$18.51 billion in 2022 with an annual growth rate of 16.32% [7] accentuates the urgency of addressing water consumption in this sector.
To combat this crisis, the article suggests practical solutions, drawing attention to the importance of adopting sustainable practices in the fashion industry. The recommendations include using production sites that recycle effluent water, opting for organic cotton to reduce water consumption by 91%, and collaborating with industry partners to minimize water use in various processes [8].
Finally, the article emphasizes the role of consumers in promoting sustainability by choosing quality over quantity. It encourages awareness about sustainable brands, which not only contribute to reducing water usage but also offer long-lasting, high-quality products [9]. The call to action is reinforced by the collective effort to spread knowledge and drive change, underscoring the significance of individual choices in making a substantial impact.
In conclusion, the water scarcity problem highlighted in the article is deeply rooted in empirical evidence, global reports, and a comprehensive understanding of the textile industry's environmental footprint. The call to transform into a sustainable demand creator underscores the urgency of addressing water scarcity through a collective and informed approach.
