The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD) launched a new publication, “Fashion and Land” [1], at COP16 in Saudi Arabia. The report explores the significant impact of the fashion industry on land use, soil health, and degradation through its fiber choices and production practices.
The UNCCD’s report underscores the profound impact of the fashion industry on land use, soil health, and environmental degradation, highlighting how different fiber choices and production practices can lead to various environmental challenges. Each material presents unique environmental challenges, from the high resource demands of cotton to the overgrazing associated with wool and cashmere, and the microplastic pollution from synthetic fibers. Despite these challenges, the report points to emerging alternatives, such as agricultural waste fibers, which offer promising solutions though they remain niche.
The report emphasizes the urgency of adopting sustainable practices across the fashion value chain to mitigate these environmental impacts. It showcases innovative solutions and policy frameworks that can help reduce the industry’s footprint and promote long-term environmental stewardship. The launch of this report at COP16 in Saudi Arabia aims to bring attention to the need for a more sustainable and responsible approach to fashion. The report advocates for a future where the fashion industry not only thrives economically but also contributes positively to the health of our planet.
Sources:
[1] FASHION & LAND: Unravelling the Environmental Impact of Fibers https://www.unccd.int/resources/publications/fashion-and-land
