3 Our Clothes and the environment

Everything we do on a daily basis impacts the environment (someone said “Even what we don’t do). Even the way we shop is certainly connected to protecting the environment.

There was possibly a lot we didn’t know before the internet era. But nowadays, it is pretty fast and easy to get information on almost any topic.

Did you ever wonder how a T-shirt can only cost 3 Euros? Both the cotton and thread have a price. With a Polo shirt, add the buttons, with pants a zipper, etc.

The manufacturer and the seller have to make a profit. Add to that transport and customs expenses, etc.

Somethng is not right. Someone is being exploited in this situation. And we all know who. Do we really want to be an accomplice of this type of business?

Unfortunately, I am not exempt. I did happen to buy something that said ” 5 Euros only!” I remember looking at the label only on my way back home:” Bangladesh”.

I felt bad knowing what had happened to the thousand girls that worked as seamstresses. And even because it had happened. They were forced to work in appalling

conditions so that others could profit. These individuals are responsible for their lives and their families, who are now left without an income.

I also asked myself if it would be even worse should we all stop buying clothes from these countries. What if they end up out of a job because of us?

What if we decided to pay more? How can we guarantee that the workers will get the balance?

Not even the most popular and expensive brands can guarantee that people will be treated better. What should one do? It is extremely difficult decision to make.

I can only hope that “Fair Trade” and those behind clothes marked “Organic” will keep their part of the bargain… and that thanks to them, we are on the right track.

Fortunately, I came to the point of wanting less clothes, but of better quality and ecological. They are more expensive, but they last longer. And everytime you wear them,

you can be proud of yourself for your “positive contribution” to the environment.

The only thing is that those that follow fashion, are not interested in “they last longer”. Fashion changes rapidly. How can one go around with already outdated clothes?

Guys, who decides what (and when) clothes become “in” or “out”? And most of all, why should we follow those rules? Who is making us? We can choose for ourselves what we want

to wear and for how long. Or not?

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