The Truth Behind Its Production

The Societal and Economic Impacts of Fast Fashion  

        Fast fashion does not only affect our environment. It also has negative consequences on our economy and society. This industry has been chastised for its poor societal repercussions against some sustainable development goals of the 2030 agenda, such as economic growth, responsible consumption, and many more.

infographic source: https://the-dots.com/projects/fast-fashion-infographic-485174

Unsafe Working Conditions

        According to the Victoria State Government, an employer’s primary responsibility is to ensure that the workplace is safe and that anyone working in or visiting the workplace is not exposed to hazards. This duty should be followed by all employers worldwide to show respect and care to the people who work for them. In the clothing industry, about 40-75 million people are employed. This may be a good opportunity for them and their families, yet no one knows what lies behind those factories. It is said that 80% of these employed workers are women, and they face terrible abuse and unsafe working conditions.

source: ITV News. (2014, April 23). Rana Plaza factory collapse: Families still await millions in
compensation [Video]. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qUJ4v0Ja0h8&ab_channel=ITVNews

Poor Wages

        Aside from this, employees should be given enough credit for their work through enough salary. Truthfully, garment workers are paid a piece rate of 2-6 cents per piece of clothing they create. This means that bout 85% of these workers do not earn the minimum wage, and they work for about 60-70 hours a week. Considering their unsafe, cramped, and poorly ventilated working environment, they should be paid more than what they deserve. 

source: O’Malley, M. (2019, September 19). Yes We’re in a Climate Emergency, But
What About the Garment Workers? [Image]. Eco Warrior Princess.
https://ecowarriorprincess.net/2019/09/climate-emergency-slogan-tees-garment-workers/

Forced And Child Labor

            “Child’s hands are too small to work.”

            The children are supposed to enjoy their childhood and spend all their time playing. They do not belong in dirty and warm clothing factories working all day long to meet consumer demand. It may be shocking, but this is one of the truths behind the fashion industry. Evidence of forced and child labor can be observed in the fashion industry of countries like Bangladesh, Brazil, China, and more, including our country, the Philippines. So, before you shop for clothes in large volume, it would be best to familiarize yourself with what’s happening behind the brands you support.

source: Edwards, B. (n.d.). Stop Child Labor in the fashion industry [Image].
Change.Org. https://change.org/p/primark-stop-child-labor-in-the-fashion-industry