Assessing the Impact of Cheap and Fast Fashion Industry on Society, Environment and Sustainability: What is the True Cost?

Year 2025, Issue: 6, 211 - 222, 21.03.2025

Sheık Humayun , Bhavadharani M

https://doi.org/10.62156/habitus.1610275

Abstract

Fast fashion is a rapidly growing industry that has a significant impact on the environment, with environmental degradation being one of its most concerning effects. This industry not only contributes to the deterioration of land, air, and water, but it also involves the exploitation of third-world countries, particularly in the production process and waste disposal. Due to a lack of proper regulatory methods and waste management systems, the disposal of fast fashion garments is polluting the planet. This study explores the effects of the fast fashion industry’s rapid growth, focusing on its environmental consequences and its disproportionate impact on third-world nations. Additionally, it discusses potential interventions to reduce the growth of the fast fashion industry and mitigate its harmful effects. The role of India’s traditional clothing practices is also examined, offering an alternative that could help reduce reliance on fast fashion trends. Ultimately, this paper seeks to highlight the urgent need for intervention and sustainable alternatives to combat the negative effects of fast fashion.

Keywords

Fast Fashion, Sustainable Development, Environmental Degradation, Fashion Industry, Global North-South

Project Number

nil

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