Why Textile Waste and Fast Fashion Are Bigger Problems Than You Think

When we say sustainable fashion, it’s more than a buzzword — it’s a necessary response to systemic issues that have shaped the global fashion industry for decades. According to the Geneva Environment Network, the fashion and textiles sector is responsible for roughly 2–8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, while an estimated 85% of textiles end up in landfills every year.

The problem runs deep. The UN Environment Programme (UNEP) notes that the industry produces about 92 million tonnes of textile waste annually, driven by the “buy more, wear less” mentality of fast fashion. As Earth.org reports, many garments are worn fewer than ten times before being discarded — often burned or buried rather than recycled.

It’s not just waste — it’s emissions, too. The David Suzuki Foundation estimates that fashion accounts for 8–10% of global carbon emissions, placing it among the most polluting industries in the world. Even efforts labeled as “sustainable” can sometimes backfire: Phys.org recently highlighted how poorly designed circular systems can increase waste if recycling infrastructure isn’t in place.

Together, these findings reveal the scale of the challenge — from massive resource consumption of water and energy to short production cycles and disposable trends. This isn’t just about changing one brand or one wardrobe; it’s about rethinking how clothes are made, used, and valued.

How LACAUSA Is Positioned as Part of the Solution

At LACAUSA, we’re committed to creating fashion that does less harm and more good. Every decision we make — from design to production — is guided by the goal of reducing waste and creating clothing with longevity and meaning.

1. Designing for Longevity
   Our collections are built on timeless silhouettes and durable fabrics, made to last for years — challenging the fast fashion cycle of overconsumption.

2. Mindful Material Choices
   We choose eco-friendly fabrics and processes that minimize environmental impact, aligning with circular design principles supported by Earth.org.

3. Smarter, Smaller Production
   By keeping production small-batch and local, we reduce overstock and waste — avoiding the fate of unsold garments that often end up discarded, as documented by Reuters.

4. Transparency & Traceability
   We don’t believe in vague eco-claims. Inspired by best practices from the UNEP Sustainable Fashion Initiative, we’re committed to being open about our materials, methods, and impact.

What You Can Do — As a Wearer, Not a Discarder

Sustainability isn’t just on the brands; you have amazing power too. Here are three things you can start doing now:

• Wear it, love it, repair it: Keep your pieces longer, wash less, repair when needed.

• Choose better over more: Fewer, higher-quality pieces beat many cheap ones.

• Pass it on, don’t toss it: When you’re done with something, sell, swap or donate — avoid the landfill.

Why This Matters: The Bigger Picture

Less than 1% of used clothing is recycled into new garments, according to WasteManaged UK. The rest either burns or piles up in landfills across the globe. By choosing high-quality, long-lasting pieces, we reduce this waste, lower carbon footprints, and build wardrobes with intention — not impulse.

Ready to make a change?

Ready to make a change in your wardrobe and the world? Explore our collection and pick pieces that are built with purpose — not just for now, but for years to come. Visit our site and join the movement: Shop LACAUSA Sustainable Essentials.
Because together we can move beyond fast fashion — toward thoughtful fashion.

Thank you for being part of the story. At LACAUSA, we’re not perfect — but we’re committed. Less waste, more meaning.