Zero-waste fashion
Zero-waste fashion refers to a fashion design strategy that generates little or no textile waste during the production process, particularly focusing on the pattern making and cutting stages.[1][2][3][4] It is a reaction to the high amount of discarded clothing items going into landfill around the world.[5][6][7]
Zero-waste fashion strategies can be categorized under two general approaches: pre-consumer zero-waste fashion, which eliminates waste during manufacture, and post-consumer zero-waste fashion, which generates clothing from existing materials such as second-hand clothing[8] and elements or textiles made from other discarded consumer products. Historically, zero-waste designs have been utilised in folk clothing, including the kimono, sari, and chiton, among others.[9]
Waste elimination hierarchy[edit]
The waste hierarchy consists of the three 'R's' - Reduce, Reuse, Recycle - in order of impact. Zero-waste fashion design reduces or even eliminates pre-consumer textile waste. However, it does not necessarily address waste created during the use life and disposal phase of the garment's life cycle.
During textile production, many pollutants are emitted into the environment. The textile and apparel industry are some of the most polluting, and both have a low recycling rate of about 15%. Zero-waste fashion design could significantly reduce gaseous emissions during the production process and help to reuse material waste.[29]
Limitations[edit]
While zero-waste fashion design methods offer sustainability benefits, they also face limitations. Variations in aesthetic appearances between sizes, increased production time, and challenges in documentation are some of the notable concerns. Informing customers about size variations, exploring ways to lower costs, and improving documentation practices can address these limitations. Continued research and innovation are important to overcome these limitations and advance sustainability practices in the fashion industry.[30]