Maayan Rotnes Cohen

Have you ever wanted to save a couple of dollars, and a couple of tons of carbon emissions? One of the simplest ways to make this difference environmentally is to buy used, and now it’s easier than ever to access.

The fashion industry is historically one of the most carbon-creating industries in the world. Especially with the rise of fast fashion and micro-trends, clothing is being purchased more than ever. However, with this comes a massive carbon footprint, and it creates a culture of consumerism that ultimately is damaging our planet.

Although, with thrift shopping and resale websites on the rise, it has become easier than ever to get anything on the market used. From couches, and clothing to miscellaneous items, almost anything can be purchased used, yet in mint condition.

Generation Z has begun to make thrifting “cool” and “in-style”, which may be one of the greenest fashion trends ever. Thrifting is a way for anyone to slightly alter their shopping habits, and create a global impact.

Research from fashion magazine Elle stated that “According to the , nearly half of Gen Z says they flat-out refuse to shop from fast-fashion and non-sustainable brands.”

Purchasing secondhand is one of the most beneficial trends for the planet and it is only growing. From the Washington Post: “In the past year, roughly half of Americans have bought used clothing, according to GlobalData, a market research firm, a figure expected to rise.”

On a massive scale, it does make a difference for our planet. From the company Thred Up, “buying half of your clothing secondhand is the number one way to reduce your carbon footprint”, (Figure 1).

Thred Up has a 5-minute quiz to see your personal fashion footprint and ways to reduce your impact based on your habits.

For those who may not know how to begin purchasing secondhand items and clothing, some websites where you can begin browsing are Facebook Marketplace, eBay, Poshmark, Depop, and Mercari. For in-person shopping try Goodwill, Savers, or a local antique store.

Next time you need a new shirt, or maybe a new set of dishes, try finding it secondhand, and see what gems you can discover while making an impact.

Citations

Coren, Michael. “Why You Should Buy Everything Used.” The Washington Post, 6 June 2023, www.washingtonpost.com/climate-environment/2023/05/23/buy-resale-store-second-hand-clothes-furniture/.

Donohue, Meg. “Gen Z Is Worried about Climate Change-and Their Shopping Habits Prove It.” ELLE, 7 Apr. 2023, www.elle.com/fashion/shopping/a43496322/secondhand-resale-shopping-trend-climate-change/.

Fashion Footprint Calculator – Thredup, www.thredup.com/fashionfootprint/. Accessed 19 July 2023.