Is thrift shopping another fad? Is it good for the environment?

We people love trends, and it doesn't take much convincing to follow one.

In demand fast fashion has led to 70% of waste clothing in landfills. A recent study shows that washing clothes made from fast fashion industries create an average of 9 million synthetic microfibers per wash load that enter our waterways systems and enter into oceans in microplastic consumed by marine life.

So, I guess we should look deep into the reality behind trends we tend to follow.

Thrifting which used to be an option for those who couldn't afford to buy new clothes suddenly became a trend. This drastic shift happened during the COVID-19 pandemic – a rise in awareness of sustainability and the ban of fast fashion giants like Shein became a large phenomenon in India.

Thrifting means buying clothes, glass, furniture, and other accessories preloved by someone. Before all the awareness and trends, only Gen-Z and millennials were driven by this way of shopping. Apart from everything, it is important to know whether thrifting is good for the environment or not, especially if you are starting or already on a conscious journey.

Reduce landfills waste: The simple slogan that had been thought to us from elementary school was just not for the saying sake, it's time we apply it too, "Reduce, Reuse, Recycle." Every time you clean your wardrobe and donate or send your clothes to thrifts stores makes a bigger impact on a small level by keeping those clothes out of landfills.

Boost to charities: Second-hand shopping helps to boost community development. It feels great to help the small business & hardworking communities rather than multinational companies which take advantage of the planet and your pocket.

Preserve water: Clothing production takes a lot of time and energy, but fashion industries highly contribute to water consumption and water pollution. So thrift more and save water.

Carbon footprints: Like biking or walking to work instead of driving or taking less time in the shower, even thrifting will require fewer efforts. In a world that never stops shopping, it accelerates more production of clothes. Some industries (fast fashion) consume more energy and resources than we can take from the environment. By thrifting, you can make a small difference in your carbon footprint.

Several myths intercept or create second thoughts in buyers' minds to go for thrift shopping.

• Clothes are dirty
• Thrift shopping takes time
• It is only for poor
• Out of style
• No sizes available

These all are myths for a reason; it's time you step out and give it a try, go out with an open mind, and be surprised to find the things you may like. Thrift for your own and nature's good….  

Keep shopping😊 Happy thrifting!!!