Kathlene Whalen
Center Editor
    As a consumer in today’s society, I often feel overwhelmed by the immense amount of apparel in the market. Who wears it all? What becomes of it when it has been worn out? How is it made? And what effect does that have on the environment? These are just a few of the questions that have prompted mindful consumers everywhere to take an interest in the growing industry for sustainable clothing.  

    Many of the textiles used in conventional garments have a significant negative environmental impact. However, organic cotton, hemp, bamboo, and recycled fleece are alternatives that rival their less eco-friendly counterparts. Cotton grown using organic methods needs no harmful pesticides (which run into streams and oceans), is safer for workers, and is the most widely used environmentally-friendly textile on the market. Hemp is another material that is considered environmentally friendly because hemp plants grow quickly and densely without needing any fertilizers. In addition, hemp fibers are long lasting and require minimal processing. Bamboo, like hemp, grows profusely with no need for fertilization and the resulting cloth is biodegradable. Furthermore, recycled fleece uses plastic bottles instead of raw petroleum for its production. 

    Finding these materials is less of a challenge due to the increasing number of brands incorporating them into their clothing. American Apparel, already known for their sweatshop-free labor, launched a line of 100% organic cotton tees last year. H&M is increasing its selection for both men and women with tops, pants, outerwear, and sleepwear made from organic cotton, recycled wool, and recycled polyester. Available in all H&M stores, the garments are marked with a special tag. Both Quiksilver and its sister company, Roxy, have recently unveiled their eco-friendly lines, which include jeans, tees, and hoodies. Volcom’s V.Co-Logical series uses organic cotton, vegetable dyes, organic stains, hemp, and low-impact methods of production. Rainbow Sandals now makes a line of flip-flops using hemp in place of leather. Levi’s, Paige Premium, Del Forte, and many other brands carry organic denim, and active wear company Patagonia leads the way in the concept of recycled clothing. 

    Of course, these are options for those who want to green-up their closet when buying new clothes. However, one person’s trash may be another’s treasure. Great unique and vintage clothes can be purchased at thrift and consignment shops. Crossroads Trading Co. is a consignment store with locations in fairly close proximity to Valley Fair Mall and Oakridge Mall. Crossroads sells gently used clothes ranging from Forever 21 to designer brands. This kind of shopping has a minimal impact on the environment as you save yet another t-shirt from entering the 68 pounds of clothing and textiles that the average American throws in the trash each year. 

    Buying sustainable clothing is another way to be a more mindful consumer and reduce your impact. Shopping with the planet in mind takes a little extra effort, but every dollar you spend supporting environmentally friendly apparel is the equivalent of voting for it to become more mainstream. Go ahead and wear your beliefs on your sleeve…green is the new black.