Every year, households, businesses, and public services generate between 2.1 and 2.3 billion tons of municipal solid waste, including packaging, electronics, plastics, and food. However, waste management systems around the world are struggling to keep up. With 2.7 billion people lacking access to proper waste collection, only 61-62% of waste is managed in controlled facilities. Immediate action is needed to tackle this growing crisis.On 30 March 2025, the world marked International Day of Zero Waste, with a special focus on fashion and textiles. Elisa Tonda, Chief of the Resources and Markets Branch at the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), discussed five key strategies to make the fashion industry more sustainable.
Creating a more sustainable, circular fashion industry: The private sector must take responsibility by designing long-lasting, repairable, and recyclable products while adopting circular business models that reduce waste and promote sustainability. Governments must also play a key role by enforcing policies that support recycling, regulate harmful chemicals, and encourage sustainable practices.
Enhance textile recycling methods: Only 1% of fibers for new apparel and textiles come from recycled materials. To boost recycling, Tonda suggests investing in textile waste collection infrastructure, expanding recycling programs, and implementing extended producer responsibility. Brands should also design recyclable garments with sustainable fabrics and eliminate harmful chemicals.
Eliminate harmful chemicals from garments: Over 15,000 chemicals are used in textile manufacturing, some of which are hazardous and persist in the environment, harming humans and wildlife. Tonda advocates for government regulation of these chemicals and urges brands to use eco-friendly materials. Proper garment care, microfibre shedding data, and effective filters are also crucial.
Challenge the mindset – New is not always better: The fashion industry, driven by powerful marketing, promotes overconsumption. Clothing production doubled from 2000 to 2015, while garment use dropped by 36%. UNEP and UN Climate Change urge industry figures to promote sustainability, curb overproduction, and encourage longer garment use. Governments can help by mandating environmental impact disclosures.
Shop less, shop better: While governments and businesses should lead the push for sustainable fashion, Tonda emphasizes that consumers play a crucial role. She suggests shopping from wardrobes, supporting circular models, repairing clothes, and choosing sustainable, high-quality items. By making informed choices, consumers can drive change and influence industry practices.
