https://doi.org/10.15255/KUI.2024.037
Published: Kem. Ind. 74 (3-4) (2025) 139–150
Paper reference number: KUI-37/2024
Paper type: Review
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Fast Fashion, Long-term Consequences: An Analysis of the Environmental Impact of the Textile Industry

H. Hartmann, V. Stepan, B. Prusac, S. Begović and M. Miloloža

Abstract

The textile industry significantly impacts the environment with fibres such as polyester and cotton, along with various processing methods, forming the basis of pollution. Polyester, the most common textile fibre, harms the environment due to its non-degradable nature and use of fossil fuels, specifically oil, for its production. While cotton possesses excellent properties, its cultivation often involves the use of fertilisers and pesticides that pollute water and soil. Textile processing, particularly wet processing, requires vast amounts of water and energy, generating substantial quantities of wastewater rich in chemicals and dyes. If untreated, such waste streams significantly pollute water and soil. Furthermore, microplastics from textiles, especially those released during clothes washing, pose an increasing problem with severe consequences for aquatic ecosystems. The use of detergents exacerbates these issues, contributing to the eutrophication and increased ecotoxicity of water bodies. Fast fashion, characterised by short clothing life cycles, generates large quantities of textile waste, placing additional strain on the environment. On the other hand, slow fashion offers a more sustainable alternative by focusing on the production of smaller quantities of higher-quality textile products. To mitigate the negative environmental impact of the textile industry, stricter regulations and sustainable practices are essential. Addressing these issues requires an integrated approach that includes reducing resource consumption, improving wastewater treatment, promoting sustainable materials and production processes, and educating consumers about the environmental consequences of their choices. To support these efforts, numerous regulations have been introduced, aiming to promote sustainable and circular management of textile waste.

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International License

Keywords

textile industry, wet processing, microplastic fibres, detergents, fast fashion, slow fashion