It is clear that clothing and food have a huge impact on our daily lives and the environment. What we wear and what we eat not only affects our health but also the planet. Sustainable consumption means being aware of the choices we make, both in fashion and food, and striving for a healthier, more sustainable future for ourselves and the Earth.
But did you know that as much as 70% of all our clothing and most of the furniture in our homes, such as sofas, curtains, and carpets, contain synthetic materials? According to the Plastic Soup Foundation, about 70% of the clothes in our closets are made from synthetic materials such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic. These materials contribute to the buildup of microplastics in our oceans and rivers, which eventually end up in our bodies. Fashion, therefore, not only affects our appearance but also our health and the planet. (Plastic Soup Foundation)
What are microplastics?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that are smaller than 5 millimeters. They enter our environment from various sources, but one of the largest sources is the fashion industry. The production, wearing, and washing of synthetic clothing causes microplastic fibers to break off and enter the air, water, and our food. This happens even with a single wash: a wash of five kilos of synthetic clothing can release up to nine million microfibers.
These fibers are so small that they slip through water treatment plants and end up in rivers and oceans, where they are absorbed by animals like fish and shellfish. Eventually, these microplastics also end up in our own bodies, through eating seafood or inhalation.
The impact of microplastics is huge. They are not only present in the sea and oceans, but also in freshwater environments, the air, and the soil. Scientists have even found microplastics in the air. All of this coincides with the rise of fast fashion since the early 2000s, which has caused the fashion industry to grow exponentially. Brands like Shein and Primark have rapidly increased the production of clothing, leading to more disposable clothing and pollution. Fast fashion is designed to be produced quickly and cheaply, but this also has negative consequences for the sustainability of the industry.
What can you do to reduce the Impact?
Fortunately, we can all take steps to reduce the amount of microplastics in our environment. Here are a few practical tips that can support both your style and the health of the planet:
Sustainable fashion choices:
- Choose natural materials
Clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton, linen, and wool is a sustainable choice. These materials release far fewer microfibers than synthetic fabrics. When buying new clothing, try to choose materials that are biodegradable and place less burden on the environment. - Limit the number of washes
Every wash releases microfibers. By limiting your washes, you can significantly reduce the impact. Wash clothes only when really necessary and try to wash multiple items together to reduce fiber loss. Washing at lower temperatures also helps prevent fibers from being released quickly. - Fill the drum up
When using the washing machine, try to fill the drum as full as possible. The fuller the drum, the less movement the clothes have, meaning the fibers come off less. This is a simple way to reduce the number of microfibers released. - Invest in a washing machine with microfiber filters
When your washing machine needs replacing, consider investing in a model with a microfiber filter. These filters capture microfibers during washing, preventing them from entering the environment. This is a larger investment, but it can make a big difference in the amount of microplastics you release. - Be aware of your clothing choices
With everything you buy and wear, think about the message you’re sending. What do you want to convey? Sustainable choices in fashion are not only good for the planet but also for your health and well-being. Choose clothing that’s not only stylish but also contributes to a more sustainable future. Sustainable clothing reflects who you are and what you stand for.Just like the choices you make in food. Choose food that gives you energy, instead of comfort food. By consciously choosing local, seasonal, and plant-based products, you contribute to a healthier lifestyle and help the planet. Sustainable consumption is therefore not just about what you wear, but also about what you eat.
Sustainable food choices:
- Choose local and seasonal products
Local and seasonal products have a smaller ecological footprint. They are not transported over long distances and require less energy to grow. This reduces the environmental impact and supports local farmers. - Avoid processed food
Processed products often contain excessive packaging, usually plastic, which contributes to the buildup of microplastics in the environment. Opt for unprocessed and pure foods, which are healthier for your body and better for the planet. - Choose plant-based alternatives
Plant-based foods have a lower ecological footprint than animal products. Growing plants requires less water, energy, and land compared to raising animals. Try replacing meat with plant-based alternatives, such as legumes, nuts, and seeds. - Minimize plastic packaging
While it’s sometimes difficult to completely avoid plastic packaging, try to buy as many bulk products as possible and use reusable bags or containers. This way, you not only avoid plastic waste but also reduce the amount of plastic that ends up in the environment.
Sustainable consumption: fashion and food go hand in hand
Fashion and food go hand in hand when it comes to sustainability. What we wear and what we eat directly affects our health and the health of the planet. By consciously choosing clothing made from natural materials and food free of plastic pollution, we can contribute to a healthier, more sustainable future for ourselves and the planet.
As a personal stylist and vitality coach, I strongly believe in the power of conscious consumption. Sustainable choices not only suit who you are but also align with what you want to convey. Fashion and food can strengthen each other and contribute to a healthier lifestyle, both for yourself and the Earth.
Conclusion: small steps, big Impact
The fashion industry and our food choices have a significant impact on both the planet and our bodies. By consciously choosing sustainable fashion and food, we can limit the amount of microplastics we ingest and contribute to a healthier future. It all starts with small, well-thought-out steps that together make a big difference.
Want to learn more about how to make sustainable choices in both fashion and food? As a personal stylist and vitality coach, I’d love to help you make the right choices for a healthy, sustainable lifestyle. Contact me for a free intake session and discover how I can guide you towards a more sustainable and healthier future!