Sustainability (DP IB Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS))

Sustainability

• Sustainability is the use and management of natural resources that allow full natural regeneration of the resources exploited and full recovery of the ecosystems affected by their extraction and use
  

  • Sustainable living involves using resources in a way that allows for their renewal and regeneration

• It is important to manage natural resources in a sustainable manner to avoid depletion, degradation, or destruction of these resources

• Sustainable practices include:

  • Reducing waste (e.g. recycling)

  • Reducing resource use (e.g. reducing water consumption)

  • Conserving energy (e.g. using public transport or cycling, eating locally grown foods )

  • Using renewable resources (e.g. solar or wind power)

  • Protecting biodiversity (e.g. nature reserves)

• Sustainable fashion is a good example of how sustainable practices can be applied to an industry (the clothing industry) that has traditionally been very wasteful, as well as very energy and resource intensive. Fashion and clothing can become more sustainable in several ways, including:

   Use of sustainable materials

• The industry can use more sustainable materials such as organic cotton, hemp, recycled polyester, and lyocell, which have a lower environmental impact

   Circular economy

• The industry can adopt a circular economy model where products are designed to be reused, recycled, or repurposed, reducing waste and extending the life of clothing

   Reduce water usage

• The industry can reduce water usage during clothing production by using more efficient manufacturing processes, and using recycled water where possible

   Sustainable packaging

• The use of sustainable packaging materials such as biodegradable and compostable materials can help reduce waste

   Reduce carbon footprint

• The industry can reduce its carbon footprint by using renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power, and by implementing energy-efficient practices in production

   Ethical production

• Sustainable fashion also involves ethical production practices such as fair labour standards and ensuring worker safety

   Reduce overconsumption

• Consumers can also contribute to sustainable fashion by reducing overconsumption, buying high-quality clothing that lasts longer, and supporting brands that prioritise sustainability

• Overall, sustainable fashion aims to reduce the environmental and social impact of the fashion industry while still providing consumers with fashionable and functional clothing

The fashion industry can be made more sustainable by applying a combination of new approaches and practices