Final answer:
The fashion industry is criticized for its environmental impact and unethical labor practices. There's a growing demand for sustainability and accountability in fashion. Brands are responding with commitments to sustainable practices and reducing emissions.
Step-by-step explanation:
The fashion industry is increasingly being scrutinized for its substantial environmental impact. It is the second-largest consumer of water globally and is responsible for nearly 10% of global carbon emissions. This is more than the combined emissions from all international flights and maritime shipping. Additionally, the production of clothing has a high environmental cost due to processes that release harmful chemicals and the use of plastics in packaging and materials that are not biodegradable.
Beyond the environmental cost, the fast fashion industry has also been criticized for unethical labor practices. Workers are often mistreated, with apparel companies pushing for lower costs and faster production, leading to sweatshop conditions. There is a growing public demand for better buying habits and corporate accountability in fashion production.
Some brands are responding to this demand for sustainability. Inditex, the owner of Zara, plans to use sustainable or recycled materials for all clothes by 2025. The Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, launched at COP24, aims to achieve net zero emissions for the fashion industry, illustrating a commitment to pursuing systemic change.