What is the carbon footprint reduction from extending clothing life?

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Extending Clothing Life Significantly Reduces Carbon Footprint

Extending the lifespan of garments by approximately nine months can lead to a reduction in their carbon footprint by an estimated 20 to 30 percent. This practice is gaining traction as a crucial strategy within the fashion industry to address environmental concerns, with both established brands and new ventures modernising and offering repair and alteration services.
Impact of Extended Garment Lifespan on Emissions

The fashion industry is a significant contributor to global pollution, with millions of tons of clothing discarded annually. A key finding indicates that if clothing items are kept in use for an additional nine months, the environmental impact, specifically the carbon footprint, can be decreased substantially. This reduction, estimated between 20 and 30 percent, highlights the potent effect of prolonging the life of apparel.
Rise of Modernised Repair and Alteration Services

In response to the growing awareness of eco-responsibility, garment repair and alteration services are experiencing a resurgence. Companies are now embracing and modernising these once-commonplace practices. For instance, the London-based startup Sojo operates on a model similar to food delivery services, allowing customers to have their clothes picked up by a courier for professional repair and then returned. This approach simplifies the process for individuals who may lack the time or skills for DIY repairs.
Industry Adoption and Partnerships

This trend is not limited to independent startups. Brands are also beginning to integrate repair services into their offerings. Sojo, for example, has partnered with the brand Ganni, enabling Ganni customers to receive free repairs or alterations on previous orders. Other platforms and companies globally, such as Les Réparables in France, and established brands like Veja and Patagonia, are also offering their own repair initiatives, signalling a broader industry shift towards sustainability through longevity.

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What is the carbon footprint reduction from extending clothing life?

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