Global Fallout of Fast Fashion

The Global Fallout of Fast Fashion

What is the impact of high consumtion, labor-intensive industries like fashion in developing and low income countries?

Graphics by Samantha Low $11m

$11m

tons of US clothing waste ends up in landfills on average every year tons of US clothing waste ends up in landfills on average every year

50%

of the worlds largest landfills are in south and central america

50%

of the worlds largest landfills are in south and central america

Photo courtesy of Sharat Chowdhury

In 2013 over 1,100 died and left 2,500 injured in a garment factory collapse. Concerns were raised about the buildings stability over a year prior

60%

of world clothing exports come from developing countries

A garment factory fire in Pakistan kills over 300 in 2012

In Ghana a landfill has grown so large it forms a “cliff” on the beach. An estimated 70% of it is clothing waste imported back to Ghana.

Photo courtusy of Axel Drainville

In Ghana a landfill has grown so large it forms a “cliff” on the beach. An estimated 70% of it is clothing waste imported back Sources: Journal of Cleaner Production to Ghana. Spring 2022 · by Samantha Low 27