Fashion with Impact: Refash's Sustainable Swap, Thrift & Sip Event

Sustainable shopping and responsible consumption represent an important balance between the trends of overconsumption and throwaway culture. Reusing even a single garment can significantly lessen the strain on our planet's resources while reducing waste and landfill burdens. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation reports that every second, the equivalent of a rubbish truck load of clothes is burnt or buried in landfills. According to a BBC news article, a report by WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Program) in the UK says that if we extend the use of clothing by just nine months, we could reduce the annual carbon and water footprints of clothing by 20-30%.

In our ongoing efforts to reduce waste and encourage reuse, as well as mindful consumption, we at Refash organised a two-day sustainable Swap, Thrift & Sip event at the eco-friendly Greenr Cafe in Delhi on July 26th and 27th. Swap and thrift events are designed with a dual purpose: to extend the lifespan of clothing in a continuous loop and to offer a fun, engaging way to reduce waste. By participating in these activities, individuals can creatively renew their wardrobes while actively contributing to sustainability efforts.

This event promoted a community-based approach to sustainable fashion. Swap events provide a valuable space for people to come together and exchange clothing in an environmentally friendly manner. On this special occasion, participants had the opportunity for a sustainable wardrobe refresh to swap old garments on a one-to-one basis for new-to-them pieces, by keeping quality clothes out of landfills and in circulation. The thrift option featured a curated selection of quality pre-loved clothing in different styles and sizes, each handpicked and rigorously quality-checked. Both of our swap and thrift events fostered a successful community vibe, uniting conscious consumers who share a commitment to sustainability.

Building a green community, reducing waste, and maximising responsible consumption are essential for mindful buying practices that contribute to a sustainable lifestyle. We are excited about organising more events like these to strengthen eco-friendly practices and build a sustainable community, raising awareness and creating opportunities to engage in a collective, planet-friendly system.

A Guardian report from January 2024 titled 'It’s the Industry’s Dirty Secret: Why Fashion’s Oversupply Problem Is an Environmental Disaster,' highlights production of 80 billion to 150 billion garments yearly, with more than 10% remaining unsold. This represents an alarming 8 to 60 billion excess garments each year. A small step towards slow consumption can lead to a larger conscious impact that benefits both people and the environment.

Did you know? Reusing or upcycling garments requires no additional resources, making it an eco-friendly choice. In contrast, producing new textiles is a major environmental challenge, responsible for 20% of global clean water pollution, according to the European Parliament. By opting for sustainable fashion practices, it helps minimise the ecological footprint and help preserve our planet's valuable resources. 🌿♻️