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Are you an enterprise or professional looking to buy/sell leftover materials? Join our b2b marketplace
In the world of fashion, where trends change rapidly and new styles emerge every season, there is a hidden environmental cost that often goes unnoticed: microplastic pollution. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that pose a significant threat to our environment and ecosystems. The fashion industry, particularly through the use of synthetic materials like polyester, plays a major role in the release of microplastics into the environment. However, by choosing sustainable materials, including alternatives to polyester like leather, we can make a positive impact and help combat this issue.
Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5mm in size, often invisible to the naked eye. They come from various sources, including the fragmentation of larger plastic items, industrial processes, and the shedding of synthetic fibers. These tiny particles find their way into the environment, particularly water bodies, where they pose a grave threat to marine life and ecosystems.
The fashion industry heavily relies on synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and acrylic due to their affordability, durability, and versatility. However, these materials have a hidden downside. Every time we wash our clothes made from synthetic fibers, thousands of microplastic particles are released into the water supply. These particles are too small to be effectively filtered by wastewater treatment plants, allowing them to enter rivers, lakes, and oceans.
Among the synthetic fabrics, polyester stands out as a major contributor to microplastic pollution. Polyester is a petroleum-based material that takes hundreds of years to decompose naturally. As we wash polyester garments, the friction and heat cause the release of microfibers, which are essentially tiny plastic threads. These microfibers not only contaminate water bodies but also find their way into the air we breathe.
Marine animals, from the tiniest zooplankton to the largest whales, are directly affected by microplastic pollution. These particles can be ingested by marine organisms, leading to internal injuries, malnutrition, and even death. Additionally, microplastics can accumulate toxic substances from the surrounding environment, which further increases the risk to marine life.
Microplastics have also infiltrated the food chain, potentially endangering human health. Fish, shellfish, and other seafood can consume microplastics, which may then be consumed by humans. The long-term effects of ingesting these particles are still being studied, but they have the potential to cause harm and disrupt delicate ecosystems.
To address the issue of microplastic pollution, the fashion industry and consumers alike must shift towards more sustainable materials. Sustainable fabrics offer an alternative to synthetic fibers, reducing the release of microplastics and the environmental impact associated with their production and disposal.
Sustainable fabrics include natural fibers like cotton, linen, hemp, and silk, which are biodegradable and have a lower environmental footprint compared to synthetics. Additionally, innovative materials such as Tencel, made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, provide an eco-friendly alternative to traditional fabrics.
While synthetic materials are a significant source of microplastic pollution, it’s important to consider the impact of alternatives like leather. The leather industry, when managed responsibly, can provide a sustainable material option. Opting for leather products that are produced with environmentally friendly processes and sourced from responsible suppliers can be a conscious choice towards reducing microplastic pollution.
Consumers play a vital role in driving change within the fashion industry. By making informed decisions and supporting sustainable fashion practices, we can collectively reduce the release of microplastics and encourage a more environmentally conscious approach to clothing consumption.
When shopping for clothing and accessories, it’s essential to research brands that prioritize sustainability. Look for certifications and labels that indicate the use of sustainable materials and ethical manufacturing practices. By supporting responsible brands, we can send a clear message that sustainability matters.
Beyond material choices, supporting sustainable fashion also involves extending the lifespan of our clothes. Embrace the concept of a circular economy by repairing, reusing, and recycling garments. Buying secondhand or vintage clothing not only reduces the demand for new items but also adds a unique touch to your personal style.
Making the switch to sustainable materials requires conscious decision-making. Here are some steps you can take to ensure your fashion choices align with environmental sustainability:
Look for Certifications and Labels: Seek out clothing items with certifications like Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS), Responsible Down Standard (RDS), or Fair Trade Certified to ensure they meet specific sustainability criteria.
Choose Natural Fibers and Recycled Fabrics: Opt for clothing made from natural fibers like organic cotton or recycled materials such as polyester made from recycled plastic bottles.
Consider Secondhand and Vintage Options: Explore thrift stores, consignment shops, and online platforms for pre-loved clothing. These options not only reduce waste but can also provide unique fashion finds.
Microplastic pollution resulting from the fashion industry’s use of synthetic materials is a pressing environmental issue. By understanding the impact of microplastics, exploring sustainable fabric alternatives, and adopting conscious consumerism, we can collectively make a difference. Let’s prioritize the purchase of sustainable materials, including leather produced through responsible practices, to reduce microplastic release and promote a healthier planet.
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Shipping time and costs depending on the product you are going to purchase especially if it is a product that is made to order.
We honor return requests made within 14 days after receiving the original purchase.
Zerow accepts returns of unworn, unwashed, and undamaged items, with no signs of use, for refund. Please note that customized, personalized and exchanged products cannot be returned.
Returns must be packaged in the Zerow box, which must be securely sealed with adhesive tape. In case our box is no longer available, you may use another type of packaging suitable for the shipment of our items.
If the original order was below the 150€ threshold for free shipping the shipping fee will be excluded from the refund. If a partial return brings the total amount paid below 150€, the shipping amount will be deducted from the refund according to your local shipping rate.
Did you buy a bag and over time it got damaged ?
Offering aftercare, post-purchase services has always been a priority for Zerow, that’s why if some of the products you bought on our platform deteriorate or break, Zero’s team is ready to pick up, reset and send them back to you.
Possible refunds and exchanges will be processed within 14 working days upon the arrival into our warehouse.
It means that there is no stock for that particular product. It will be manufactured only once the order is placed. This helps the reduction of wasted materials and resources.
You can find the ‘Crafting time’ in the description of the product.
How long is the lead time for a made-to-order product ?
It depends on each brand. If you want to know the specific lead time contact us we’ll let you know as soon as we can !
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Zerolab stands for Zero Waste. We are a community of companies, artisans, designers and people who love sustainable products. We offer a marketplace where you can buy upcycled products and leftovers and a circular network made to connect companies and artisans for transforming waste into products.
Zerolab is part of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation community.
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