23
04/2022
The arid lands of the Atacama desert, in northern Chile, have become the setting for an image that seems to be taken from a science fiction novel. In them you can find mountains of second-hand clothes that came from the United States, Canada, Europe and Asia, were discarded for resale and ended up in this open-air landfill emitting toxic gases as they decompose. A true symbol of how throwaway society and extreme consumerism are damaging the planet. And also of inequality: to that place plagued by those who some discarded, others arrive in search of clothes to wear or resell and earn a living.
This clandestine dump has been built up from the discards of the 59,000 tons of clothing that arrive each year in Chile —the largest importer of second-hand clothing in Latin America— through the free zone of the port of Iquique, 1,800 kilometers to the north of Santiago. Most are used items, but there are also some brand new items with the sale tag still on.
@Vintage_Utd Because he has a great attitude, he will be a great example to the younger players on how to act and conduct… https://t.co/rmWYgr1SQ9
— yump Fri Jul 02 23:02:39 +0000 2021
Reports on the textile industry have exposed the high cost of fast fashion, with underpaid workers, claims of child labor and deplorable conditions for mass production. Added to this today are devastating figures on its immense environmental impact, comparable to that of the oil industry. According to a 2019 UN study, the production of clothing in the world doubled between 2000 and 2014, which has made it clear that it is an industry "responsible for 20% of the total waste of water globally". In addition, the manufacture of clothing and footwear generates 8% of greenhouse gases.
You can follow CLIMA Y MEDIO AMBIENTE on Facebook and Twitter, or sign up here to receive our weekly newsletter
Information is the first tool against climate change. Subscribe to her.Subscribe
- 783
- What is fast fashion clothing?
Related Articles
48 Best Kids Watches in 2021 based on 623 reviews
16/05/2022If you are here, we assume that you are looking for the best watches for children. However, given the number of options available in the market, it becomes really daunting to choose the right product...
46 Best Pitchers and Decanters in 2021: According to the Experts
20/04/2022You can get any random Pitchers and Decanters, but if you're looking for expert advice to choose the best one for your needs, then you've come to the right place. No matter which...
39 Best Legumes in 2021: According to the Experts
02/03/2022You can get any random legume, but if you're looking for expert advice to choose the best one for your needs, then you've come to the right place. No matter what your...
Best Camper Kit For Vans 2022 (buying guide)
03/05/2022Technology improvement need only increase the level of competition in each market. Whether it is automobiles or electronic devices, every industry makes the best use of advanced technology...