Bending the Arc

We are living in a time of unprecedented environmental degradation, from climate change to massive plastic waste to loss of biodiversity and more. The choices made by older generations have led to environmental and public health consequences that will be more harmful to younger generations. Transitions away from dirty sources of energy and excessive materialism are required and well-informed young adults are leading efforts for change. 

A recent article by Michael Hayek, a high school student at University School in Hunting Valley, Ohio, is titled “Worn Once, Wasted Forever: The Hidden Cost of Fast Fashion.” He explains how the garment industry has chosen profits over responsible products for years. Textile businesses have been creating lower quality clothing from low cost (and well-subsidized) oil and gas. Polyester is the most common synthetic fabric and is used to manufacture clothes that have become known as “fast fashion.” Michael’s article states “Since many fast fashion garments are cheaply made, consumers are able to purchase [them] more easily, turning clothing into a disposable product rather than a lasting necessity.”

The article describes the pollution created by the fast fashion culture. “As massive corporations flood stores and the internet with new styles each week, millions of garments are discarded after only a handful of wears. This constant cycle of overproduction and waste releases harmful dyes and synthetic fibers into the environment.” The textiles made from the synthetic materials are also used for carpeting, window and furniture covers, stuffed animals, blankets and much more. All of these materials create a pollution problem. “As synthetic garments are discarded, burned, or broken down over time, they emit microplastics and chemical residues creating irreversible impacts on the air, soil, and water.”

Michael states that “The younger generation is stepping up to take action against fashion corporations, holding them accountable and calling for immediate reform.” But Michael’s generation did not create this culture of fast fashion. It will take sincere effort by all to change purchasing habits to address the fast fashion problem. 

The above is shared by Julie Peller, a chemistry professor and climate researcher at Valparaiso University, in her weekly emailings. There are plenty of others who warn that fashion is one of the most environmentally destructive industries on the planet. 

How did things get so bad? 

Read this January 2026 article from The Nation - “What Your Cheap Clothes Cost the Planet.”