Going in circles? – Sustainability in Fashion

Globally, the fashion industry is the second most polluting industry after the oil and gas sector. This sector, particularly through fast fashion, contributes massively, not only to greenhouse gas emissions but also to water usage and pollution. We will explore these aspects and discuss shocking examples.

Libby’s research expertise has transitioned from working on boats and looking at plastic pollution in our oceans, to now investigating the washing of our clothes. During this talk Libby will demonstrate how these two areas of research are linked within our home.

One person’s waste is another person’s treasure – the magic of upcyling and creatively turning waste into treasures. Key questions addressed in this talk surround fashion waste and what can be done in order reduce this key issue, not only from an individual, but also from an industry level. The talk will explore the meaning of upcycling and it’s unique opportunities.

How can the bacteria we find in food influence the clothing of the future, and can it really help with the mess we find ourselves in with fast fashion, microplastics and environmental pollution? Is it true that we can actually ‘grow’ this fabric at home at the same time as making a cup of tea? Come and find out if microbes are going to save the world and create the fashion of the future!

Digitalisation in the realm of alternative business models poses challenges to their development, owing to the complex infrastructure and the inadequacy of technological capabilities in the industry. Blockchain technology offers a promising solution by increasing transparency, trust, and security while reducing costs. Fashion rental businesses harness blockchain to overcome their limitations to overcome their limitations. I will be discussing the emerging technologies essential to achieve sustainability while keeping pace with emerging trends in fashion.