ENVIRONMENTAL DISASTER CALLED FASHION.

With millions of low cost workers seeing the new tariffs being introduced by the Trump administration the whole industry of fashion is once again highlighted for the main reason of its drastic affect on these millions of poor workers. . The environmental impact of jewellery is often left out of the ongoing discussion about fast fashion. Recent events have shone a light on the deeply problematic systems behind the manufacturing of clothes, particularly regarding the conditions of garment workers. Unfortunately, the human rights violations and shocking treatment of the planet’s natural resources do not stop at clothing. Tens of thousands of African, Asian and South American adults and children work in gold mines to try and escape poverty. The lack of sufficient health and safety measures injures and kills a large number of them, from explosions and collapsing of tunnels. They are exposed to a high level of noise, harsh chemicals, reduced ventilation and are constantly at risk of serious long-term health problems.  The environmental impact of mining is equally as tragic, the toxic waste filled with cyanide is poured straight into natural waters, destroying aquatic life, and the mercury used to recover small pieces of gold is burned straight into the atmosphere. It’s important to consider that pearls can be ethically sourced. But as with all fashion, the higher the demand, the more unsustainable the practices. And there’s a pretty high demand for more fast fashion as mainly western societies but increasingly eastern as well devour and cast off clothes and ancillary items without a thought for the consequences. The tariffs will certainly bring this whole sad industry into focus.

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