Editorial: Liberation

• Global textile production has doubled in two decades.
• The textile sector is responsible for 10% of greenhouse gas production.
• Fashion giant Shein has multiplied its sales tenfold in three years.
• There is an overconsumption of affordable, low-quality clothing.
• Fast fashion practices are not socially or ecologically sustainable.
• People from lower and middle classes are often blamed for environmental issues caused by the fashion industry.
• The debate on economic regulation of the fashion industry is on the political agenda.

Conclusion: The unchecked growth of the fast fashion industry has serious environmental and social consequences. However, the focus should not be on blaming consumers, but on establishing effective economic regulation for the industry.

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