By Chris KONEY
In recent times, sustainability has become a widely used term across various industries. Sustainability presumes that resources are finite, and should be used conservatively and wisely with a view to long-term priorities and consequences of the ways in which they are used. Sustainable practices support ecological, human and economic health and vitality.
In the fashion sector, sustainability refers to items of clothing made taking the human and environmental impacts of production into account to support a more just supply chain. Then we have Eco-fashion, which is mainly about reducing environmental damage by using organic materials and minimising waste. Sustainable fashion takes a broader approach, looking also at social issues such as fair working conditions and timeless designs
On Saturday, October 19, 2024, the European Union in Ghana, in collaboration with its key stakeholders and partners, will be hosting an event dubbed ‘Ride with Team Europe’ under the theme ‘Promoting A Sustainable Culture through Cycling, Fashion and Arts’ and aimed at promoting awareness about sustainability.
The much-anticipated cycling event will commence at 6am at the Independence Square and end at Alliance Française. It will be followed by a special Sustainable Fashion Show with top Ghanaian brands, creative designers and models expected to hit the runway in unique pieces.
This fashion show will highlight the essence of eco-conscious style, merging innovation with sustainability with designs crafted from recycled, upcycled and responsibly sourced materials. In addition, the show aims to inspire a new wave of fashion that respects both creativity and the environment.
One of Ghana’s creative brains and Founder of Peema Allan, Anita Allantias, will be spearheading the fashion show. The Creative Director of the authentic Afrocentric clothing brand that caters for men and women is passionate about using fashion as a medium for change to express individuality, boost confidence and inspire positivity.
Speaking about her participation in the event, an excited Anita indicated that sustainable fashion aims to minimise the negative impact of the fashion industry on the environment, promote fair labour practices, create products and also underscores a dedication to responsible resourcing.
She added: “On the runway, each piece tells a story of mindful consumption, advocating for a future where fashion thrives without compromising the planet. It’s more than a showcase, it’s a movement toward a sustainable and stylish future.
Sustainable fashion is clearly the solution to the environmental and social issues caused by fast fashion today. By considering the entire lifecycle of a garment, sustainable fashion will minimise the negative impacts on the environment and society”
In addition to the bicycle riding and sustainable fashion show, there will be several events to promote sustainability and well-being. These include arts and photo exhibitions, fun games, live music and other forms of entertainment. Another major attraction will be the special food court that will be offering healthy sustainable meals.
The European Union’s strategy for sustainable and circular textiles is to create a greener textiles sector. The aim is a major shift inside the industry and among consumers, creating a whole new sustainable ecosystem for textiles by the end of this decade.
The new approach looks at the entire lifecycle of textiles and proposes actions to change the way we produce and consume textiles. It means that all textile products must be durable, repairable and recyclable. Profitable re-use and repair services will be widely available, and producers will take responsibility for their products along the supply chain.
>>>the writer is a thought leader in Marketing Communications, Stakeholder Relationship Management Professional and International Cooperation Specialist. Over the last fifteen (15) years, he has made tremendous impact within Africa’s corporate communications and creative arts sectors. He can be reached at [email protected] / +233 20 854 1480
