Fast-fashion retailers like Zara, Shein and H&M are using resale platforms to reduce their carbon footprints, but the programs are projected to do little to reduce emissions, a new study released Tuesday found.
The study analyzed five brand archetypes, spanning fast fashion to premium apparel, and how reselling previously owned items could affect their overall carbon emissions between 2023 and 2040.
It found that fast-fashion retailers, which create about 11.5 kilograms (25.3 pounds) of carbon dioxide for every item they make, will only reduce their emissions by 0.7% with resale programs.
Outdoor brands, like Patagonia and the North Face, create about 12.5 kilograms of CO2 per item and could reduce emissions by 15.8%, according to the study.
Ruben said it takes a lot of work for fast-fashion retailers to implement resale programs, but "you're not getting a lot of juice for the squeeze."
Persons:
Andy Ruben, Tory Burch, Ralph Lauren, they're, Ruben, you've
Organizations:
Trove, Deloitte, McKinsey, University of California, CNBC, Outdoor, U.S . Securities, Exchange Commission
Locations:
Guangzhou, China, Brazil, Zara, Shein, Berkeley, Patagonia, reselling