Clothing Swap

The Outdoor Intellect hosted a clothing swap to address the environmental impact of fast fashion. With it being more prominent than ever, it's essential to understand its implications. It puts a strain not only on the workers being put in inhumane conditions and forced to work for a few dollars a day but also puts a strain on our oceans. When you think you're doing a good thing by donating clothes, you unknowingly send most of those clothes as waste to third-world countries where they get sold. Anything that isn't sold gets thrown into places with open ocean access. Unfortunately, the ocean waves consume these clothes, which harms marine life and their ecosystem. 


With this understanding, you might wonder where to send your unwanted clothes.

The answer?

A clothing swap! This communal activity not only allows you to pass on clothes you no longer need but also gives you the chance to refresh your wardrobe with items brought by others. In addition to protecting marine life, a clothing swap also saves energy. If someone has a piece you've been eyeing, you don't have to go out and buy it, saving gas (especially if you order online) and reducing the demand for production. 


The Outdoor Intellect x Inspire STEM had a great turnout at the clothing swap. Thank you to Citizen's Climate Lobby for supporting this event and to everyone who came by and volunteered or dropped off clothes. I will donate the remaining clothes to women's shelters and low-income schools.


 

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