How much clothing is too much? The maths behind having a sustainable wardrobe

The average person owns around 200 items of clothing, but many of these items may never be worn, instead contributing to the staggering environmental costs of the fashion industry. The production, transportation, and disposal of clothing all have a significant impact on the environment, with the average garment producing around 20 kilograms of CO2 emissions per year. As consumers become increasingly aware of the environmental implications of their fashion choices, the concept of a 'sustainable wardrobe' is gaining traction. By adopting a more mindful approach to clothing consumption, individuals can significantly reduce their environmental footprint and contribute to a more sustainable fashion industry. This involves not only reducing the number of new clothes purchased but also extending the life of existing items through repair, repurposing, and swapping with others. By applying mathematical models to estimate the environmental impact of different wardrobe scenarios, researchers and consumers can make more informed choices about their fashion habits and work towards creating a more sustainable fashion industry.