Frida Rose Gaspar

When researching the latest information gracing the fashion industry, it can be overwhelming to see new collections dropping every other minute. Our susceptibility to influence is only increasing in our hyper-consumerist world. Often statistical research can be confusing or too complicated for the average reader. When the research is incomprehensible to the audience that needs it the most, how can we expect people to learn about the consequences of the textile industry? Specifically speaking to climate change, I came across an article from Moral Fibers, a sustainable living blog. Their article on Textile Waste Infographics by Wendy Graham offers great insight into understanding informative visuals. 

Graham uses 5 examples of infographics in which she found the research to be easily digestible to the reader. Knowing that an important aspect of communication is engagement, making sure that the information is conveyed correctly is so important. Without the connection from the researcher to the audience, it can be seemingly impossible to persuade audiences to act. I appreciated how Graham utilized multiple platforms to find these infographics from various artists and writers. Her five examples are just the tip of the iceberg in terms of activists using their talents to spread the message of textile waste. However, they provide great insight into how communication professionals should interact with their specific audiences. 

In Graham’s article, the “Fast Fashion in Numbers” infographic from Fashion Revolution highlights the environmental impact of fast fashion on our Planet. The simple graphics that correlate with their information provide an easy guide for the reader to follow. As well, as allowing them to correlate physical numbers with concepts such as clothing and water consumption. Another infographic that highly resonated with me within this article was the “Ethical Shopping Decision Tree” by Elizabeth Stilwell. This infographic is such a clear-cut way to pull in audience members through an interactive format. Additionally, it tackles important aspects of consumerism, such as the concept of want and need. 

When considering textile waste from a broad context, the topic can be daunting and confusing. It is crucial to ensure we are receiving accurate information that is relevant to these concerns, as questions about unjust worker compensation and climate change continue to plague this industry and weigh disproportionately on consumers. If you are interested in reading more on these specific infographics, be sure to check out the Moral Fibers article. The important fact that the textile industry contributes significantly to carbon emissions and global warming is effectively brought home through an abundance of imaginative infographics; the trick is finding the ones that most appeal to you. 

By Frida Rose Gaspar