Why investing in quality pieces is the best way for sustainability

The environmental impact of consumerism has been much publicised in recent years, not least thanks to incredible documentaries such as David Attenborough's Blue Planet II. In fact, these issues being highlighted has started to have a positive impact - a 2018 survey revealed that 88% of people who watched the BBC documentary took action to change their lifestyle.

Changes in attitude are vital. For example, Oxfam research in September 2019 highlighted the huge problem buying new clothes in the UK has, with a bigger impact on carbon emissions each minute than it would take to drive around the world six times.

Spending a small amount of money on a poor quality item will cost far more, in many ways, in the long run. When a cheap item breaks, wears down or becomes damaged, it will need to be replaced. Choosing to spend a little more on a quality product will not only save you money as it will need to be replaced far less often, you'll also be avoiding creating a carbon footprint that is morally, ethically and environmentally troubling.

Of course, high price doesn't always necessarily mean a high quality product, so you'll need to do a little research to ensure you're getting the best quality possible. The extra effort is always worth it in the long run.

Another smart way to shop sustainably is to look at quality second-hand products. For instance, you'll discover amazing preloved Levis products in vintage boutiques and second-hand stores that will last a lifetime. Poor quality jeans from fast fashion brands have a very short shelf life, and will be thrown away, adding to a cycle of wastefulness.

You don't need to break the bank to invest in quality pieces, either. Instead of opting for a cheap high street timepiece because you're unable to afford a Rolex - there are amazing retailers specialising in pre-owned designer watches that will last a lifetime.

Bringing issues surrounding sustainable consumerism and the environmental impact of fast fashion to the fore has encouraged a real shift in consumer attitude. This has paved the way for a number of brands to thrive in this sustainable landscape.

Brands focusing on sustainability are taking the fashion world by storm - just a handful include:

• AllBirds - their sneakers are made from materials such as sugarcane and recycled water bottles

• TALA - the products of this activewear brand are 92% upcycled, all packaging is recyclable and the tags are even plantable!

• Stay Wild - this swimwear brand is specifically committed to addressing the issues faced by ocean plastic pollution which means their products are made from unwanted waste such as fishing nets and scraps of fabric left over from the fashion industry

• Alternative Apparel - this clothing brand focuses on using eco fabrics to create their soft, comfortable products

Once you start searching for ways to invest in quality pieces for your wardrobe and collection of accessories, you'll discover that it makes an incredible amount of sustainable sense. Making small changes and building up to bigger differences can make a massive difference in the long run - for your bank balance, the environment, and also for your social conscience.

This article does not necessarily reflect the opinions of the editors or management of EconoTimes