Earth Day 2025: Our Power, Our Planet.
Photo by Marija Zaric on Unsplash
This Earth Day, the theme “Our Power, Our Planet” reminds us that renewable energy is at the heart of climate action. The goal? Triple global renewable electricity by 2030. It’s an urgent call for governments, industries, and individuals to come together - and that includes fashion. Fashion might not be the first sector that comes to mind when we talk about clean energy, but it has a key role to play. From the fields where cotton is grown, to the factories where garments are dyed, sewn, and shipped, the fashion industry is powered by an energy-hungry, fossil-fuel-heavy global machine.
If we want a fairer, cleaner future, fashion needs to plug in differently.
The Energy Behind What We Wear
The fashion industry accounts for an estimated 2–8% of global carbon emissions, with about 70% of that coming from raw material production, fabric processing, and manufacturing - activities still heavily reliant on coal and gas.
And it’s not just production. Over 60% of textiles are synthetic, made from petrochemical-based fibres like polyester. Add in transport, warehousing, and energy-intensive retail spaces, and the emissions linked to a single garment can grow quickly.
Brands Making Moves
Transitioning the fashion industry to renewable energy is crucial for meeting climate targets. Here are some brands that are leading the way:
• Stella McCartney runs EU operations on 100% renewable electricity.
• Patagonia: Powers all operations with renewable energy and supports suppliers in adopting similar practices.
• MUD Jeans: Utilizes renewable energy and energy-saving production techniques, resulting in a 46.6% reduction in CO₂ emissions per pair of jeans. Their circular model includes a take-back scheme and recycling processes.
• Reformation: Purchases Renewable Energy Credits for all facilities and engages in renewable energy projects, aiming to be climate positive by 2025.
• H&M Group: Targets net-zero by 2040, investing in solar power across its supply chain.Time
• M&S: Committed to net-zero by 2040, including Scope 3 emissions.
• Next: Aims for net-zero by 2045, focusing on energy use and supplier partnerships.
• New Look: Working towards net-zero by 2040, incorporating clean energy in UK operations.
Global Shifts in Textile Manufacturing
Countries making strides in adopting renewable energy within the textile industry:
• India and Bangladesh: Solar panel installations on factory rooftops are increasing, supported by brand investments and new financing models.
• Sri Lanka: Companies like MAS Holdings have installed extensive solar panel arrays, saving approximately 18,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually. textilernd.com
• China: Under its “Green Development” policies, China is encouraging energy efficiency and renewable energy adoption in the textile industry, though challenges remain in implementation. Frontiers+1Industrial Decarbonization Accelerator+1
Power to the People
Whether you’re a business or an individual, there are ways to be part of the solution. Clean energy in fashion isn’t just about solar panels - it’s also about consuming less energy overall.
Here’s how you can help:
• Buy secondhand – Keep clothes in circulation and out of landfill.
• Buy less, buy better – Choose timeless, high-quality pieces over throwaway trends.
• Rent instead of buy – Perfect for occasionwear or trying something new.
• Repair and rewear – Learn to love what you already own.
• Support responsible brands – Look for clear climate commitments, not just vague promises.
These small shifts reduce demand, cut emissions, and signal to brands that sustainability matters.
Let’s be honest, fashion has a long way to go. But momentum is building. Businesses are starting to act. People are asking more from their clothes. And Earth Day is a reminder that change is not only possible - it’s necessary.
At Our Fashion Fix, we work with fashion businesses to rethink impact, embrace circularity, and chart a more conscious path forward. If your brand wants to join the transition, we’re here to help.
The future of fashion depends on how we power it. And the power to change? That’s ours.