The textile industry is responsible for 4% to 8%
of global greenhouse gas emissions.
Comment la France veut-elle réduire l’impact environnemental des vêtements – RTS
Overview
Since the 1970s, the consumption of material resources has tripled and continues to increase. At the same time, the amount of waste we produce is also growing. “Zero Waste” movements have emerged within various organizations, guided by the principle of the 5Rs:
- Refuse what we do not need to buy
- Reduce our consumption
- Reuse instead of throwing away
- Recycle what can no longer be used
- Repair instead of replacing
Key Actions
Apply the 5Rs in everyday life
The 5Rs prioritize prevention (refusing and reducing) before recycling, helping preserve resources, save energy, and limit the CO₂ emissions linked to production and waste disposal.
2.9 million tonnes of waste incinerated
In 2024, more than 6 million tonnes of waste were generated in Switzerland, of which 2.9 million tonnes were incinerated.¹1
Buy second-hand
The consumption of new goods (clothing, appliances, furniture) generates significant emissions through raw material extraction, manufacturing, and transport. Buying second-hand extends the lifespan of existing products, reduces demand for new production, and limits waste.
Extend the lifespan of your belongings
Repairing, maintaining, or adapting clothes and equipment prevents premature purchases and extends product life cycles, reducing resource extraction and textile/electronic waste (700 kg per person per year in Switzerland).2
Avoid unnecessary packaging
Packaging accounts for around 30% of Swiss urban waste, including plastics that are difficult to recycle. Refusing or minimizing packaging at the source is more effective than recycling and helps save energy and resources.
Resist advertising and trends
Advertising and fast-changing trends encourage overconsumption. Avoiding impulse purchases driven by advertising reduces waste, embodied energy, and greenhouse gas emissions.
Checklist
- Apply the 5Rs in everyday life
- Buy second-hand
- Extend the lifespan of your belongings
- Avoid unnecessary packaging
- Resist advertising and trends