Additionally, secondhand shopping also helps to extend the life of clothing that would otherwise end up in landfills. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, the average American throws away approximately 70 pounds of clothing and textiles each year. By buying secondhand, consumers are helping to keep clothing in circulation and out of landfills, which can reduce waste and conserve resources.

However, secondhand shopping is not without its own environmental impact. Shipping and transportation of secondhand clothing can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions, and the cleaning and repairs required to make clothing suitable for resale can also have an impact. Additionally, some secondhand clothing may come from overseas, which can increase the carbon footprint of the purchase.

On the other hand, shopping for brand new clothing can also have environmental benefits if the clothing is made from sustainable materials and produced using environmentally friendly methods. For example, clothing made from organic cotton or recycled fibers can reduce the environmental impact of the production process, and production methods that use renewable energy and minimize waste can also help to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry.

Additionally, shopping for brand new clothing can support companies that are working to reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainability. By choosing to buy clothing from companies that prioritise sustainability, consumers can help to drive demand for environmentally friendly products and encourage the fashion industry to become more sustainable.