140. Fast fashion’s hidden cost: Who really pays the price? episode artwork

EPISODE · Jul 9, 2025 · 10 MIN

140. Fast fashion’s hidden cost: Who really pays the price?

from The Weekly Tradecast by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) · host unctadonline

From microplastics polluting our oceans to carcinogenic chemicals and mountains of waste in landfills, the fashion industry’s environmental footprint is growing as quickly as the trends it churns out. As shoppers chase ever-changing styles, can fashion ever be truly sustainable? In the latest episode of The Weekly Tradecast, we’re joined by Runa Raay – fashion environmentalist, designer, and activist – to explore the high environmental and human toll of fast fashion. With insight into everything from synthetic fibres and forever chemicals to global supply chains and discarded clothes in developing countries, Runa challenges us to think before we buy. Join us to discuss what it takes to stitch together a sustainable fashion future.

From microplastics polluting our oceans to carcinogenic chemicals and mountains of waste in landfills, the fashion industry’s environmental footprint is growing as quickly as the trends it churns out. As shoppers chase ever-changing styles, can fashion ever be truly sustainable? In the latest episode of The Weekly Tradecast, we’re joined by Runa Raay – fashion environmentalist, designer, and activist – to explore the high environmental and human toll of fast fashion. With insight into everything from synthetic fibres and forever chemicals to global supply chains and discarded clothes in developing countries, Runa challenges us to think before we buy. Join us to discuss what it takes to stitch together a sustainable fashion future.

NOW PLAYING

140. Fast fashion’s hidden cost: Who really pays the price?

0:00 10:45

No transcript for this episode yet

We transcribe on demand. Request one and we'll notify you when it's ready — usually under 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is this episode of The Weekly Tradecast by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD)?

This episode is 10 minutes long.

When was this The Weekly Tradecast by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) episode published?

This episode was published on July 9, 2025.

What is this episode about?

From microplastics polluting our oceans to carcinogenic chemicals and mountains of waste in landfills, the fashion industry’s environmental footprint is growing as quickly as the trends it churns out. As shoppers chase ever-changing styles, can...

Can I download this The Weekly Tradecast by UN Trade and Development (UNCTAD) episode?

Yes, you can download this episode by clicking the download button on the episode player, or subscribe to the podcast in your preferred podcast app for automatic downloads.
URL copied to clipboard!