Sustainable Fashion Takes the Spotlight on Zero-Waste Day.

The third International Day of Zero Waste, led by the United Nations Environment Programme  and UN-Habitat, will take place on March 30, 2025. This year’s theme, Towards Zero Waste in Fashion and Textiles, focuses on the fashion industry’s growing impact on the global waste crisis—and the urgent need for change.

Experts say the fashion industry has the possible to lead the zero-waste movement by improving waste management, cutting down on additional production, and bright more Eco-friendly ways of making and consuming clothing.

Right now, the world generates 2.3 billion loads of national solid waste every year—including food, electronics, and goods. The fashion industry alone produces 92 million tonnes of goods waste annually, according to The Global Fashion Agenda.

That’s the counterpart of a garbage truck full of clothes being dumped or burned every second. Meanwhile, between 2000 and 2015, clothing production doubled, but the lifespan of garments dropped by 36%, according to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.

The industry’s environmental impact goes far beyond waste. Fashion and textiles contribute 2–8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, release 9% of microplastic pollution into the oceans, and use a wonderful 215 trillion liters of water—enough to fill 86 million Olympic-sized swimming pools.

On top of that, around 15,000 chemicals are used in goods production, with some persisting in the environment for decades.With Zero Waste Day approaching, the fashion industry is under pressure to change its ways. A more sustainable future means moving away from disposable trends and focusing on quality, durability, and responsible production.

The fashion and textile industry is driving mass overconsumption and waste pollution. As the industry continues to expand, so will its environmental impact—unless businesses, governments, and consumers take action toward circularity and sustainable production, says Jacqueline Alvarez, Chief of UNEP’s Chemicals and Health Branch.The International Day of Zero Waste 2025 will promote a more circular fashion sector and recognise textile waste as a valuable resource, Alvarez emphasised.

A Global Call to Action

Zero-Waste Day, observed on March 30, 2025, will be marked by events and activities worldwide, raising awareness of local, national, and global zero-waste initiatives. UNEP and UN-Habitat encourage stakeholders and partners to participate and register their events to spread the message.

Achieving zero waste in fashion and textiles cannot be an isolated effort,Alvarez added. “It requires bold action from everyone—but the benefits will be shared by all. Cutting pollution will lead to both economic and environmental gains for society.

Why Zero Waste Matters

The International Day of Zero Waste was established through UN General Assembly Resolution 77/161 and is jointly led by UNEP and UN-Habitat.

It highlights the importance of waste management, responsible consumption, and sustainable production in achieving a cleaner, healthier planet.By adopting a life-cycle approach, individuals and organizations can reduce resource consumption, minimize pollution, and lower environmental emissions at every stage of a product’s life.

Join the Movement

The global campaigns #BeatPollution and #BeatWastePollution aim to create a pollution-free world by connecting different forms of waste and pollution to broader environmental challenges. Their goal? To protect both human health and the planet through better waste management, circular solutions, and stronger leadership.