While we know what comes to mind with generally unhealthy “fast food” dining options I was unaware of the harmful world of “fast fashion.”Image

Fast fashion is apparel that is produced quickly, imported from countries like Bangladesh, known for their low cost of production, and is not often made from high quality materials.

Unfortunately such clothing options can be as harmful as processed food.  The collapse of a garment factory in Bangladesh, that produces clothing for international clothing lines, brought global awareness to the problems with cheap clothing. America’s Research Group found that even after this tragedy, shoppers were still more concerned with fit and price as opposed to worker safety and garment quality.

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In the wake of the building collapse and with the loss of lives of thousands of workers, many apparel companies including H&M (with large production facilities in Bangladesh) have signed a plan for improved safety standards. Several other retailers are signing on too, including Inditex, owner of the Zara chain and PVH, the parent company of Calvin Klein, Tommy Hilfiger and Izod. This is a start.