Green Screen 1: The True Cost

Why you should watch The True Cost:

Watch "The True Cost" to see the harsh but true reality of the business of fashion. We all know that fast fashion is bad, and this documentary shows just how bad it can get and unfortunately sometimes still is to this day. Becoming more aware of the negative impact of the fashion industry can help us to make more sustainable and ethical choices as consumers.

The documentary provides a powerful call to action (or a reminder!) to help to change the current state of the industry. It remains important to hold corporations accountable for the impact their business has on people and planet, especially if the true cost of products is hidden and mostly ends up being paid by the communities that are the most vulnerable!

We saw The True Cost for the first time about 5 years ago and it was one of the main motivations that inspired the launch of Honest Basics.

Summary and essential take-aways:

"The True Cost" is a documentary that explores the negative impacts of the fashion industry on workers in the supply chain and our planet. The film sheds light on the hidden costs of fast fashion and encourages viewers to think about the true cost of the clothes they wear. Who pays the price for our low prices?

The film follows the journey of clothing from cotton farms to garment factories in countries like Bangladesh and Cambodia, where workers often work in unsafe conditions and are paid very low wages. It highlights the devastating effects of environmental pollution caused by the fast fashion industry, including the use of toxic chemicals and waste dumping. Some of these practices continue to this day!

"The True Cost" also shows the importance of conscious consumerism and the need for a more sustainable and ethical fashion industry. The documentary features interviews with industry experts, environmental activists, and garment workers, who share their perspectives on the current state of the fashion industry.

Some of the main takeaways from the film include:

1. The true cost of fast fashion is much higher than what consumers pay for the clothes. The environmental and social costs are often hidden and paid by people and the planet, not by the end consumers.

2. Garment workers in countries like Bangladesh and Cambodia often work in unsafe conditions and are paid very low wages, despite the large profits of multinational corporations that they indirectly work for.

3. The fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world, with toxic chemicals and waste causing significant environmental damage.

4. Conscious consumerism can help drive change in the industry by supporting sustainable and ethical brands and demanding transparency from companies.