The fast fashion industry is facing a critical turning point, with sustainability becoming an urgent focus amid growing concerns about environmental degradation and unethical labour practices.

As the sector accounts for a significant share of global carbon emissions, water pollution, and textile waste, the demand for more responsible, transparent, and circular practices is intensifying. Consumers and regulators alike are pushing for change, prompting brands to rethink their production models.

Shein

Shein exhibits severe shortcomings in environmental sustainability and social responsibility. Its high CO2 emissions, reliance on polluting materials, labor rights violations, and lack of transparency in sustainability practices demand urgent action to mitigate the company’s negative impact on the environment and society

Is not Just a Brand, It’s a Way of Life

Criteria

Carbon Footprint, Low

In 2023, Shein emitted 16.7 million metric tons of CO2, surpassing the annual emissions of four coal power plants. The company’s absolute emissions have increased by 176% since 2021, with an 83% rise between 2022 and 2023.

Ecological Impact, Low

Shein relies heavily on synthetic materials like polyester and polyamide, which release microplastics into oceans and ecosystems, contributing to plastic pollution.

The fast fashion industry, where Shein is a dominant player, is responsible for 20% of annual freshwater pollution and 35% of all microplastic emissions globally.

Energy Consumption, Low

The company’s rapid and large-scale production demands high energy consumption, significantly contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.

Freight Density, Medium

Shein’s global distribution model heavily relies on air and maritime transport, further increasing its carbon footprint.

Recycling Rates, Low

Although Shein introduced a resale platform in the U.S. to promote sustainability, the effectiveness of this initiative is questionable, as customers may prefer buying new low-cost items rather than second-hand products.

Saving Levels, Low

There is no publicly available information on financial savings achieved through sustainable practices, suggesting a lack of focus on efficiency gains.

Specific Product Monitoring, Low

A 2021 investigation found that some Shein garments contained dangerous levels of lead and other toxic chemicals, indicating a failure in product safety monitoring.

Supply Chain Waste, Low

In 2024, Shein identified two cases of child labor among its suppliers, one involving an 11-year-old girl. Additionally, the company has been accused of labor rights violations, including low wages and unsafe working conditions.

Sustainability Scorecards, Low

Despite Shein publishing a Sustainability and Social Impact Report in 2023, rising emissions and ongoing labor rights violations raise concerns about the credibility of its sustainability initiatives.

Water Management, Low

The fast fashion industry, including Shein, contributes 20% of annual freshwater pollution, highlighting inadequate water resource management.

Related to other brands

Number of criteria met by each brand:

ESCP Business School Team

Research developed by five curious international ESCP Business School students who have worked together to successfully complete their consulting project. They analysed four brands in four different categories -24 brands: electric cars EV, dairy products, computers, personal care, luxury apparel, fast fashion-, according to 10 environmental criteria.

Sources

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