The lack of transparency in the fashion supply chain blocks us from seeing exactly how much waste is created, where this waste is produced and the impact it has on people and the environment.
#1 - Heavy Wool Sweater
.
It takes about 1-5 years for a heavy wool sweater to break down.
#2 - Denim Jacket
For a denim jacket it takes about 10-12 months to decompose. (Considered it is made of 100% cotton.)
#3 - Merino Thermal Top
For a Merino Thermal Top (sometimes used as skiing underwear), it takes around 9 months break down.
#4 - Polyester Dress
A polyester dress will never really decompose completely but you could say that depending on the composition of fibers it takes around 20-200 years to break apart.
#5 - Leather
It takes around 50 years for a leather bag to break down. (Trimmings such as metallic buttons, zippers or polyester thread not counted in).
#6 - Viscose T-Shirt
For a viscose T-shirt it takes around 1-6 weeks do decompose.
#7 - Nylon Tights
As I wrote on the polyester dress, nylon does not in my opinion truly break down completely. But according to Fashion Revolution it takes around 30-40 years for a pair of nylon tights to break apart.
#8 - Lycra Sportswear
