Study Reveals Clothing Rentals Reduce Greenhouse Gas Emissions

Research highlights the sustainability potential of clothing rental services, suggesting they can significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 75% when consumers rent items such as formal wear and maternity clothing rather than purchasing them. Studies from Sweden identify three viable business models for clothing rentals: membership, subscription, and individual rentals, though profitability remains a challenge for many companies. The rise of Gen Z shoppers, who increasingly prefer thrifting and secondhand shopping, drives a cultural shift away from fast fashion to more sustainable consumption practices. Nonprofits like Twice as Nice in Virginia report booming sales and a growing interest in secondhand goods, particularly among younger consumers. Initiatives like Lehigh University's Swap Shop further promote sustainability by offering free clothing options to reduce waste and encourage community sharing. Overall, the trend towards access-based consumption in fashion reflects a broader shift towards sustainability and conscious consumerism in the industry.