UNIVERSITY OF TARTU

Faculty of Social Sciences

School of Economics and Business Administration

Ayaulym Zhumatay

ESSAY BASED ON THE DOCUMENTARY “THE TRUE COST”

Home assignment 3

Lecturer: Anne Reino

Tartu 2023

Table of Contents
ESSAY BASED ON THE DOCUMENTARY “THE TRUE COST”

Introduction................................................................................................................................3

Core Issues in the Documentary................................................................................................3

The Importance of the Issue in Today’s Society........................................................................3

Main Stakeholders Involved......................................................................................................4

The Relation of the Issue to Myself...........................................................................................4

Possible Solution to the Situation..............................................................................................4

Responsibility for Change..........................................................................................................5

What I Learned and Thoughts Arisen........................................................................................5

References..................................................................................................................................6

Introduction

2
ESSAY BASED ON THE DOCUMENTARY “THE TRUE COST”

Fashion has been an essential part of our lives, and it plays a significant role in shaping

our cultural identities. However, the industry's rapid growth has resulted in severe consequences

on the environment and human lives. The documentary "The True Cost" is a thought-provoking

film that examines the social, environmental, and ethical impacts of the fashion industry. This

essay will explore the core issues raised in the documentary, the stakeholders involved, and the

possible solutions to this situation.

Core Issues in the Documentary

The documentary highlights the various problems facing the fashion industry, including

environmental degradation, exploitation of workers, and the overconsumption of resources. The

fashion industry has become the second-largest polluter globally, contributing to about 10% of

the world's carbon footprint. The industry also emits more greenhouse gases than all

international flights and maritime shipping combined. Additionally, the documentary sheds light

on the harsh working conditions and low wages paid to garment factory workers, particularly in

developing countries. Workers in these countries often work for long hours in unsafe conditions,

with minimal pay.

The Importance of the Issue in Today’s Society

The fashion industry's negative impact on the environment and society is a critical issue

that needs urgent attention. The industry's growth and success have been at the expense of

environmental degradation, and this has far-reaching consequences for future generations. The

industry's massive carbon footprint contributes to climate change, which poses significant risks

to the planet and human lives. Moreover, the exploitation of garment workers' rights in

developing countries is a violation of human rights and dignity. Consumers need to be aware of

the impact of their fashion choices and demand accountability from companies.

3
ESSAY BASED ON THE DOCUMENTARY “THE TRUE COST”

Main Stakeholders Involved

The fashion industry has various stakeholders involved, including consumers, producers,

retailers, workers, and governments. Consumers have the power to change the industry by

demanding sustainable and ethical fashion. Producers and retailers can take steps to reduce the

environmental impact of fashion production by adopting sustainable practices. Governments can

enact policies to regulate the industry, protect workers' rights and safeguard the environment.

The workers are the most affected by the industry's practices, and their rights need to be

protected.

The Relation of the Issue to Myself

As a person who rarely follows fashion trends and only buys clothes, when necessary, I

have not been actively involved in the fashion industry's overconsumption. However, after

watching the documentary, I realized that my choices still contribute to the industry's impact. For

instance, the clothes I buy could have been produced in unsafe and exploitative conditions. The

documentary made me realize the importance of taking responsibility for my choices and

demanding accountability from the industry.

Possible Solutions to the Situation

The fashion industry must take steps to reduce its environmental and social impact. This

could include the adoption of sustainable practices such as the use of organic materials, reducing

waste, and energy efficiency. Additionally, companies should ensure that workers' rights are

protected by implementing fair labor practices, including fair wages and safe working

conditions. Consumers can also make a difference by demanding sustainable and ethical fashion,

reducing overconsumption and waste.

4
ESSAY BASED ON THE DOCUMENTARY “THE TRUE COST”

Responsibility for Change

The fashion industry has the primary responsibility to change the situation. Companies

should prioritize sustainability and ethical practices in their production processes. Governments

also have a role to play by enacting policies that regulate the industry and protect workers' rights.

Consumers can also contribute by making conscious choices that prioritize sustainability and

ethical fashion.

What I Learned and Thoughts Arisen

After watching the documentary, I learned about the fashion industry's hidden dark side

and the impact of my fashion choices. The film highlighted the urgency of the situation and the

need for collective action to bring about change. I realized that I have the power to make a

difference by demanding accountability from the industry and making conscious choices. The

film

References

1. Morgan, A. (Director). (2015). The True Cost [Documentary]. Untold Creative.