Fast fashion: From your wardrobe to Chile's Atacama desert

Every year, more than 60,000 tonnes of clothes are shipped to northern Chile from Europe, the US and Asia. Whether they're brand new, unsold or second hand, many of these items are abandoned or burned in Chile's Atacama desert – releasing toxic fumes, affecting people's health and scarring the landscape. A recycling plant is set to open soon, with more than 3,000 tonnes of clothes already waiting. The local community is calling for stricter global regulations, as residents suffer the consequences of the fast fashion industry. The Down to Earth team takes a closer look.

Jun 23, 2025 - 20:00
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Fast fashion: From your wardrobe to Chile's Atacama desert
Every year, more than 60,000 tonnes of clothes are shipped to northern Chile from Europe, the US and Asia. Whether they're brand new, unsold or second hand, many of these items are abandoned or burned in Chile's Atacama desert – releasing toxic fumes, affecting people's health and scarring the landscape. A recycling plant is set to open soon, with more than 3,000 tonnes of clothes already waiting. The local community is calling for stricter global regulations, as residents suffer the consequences of the fast fashion industry. The Down to Earth team takes a closer look.

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