Clothing plays an important role in establishing the identity of adolescents, and contributes to their self-confidence. This is one of the reasons, why young people are one of the largest consumers in the clothing and textile market. When impulsively buying new clothes that will "refresh" our wardrobe, we increasingly forget what kind of impact the clothes has on the environment. In the last decade, organic clothing has started to appear on the market, which is environmentally more friendly alternative to mass production of low-quality textiles and clothing. However, organic clothing, due to its higher price and less attractive appearance, is still consumer second choice.
Through a group discussion within focus groups in 6th and 8th grade, we wanted to find out if students are aware of the negative impacts of the textile industry on the environment. We were also interested in how they interpret the term green shopping. We also wanted to find out what importance 6th and 8th grade students attach to clothing, brands, and whether they pay attention to their material and origin when buying clothes. We also wanted to investigate how the treatment of purchased clothes differs between 6th and 8th grade students. 6th and 8th grade elementary school students participated in the research. There were 8 focus groups, 4 in 6th grade and 4 in 8th grade. The groups in which the conversation took place consisted of 6 to 8 randomly selected students.
We found that the awareness of both, 6th and 8th grade students is good. They are aware of the impact of textile industry on the environment, and can suggest solutions that can mitigate its negative effects. The term green shopping is better known to 6th graders, but 8th graders can interpret it in a similar way. Clothing and branded clothing are more important to 8th graders compared to 6th graders, as they are more inclined to impress their friends. Even when buying clothes, 8th grade students pay less attention to the material and origin of clothes than 6th grade students. The main factor of purchase for 8th grade students is the appearance and price of the product, while 6th grade students pay attention to the quality, material and comfort of the clothes. 6th graders wear clothes as long as they are big enough, are not torn, or until they still like them. Compared to 6th grade, 8th grade students mostly wear clothes until they get tired of them. Used clothes from 6th and 8th grade students are donated to relatives, friends or charities (Humana, Red Cross).
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