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Design+ Traditional handcrafting and sustainability

Figure 15. Samples of zero-waste-inspired works 100

Moreover, Lewis and Potter highlight the social Ensuring workers’ rights and establishing fair working
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dimension of ethical consumption, emphasizing that conditions are critical for social sustainability. As Dickson
consumers are often willing to pay more for products that et al. note, a lack of transparency in supply chains can lead
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are environmentally friendly and derived from equitable to the exploitation of workers, affecting both individual and
practices. This conscious choice, as shown in the study by social well-being. Ethical trade, fair wages, and working
Andorfer and Liebe, is influenced by factors such as price, conditions that respect human rights are prerequisites for
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awareness, and ethical values. achieving social justice in the fashion industry.
Implementing sustainable practices through Moreover, social sustainability is directly related
traditional handicrafts not only reinforces environmental to strengthening the local economy and supporting
sustainability but also promotes social cohesion. As community development by empowering small-scale
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Parker states, initiatives that integrate tradition with producers and artisans. As discussed by Fletcher and
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contemporary sustainability principles can serve as models Grose, supporting local artisans and promoting
for a new approach to the fashion industry. traditional production methods enhances the local
economy, thereby contributing to poverty reduction and
Dhingra et al. note that the working conditions fostering social stability, while providing communities
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of artisans and their quality of life are critical to the with opportunities to develop sustainably.
development of sustainable handicraft industries.
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Traditional handicrafts, such as embroidery and weaving, According to Lundblad and Davies, consumers also have
contribute to the restoration of ecological balance. a role in achieving social sustainability through their purchasing
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For example, sustainable fashion initiatives rooted in decisions. Increasing awareness of working conditions and
local traditions create alternative economic models that corporate social responsibility encourages consumers to
prioritize environmental integrity and community reliance. choose products produced in a socially responsible manner.
This awareness creates pressure on businesses to improve their
4.5. Social sustainability practices and promote social justice. The concept of social
Social sustainability is closely linked to fashion, as sustainability in fashion also ensures that the industry’s social
clothing production and consumption processes have aspects – such as working conditions, equal opportunities,
direct impacts on the communities and workers involved. and community well-being – are maintained and adequately
Ethical trade practices and the fair treatment of workers supported. Recent initiatives indicate that the fashion industry
are key factors in achieving social sustainability. According is increasingly focusing on integrating the social dimension
to Dhingra and Dhingra, the quality of life of workers into broader sustainability strategies.
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in the handicraft industry significantly affects the social Several studies explore the role of fashion design as a
development of their communities. tool for social inclusion, particularly focusing on refugee

Volume 2 Issue 3 (2025) 16 doi: 10.36922/DP025190027