Lauren Goode and Michael Calore engage in a conversation about Lauren’s shirt during a podcast episode of Gadget Lab. Lauren mentions that she got the shirt at Bloomingdale’s and admits that she selected it in a hurry before appearing on The Today Show. Michael then asks if she researched the shirt for toxic chemicals before purchasing it, to which Lauren replies that she only checked the price tag.
Michael reveals that unfortunately, many clothes contain toxic chemicals. Intrigued by this revelation, Lauren suggests bringing on a guest to further delve into the topic. Alden Wicker, a journalist and author, joins them on the show. Alden has written a book titled ‘To Dye For: How Toxic Fashion Is Making Us Sick,’ where she explores the harmful effects of toxic chemicals found in our clothing.
Michael and Lauren take a moment to welcome Alden and express their excitement about having her on the show. They explain that today’s discussion revolves around the toxic chemicals present in our clothes, a subject Alden has extensively covered in her book and various publications such as WIRED, The New York Times, Vogue, and her own outlet, Ecocult.
Lauren praises the title of Alden’s book, highlighting that ‘To Dye’ is spelled as D-Y-E. Michael and Lauren both acknowledge the cleverness of the title. Alden humbly mentions that she did not come up with the title but assures them that the person who did is receiving proper credit and compensation.
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The conversation then turns to Alden’s book, which is a comprehensive exploration of the common dyes and treatments used in the fashion industry that contain toxic chemicals. In her research, Alden interviewed numerous professionals ranging from researchers and doctors to fashion industry workers and everyday consumers. The goal was to understand the impact of these chemicals, dyes, and treatments on our health.
With the stage set, Michael asks Alden to identify some of the common toxic chemicals used by fashion companies in their garments. This is an important question, as consumers need to understand the potential dangers associated with the clothes they wear every day.
As Alden explains her findings, she highlights several harmful chemicals and dyes commonly used in the fashion industry. These chemicals include toxins like phthalates, formaldehyde, heavy metals, and perfluorinated compounds. Phthalates, for example, are commonly used in textile printing and can disrupt the endocrine system. Formaldehyde, a known carcinogen, is often used to prevent wrinkles in clothing. Heavy metals such as lead, mercury, and cadmium are used in dyes and pigments for their vibrant colors but can have severe health effects. Perfluorinated compounds, found in certain waterproof and stain-resistant treatments, are associated with a range of health concerns, including hormone disruption and developmental issues.
Alden stresses that these toxic chemicals not only pose risks to our health but also harm the environment. The production and disposal of garments containing these chemicals contribute to pollution and ecological damage.
Lauren and Michael express their concern and shock at the prevalence of these toxic chemicals in mainstream fashion. They discuss the importance of raising awareness among consumers and promoting sustainable and non-toxic alternatives in the fashion industry. Alden suggests that consumers can make informed choices by researching brands that prioritize transparency and environmentally friendly practices. Additionally, she encourages people to support secondhand clothing, which reduces the demand for new garments and minimizes the release of toxic chemicals into the environment.
As the discussion continues, Alden shares insights from her interviews and research, providing practical tips for readers to minimize their exposure to toxic chemicals in clothing. She emphasizes the need to wash and care for clothes properly, as chemicals can leach into our bodies through our skin. Additionally, she encourages readers to advocate for stricter regulations and transparency in the fashion industry to ensure safer manufacturing practices.
In conclusion, the conversation between Lauren, Michael, and Alden sheds light on the widespread use of toxic chemicals in the fashion industry. Alden’s book serves as a valuable resource, empowering consumers to make more informed decisions about the clothes they wear and encouraging the industry to adopt safer and more sustainable practices. By raising awareness and promoting change, we can strive to create a fashion industry that prioritizes both our health and the planet’s well-being.
