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Fast Fashion's 'Dirty Business' Exposed in New Documentary

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  Published in Business and Finance on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 19:42 GMT by The Mirror
      Locales: England, Wales, Scotland, UNITED KINGDOM

London, UK - February 24th, 2026 - A new investigation by Channel 4, titled 'Dirty Business', is sending shockwaves through the fashion industry and sparking renewed calls for systemic change. The documentary, airing Thursday, exposes the deeply concerning reality of fast fashion's devastating impact on both planetary health and human well-being, focusing heavily on the pervasive use of PFAS 'forever chemicals' and the rampant pollution stemming from textile manufacturing.

The fast fashion model, predicated on rapid production cycles and low costs, has fueled a culture of disposable clothing. While consumers benefit from affordability, the environmental and social costs are proving to be astronomical. 'Dirty Business' meticulously details how this relentless pursuit of cheap production is leading to widespread contamination of water sources, harm to wildlife, and potential health risks for both factory workers and consumers.

At the heart of the expose lies the issue of PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances). These man-made chemicals, lauded for their water-resistant and stain-proof qualities, are increasingly recognized as a significant environmental threat. Crucially, PFAS do not break down naturally; they persist in the environment indefinitely, earning them the moniker 'forever chemicals.' The documentary showcases evidence of these chemicals leaching into waterways in developing nations - locations frequently hosting textile production facilities - contaminating drinking water and disrupting ecosystems.

Campaigner Eloise Perry, featured prominently in 'Dirty Business', asserts that the fashion industry has been aware of the dangers posed by PFAS for years, yet has consistently prioritized profit over environmental and human health. "The evidence is clear," Perry states, "these chemicals are linked to a range of serious health problems, including cancer, immune system suppression, and developmental issues. Yet, the industry continues to use them, effectively gambling with the health of millions."

The investigation doesn't stop at PFAS. It also sheds light on the often-untreated wastewater discharged from textile factories. These effluents, laden with harmful chemicals beyond just PFAS - including dyes, microplastics, and other industrial byproducts - are frequently released directly into rivers, often serving as crucial sources of drinking water for local communities. The documentary features a harrowing interview with a factory owner who candidly admits the financial impossibility of implementing proper wastewater treatment systems. "We're operating on razor-thin margins," he explains. "We simply can't afford the infrastructure required to clean up our mess." This admission underscores the complex economic realities driving environmental degradation within the fast fashion supply chain.

The Global Scale of the Problem

The impact extends far beyond the immediate vicinity of these factories. PFAS have been detected in rainwater, snow, and even human blood across the globe, indicating widespread environmental distribution. The chemicals accumulate in wildlife, moving up the food chain and posing a threat to both animal and human health. The long-term consequences of this pervasive contamination are still largely unknown, but scientists warn of potentially irreversible damage to ecosystems and human populations.

Calls for Accountability and Systemic Change

'Dirty Business' isn't merely an indictment of the industry; it's a call to action. Perry and other advocates are urging consumers to demand greater transparency from fashion brands regarding their chemical usage and production processes. They're also pushing for stricter regulations and enforcement to hold companies accountable for their environmental impact. The documentary highlights the need for investment in sustainable alternatives to PFAS and for the development of closed-loop manufacturing systems that minimize waste and pollution.

Several organizations are already campaigning for extended producer responsibility (EPR) schemes, which would require fashion brands to take financial responsibility for the end-of-life management of their products. This could incentivize brands to design for durability and recyclability, reducing the amount of textile waste ending up in landfills.

Consumer Power and the Future of Fashion The documentary suggests that consumer behavior plays a crucial role. By embracing slow fashion principles - buying less, choosing quality over quantity, and supporting sustainable brands - individuals can exert pressure on the industry to adopt more responsible practices. The rise of clothing rental services and the growing popularity of secondhand shopping are also positive trends that could help reduce the demand for new, fast-fashion items.

'Dirty Business' serves as a stark reminder that the true cost of cheap clothing is far greater than the price tag suggests. Unless significant changes are made, the fast fashion industry will continue to poison our planet and jeopardize the health of generations to come. The documentary aims to empower viewers to make informed choices and demand a more sustainable and ethical fashion future.