Fashion trends come and go, but ethical shopping is here to stay. Being green is high on fashion lovers' shopping lists - with demand on the increase for organic or recycled textiles. Every year in Pembrokeshire, it is estimated that more than 1,000 tonnes of textiles are thrown away each year, with only 25 per cent donated to a charity shop or taken to a recycling bank. This means nearly 750 tonnes is sent to landfill annually. Given that 150g of pesticides can be added to a single t-shirt, the amount of chemicals that could contaminate the water and soil is enormous. But the good news for anyone hoping to boost their wardrobe is that, thanks to a new trend, you can get now get a load of eco-friendly clothes, shoes, or accessories - for free! Across the UK, fashionistas are gathering in people's homes to hold clothes-swapping parties - with some becoming so popular they have developed into organised events. The premise is that people can swap clothes they no longer want for ones they will actually wear. While this may seem like a fun way of obtaining new garments, there is a serious message behind it. Said Huw George, cabinet spokesperson for rnvironment, planning and regulatory services: "We live in an age of throw-away fashion and although consumers are becoming more environmentally aware, the benefits of sharing clothes with friends are not widely known. "If you are unable to buy organic products, donate used textiles to charity shops or take them to a recycling bank, then holding a clothes-swapping party is an excellent way of helping the environment and people's bank balances too!" For more information on recycling in Pembrokeshire, go to the website http://www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/wasteandrecyling">www.pembrokeshire.gov.uk/wasteandrecyling
