Despite copping criticism for a lack of diversity amongst nominees, the 2020 BAFTAs red carpet has made some big moves when it comes to sustainability.
According to The Independent, BAFTA specifically asked guests to make “sustainable choices” on the red carpet by re-wearing something they already own or hiring something instead of buying something new.
Ahead of today’s awards show, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts released a ‘guide’ in choosing more sustainably for the red carpet in partnership with London College of Fashion, UAL.
In the guide, BAFTA recommends a number of websites where guests can buy their red carpet frocks second hand or resell their own goods to avoid them ending up in landfill. They also list websites where you can rent red carpet dresses, and brands that advocate sustainability and inclusivity.
Some of the brands listed include Stella McCartney, Mother of Pearl, Bethany Williams, Reformation and more.
Speaking of sustainability, the GOAT team breakdown Joaquin Phoenix’s recent involvement in the plant-based menu at this year’s Golden Globes on It’s Been A Big Day For… below:
Another way BAFTA recommended keeping their red carpet sustainable is by mending and repairing your clothes before throwing them out. “It is estimated there are 3.6 billion clothes left unworn in the nation’s wardrobes, working out at 57 items per person – with an average of 16 items only worn once and 11 still with the tags on,” they write.
“When you consider how much water, energy and raw materials go into the production of every garment, not to mention the labour and the carbon footprint of the transportation of the clothing, this is not an approach we can maintain.”
The efforts of BAFTA clearly paid off with the Duchess of Cambridge Kate Middleton arriving in a dress she had previously wore at a 2012 dinner in Malaysia.
It’s so important that big events like the BAFTAs that have such a huge audience push for sustainability. We’ve got a long way to go but this is definitely a step in the right direction.
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