Chile's Atacama Desert Faces Environmental Crisis from Discarded Clothing
In Chile's Atacama Desert, a massive accumulation of discarded clothing has become a symbol of the global fast fashion crisis. Outside the city of Alto Hospicio, approximately 60,000 tonnes of unwanted garments from around the world cover the desert landscape. These clothes, often arriving through international second-hand trade, include jackets, shoes, and children's wear, with some still bearing original tags. The desert's free-trade zone facilitates the import of over 60,000 tonnes of second-hand garments annually, primarily from Europe, the U.S., Canada, and Asia. While many clothes find new owners, unsold items are often abandoned due to the high cost of proper disposal. This has led to illegal dumping and burning, contributing to environmental pollution. The situation highlights the hidden environmental costs of modern fashion consumption. 
