Unravelling the motivations for the environmental harm posed by the unsustainable practices by the apparel industry in Ghana

Abstract

The apparel industry in Ghana has increasingly come under scrutiny for its environmental footprint, particularly in the wake of rising concerns about ecological degradation. This study critically examines the motivations behind unsustainable practices within the industry, exploring how economic, cultural, and structural factors contribute to environmental harm. Using Routine Activity Theory (RAT) as a guiding framework, the research identifies key drivers of ecological damage, including the dominance of profit-driven decisions, market demand for fast apparel, limited awareness of sustainable practices, and challenges in accessing eco-friendly materials. Additionally, the study investigates how the apparel industry's operations exploit natural resources and fragile ecosystems, making them vulnerable to degradation. The research adopts a qualitative approach, employing semi-structured interviews with 25 purposively selected apparel designers in Ghana to gain in-depth insights into their experiences and sustainability challenges. Despite existing sustainability efforts, gaps in enforcement, policy inconsistencies, and greenwashing continue to hinder meaningful progress. The study highlights the urgent need for stronger regulatory oversight, increased industry awareness, and economically viable sustainability strategies. By bridging criminological and environmental perspectives, the findings contribute to a deeper understanding of ecological harm in Ghana’s apparel sector and provide a foundation for actionable interventions.