The Short Life of Inanimate Objects

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is a journalist, graduate of Collegium Civitas.

In the old days, things were repaired, not thrown out. Soon, when buying a washing machine for example, we will know not just how energy-saving it is, but also to what extent it is repairable and durable. At least in France. An interview with Adèle Chasson from the Stop Planned Obsolescence (HOP; Halte à L’Obsolescence Programmée) NGO.

Urszula Kaczorowska: Are you a crazy activist?

Adèle Chasson: No. Absolutely not.

But your organization wants to imprison manufacturers who deliberately design their products with the aim of limiting their lifespan. People found guilty of planned obsolescence can end up behind bars for two years and the company can face fines of 5% of annual revenues.

At first sight, it might sound very radical. In reality, on the one hand we are focused on condemning the dishonest business practices that deliberately put products onto the market, which break quickly so that consumers are encouraged to replace them. On the other hand, we promote businesses that do the exact opposite: they want their products to have a long lifespan.

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Urszula Kaczorowska:

is a journalist, graduate of Collegium Civitas.

Translation: Annie Krasińska

Publish date: 10.09.2019

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Agata Zborowska:

is a Postdoctoral Fellow at the University of Chicago with expertise in cultural studies. She has many areas of research, recently focusing mainly on the subject of post-war Poland.

Textile consumption is increasing year by year, which makes recycling one of the most pressing issues in the clothing industry. How did the recycling of clothing work in a more natural environment – when clothes were scarce, and not produced in abundance, as they are today?

According to the recent trend of fighting excessive consumption, we should get rid of all our possessions – including clothes – that do not bring us positive emotions. “If it doesn’t spark joy, throw it away,” says Marie Kondo, an organizing consultant and media personality. This simple rule makes some people laugh, but it helps to restore order for others. It poses, however, a huge problem. That’s why the largest chain stores are suggesting a reverse solution: instead of throwing it away, bring it to the mall. Reclaiming clothes means extending their lifespan. Or rather, returning them to their origins – it means that, once again, they become the filaments and textiles that once created them.

The Short Life of Inanimate Objects

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The Secret Life of Textiles

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