The Sustainable Way

We are the Horniman Youth Panel and we’re raising awareness of the environmental impact of the cotton industry.

Some of us were already involved in climate activism before making this case. For others, this was the start of a journey, but we all want to communicate the same message of hope.

The Horniman Youth Panel is made up of young people aged 14 – 19 from all over London. We meet up regularly to discuss what is happening at the Museum and to ensure young people’s voices make a difference to what goes on in the Horniman.

Did you know that it takes 2,700 litres of water to make just one cotton t-shirt?

It doesn’t have to be this way.

Instead of buying fast fashion, buying sustainable, ethical clothing protects both the planet and people too.

The industrialisation of cotton production is exploitative, and linked to the slave trade, the repurposing of peoples’ land and poor working conditions.

Cotton can be cultivated and processed in a sustainable way, not just for the planet but for people too.

We were inspired by the Hopi people and their respectful and sustainable farming of the land. Looking to cultures who already farm sustainable can teach us more about how we can work with, not against, the environment.

Another way is possible. Through our actions, both big and small, we can all help to take greater care of our planet. The time for change is now!