A new exhibition exploring the environmental impact of fast fashion and textile waste is set to open in Waterford next month.

Material World will be installed at Waterford Central Library on Lady Lane from September 18th, before moving to Dungarvan Library later in the month.

Developed by The Upcycle Movement in partnership with Waterford City and County Council and Wexford County Council, the interactive exhibition focuses on how clothing is produced, consumed and discarded.

At its centre will be a globe sculpture created entirely from reclaimed textiles, alongside displays examining repair, reuse and upcycling as ways of reducing clothing waste.

Mayor of Waterford City and County, Cllr. Liam Brazil, will officially launch the exhibition on September 18th.

A free public workshop will also take place at Waterford Central Library at 6pm on Wednesday, September 23rd.

The session will include practical demonstrations and activities covering clothing repair, upcycling and ways of extending the lifespan of clothes.

Council Environment Awareness Officer Ella Ryan said the exhibition aims to demonstrate the connection between clothing consumption, waste and climate change.

‘Material World helps people understand the connection between fashion, waste and climate change while providing practical ideas that can be incorporated into everyday life,’ she said.

The exhibition will remain at Waterford Central Library until September 28th, before moving to Dungarvan Library on Davitt’s Quay, where it will run until October 5th.