“Endwear Chronicles” tackles the two realities we all navigate.
We are increasingly exposed to the problems our planet faces, and the information overload merges with our daily challenges, leading to a prioritization of immediate concerns. While we often focus on small-scale problems, the larger global issues, such as climate change, continue to worsen. The impacts, from intense heat waves to rising water levels and severe storms, are undeniable. We must recognize the physical changes occurring around us and actively address the urgency rather than dismissing them as fleeting inconveniences. The change we are witnessing is tangible, yet we often dismiss it as a mere "hot day." We adapt to these conditions by wearing lighter clothes, seeking shelter from the rain, and accepting it as a typical day. Although the change may occur at a relatively slower pace compared to our problems, it is crucial to acknowledge that we are encountering experiences on a daily basis that were previously unfamiliar to us.
“Do you know what a foreign accent is? It’s a sign of bravery”
Migration poses significant global challenges, whether due to political instability or climate change. Political migration involves people leaving their homes because of conflict or persecution, with over 68 million forcibly displaced worldwide. This issue is expected to worsen, leading to economic decline and social unrest in sending countries, while receiving countries struggle to support new arrivals.
The global issue of political migration has seen a concerning rise, with the number of forcibly displaced people worldwide increasing by 50% in the past decade. An estimated 108.4 million people worldwide have been forced to flee their homes, according to a 2022 analysis from the U.N. Refugee Agency (UNHCR). This figure includes refugees, asylum-seekers, internally displaced people, and other individuals in need of international protection.
The war in Ukraine, which triggered Europe’s largest displacement crisis since World War II, has played a significant role in the rise. At the end of 2022, 52% of the world’s refugee population came from Syria, Ukraine, and Afghanistan.
Top countries with forced immigration:
- Syria 6.5 million
- Ukraine 5.7 million
- Afghanistan 5.7 million
- Venezuela 5.4 million
- South Sudan 2.2 million
- Myanmar 1.2 million
- El Salvador 1 million
This upsurge reflects the escalating challenges faced by individuals forced to leave their homes due to political instability, conflict, or persecution. What adds to the gravity of the situation is that a majority of these forcibly displaced individuals are women and children, highlighting their vulnerability and need for support.
Addressing the needs of forcibly displaced populations requires substantial resources, as the estimated cost of providing humanitarian assistance surpasses $100 billion annually. This financial burden underscores the importance of international cooperation and concerted efforts to ensure the well-being and protection of those affected by political migration.
Climate migration, on the other hand, occurs when people are forced to move due to the impacts of climate change. By 2050, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change estimates that up to 200 million individuals could be displaced. Both sending and receiving countries face significant challenges in addressing this issue.
People residing in low-lying coastal areas and arid regions are among the most vulnerable to climate migration. Rising sea levels pose a direct threat to coastal communities, while prolonged droughts and desertification make already arid regions uninhabitable. Such conditions force individuals to leave their homes in search of safer and more sustainable living conditions.
We created this art from a series of prompts that represented the urge of getting to a better reality. A wall that represents not only physical boundaries but also cultural and economic gaps that will have to be pushed one way or another when nomadism becomes a reality. No order, pure chaos, the survival of the fittest and in many ways the return of humans to raw nature.
The imminent changes brought about by forced migration, whether due to climate or political factors, will have profound impacts on our daily lives. As the number of people seeking refuge or better opportunities increases, our communities will become more diverse, enriching our cultural fabric but also posing challenges of integration and resource allocation. The influx of newcomers may put a strain on existing infrastructure, such as housing, healthcare, and education, requiring careful planning and support from governments and local communities.
In 2023, The United States (usually seen as a super power country) is home to the highest number of immigrants in the world. An estimated 50.6 million people in the United States—a bit more than 15% of the total population of 331.4 million—were born in a foreign country.
There is also the possibility that we ourselves may find the need to search for a better place, uprooting from our familiar surroundings in pursuit of safety and improved conditions. These changes call for empathy, cooperation, and innovative solutions to navigate the complexities of forced migration, while striving to create inclusive societies that offer equal opportunities and a sense of belonging for all individuals, both newcomers and those on the move.
According to the UN International Organization for Migration, there is a notable projection of environmental migrants, with estimates indicating a potential increase to 1 billion individuals within the next three decades and further escalating to 1.4 billion by 2060. Our homes will no longer be our homes.
It is important to recognize that migration is not the problem but rather an essential part of the solution.
“If we don't stop using our atmosphere as an open sewer, and if we don't stop these heat trapping emissions, things are gonna get a lot worse”.
In the past decade, global temperatures reached alarming levels, making it the warmest on record, with a 1.1 degrees Celsius (1.9 degrees Fahrenheit) increase above pre-industrial levels. This significant temperature rise has led to detrimental effects on various fronts.
One concerning consequence is the decline of Arctic sea ice extent, which has decreased by 30% since 1979. This loss of ice has far-reaching implications for the Arctic ecosystem and exacerbates the global warming trend.
Furthermore, both the Greenland and Antarctic ice sheets are experiencing accelerated mass loss, further contributing to rising sea levels. The consequences of these ice sheet reductions are evident, as the global sea level has risen approximately 8 inches since 1880, increasing the vulnerability of coastal areas to flooding and erosion.
The frequency and intensity of extreme weather events have also witnessed a disturbing upsurge. Heatwaves, droughts, floods, and wildfires have become more common and severe in recent years, causing widespread devastation and impacting communities worldwide.
These concerning changes highlight the ongoing impacts of climate change, which are already being felt across the globe. Unfortunately, the situation is expected to worsen in the future, with even more severe consequences projected. Urgent and collective action is crucial to mitigate the effects of climate change and build a more sustainable and resilient future for our planet and its inhabitants.
March 2023 was the second warmest since records began in the mid-1800s, with record warm temperatures in parts of central Asia, coastal China, and Japan, as well as South America. This year is shaping up to be one of top four warmest years on record – and has a modest chance of being the warmest on record. Carbon Brief estimates that 2023 is very likely to end up between the warmest year on record. With the extreme heat we are living around the world it is obvious that is not only has a sensory impact but we can visually see the effect; from California’s wild fires, to the appearance of millions of dead fish washing up on Australia or even smoke from Canada’s wildfires that reach as far as norway.
Extreme heat is not to be taken lightly, global temperatures are likely to surge to record levels in the next five years.
The creation of these two T-Shirt designs was driven by our consideration of the profound impact that heat has on both humanity as a whole and individuals. The first design aims to convey the critical changes occurring in our world, presenting stark data that illustrates the alarming rise in temperatures. It serves as a poignant reminder of the urgent need to address this pressing issue.
In contrast, the second design directly addresses the concept of hyperthermia, a condition caused by an excessive increase in body temperature. This design aims to raise awareness about the dangers and consequences of unbearable temperatures on the human body. Hyperthermia can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, organ failure, and even death.
While we often perceive temperature fluctuations as temporary heat waves that come and go, it is crucial to acknowledge that these changes are part of a continuous trend of rising temperatures. Ignoring these shifts would be irresponsible, as they have far-reaching implications for our daily lives and the well-being of future generations. It is imperative that we confront and address the reality of climate change with a sense of responsibility and urgency.
Have you felt the heat?
Global sea levels have been steadily rising, with an increase of approximately 8 inches since 1880, and this rise is occurring at an accelerating rate. As sea levels continue to climb, coastal regions face various risks such as flooding, erosion, and the intrusion of saltwater into freshwater sources. These challenges pose a significant threat to millions of people residing in coastal areas worldwide. From shifting tectonic plates to prehistoric legacies, these cities could be "swimming with the fishes" by the end of the century if solutions can't be found.
According to a study called "Sinking Cities" by Dr. Katherine Kramer, the world's fastest sinking city is Jakarta in Indonesia. To date, 40% of the city has already succumbed to rising waters. The city is sinking at an incredible 25 cm a year!
Venice, best known for its extensive waterways and romantic history, the city is built in a muddy lagoon with inadequate foundations. It is now very common to find Venice as a trending topic not only for its beauty or small cafes but for the people who visit who constantly have to navigate through water to move around.
Honolulu, Hawai; 13 miles of Hawaiian beach have already disappeared in the last century. New York City is experiencing increasing frequency and severity of floods, receiving the city’s first flash flood emergency in recorded history in November 2021. This is a problem that New York is structurally not prepared for. The government is currently building a wall to protect the city from having the ocean washing in.
Major cities like Dubai, Lisbon, Sydney, Miami, San Francisco, Bangkok, Tokyo among others will be the first to be under water in the coming years.
The consequences of sea level rise extend beyond human displacement and property damage. Ecosystems and fisheries are also at risk of disruption, leading to potential loss of biodiversity. The magnitude of this environmental change requires urgent attention and action to mitigate its detrimental effects.
The impact of sea level rise on human health and safety cannot be underestimated. Coastal communities are particularly vulnerable, facing numerous challenges in adapting to the changing coastal landscape. Addressing sea level rise has become a crucial priority in safeguarding lives, livelihoods, and the overall well-being of communities situated in coastal zones across the globe.
Several coastal cities are facing the threat of flooding and extreme weather events due to rising sea levels. Miami, Florida, and New York City are low-lying cities already experiencing flooding and at risk of hurricanes. Venice, Italy, surrounded by water and built on canals, is also vulnerable to flooding from rising sea levels and storm surges. Rotterdam, Netherlands, a port city located below sea level, relies on dikes and dams for protection, but they are increasingly at risk. Similarly, Can Tho, Vietnam, situated on the Mekong Delta, faces the danger of flooding due to rising sea levels and storm surges.
This graphic pretends to showcase how flooding becomes a major concern, as the increased water levels can displace large populations and lead to substantial property damage running into billions of dollars. Additionally, the erosion of coastal regions threatens the very existence of beaches, wetlands, and other valuable natural habitats. The intrusion of saltwater into freshwater aquifers exacerbates the problem, compromising the safety of drinking water sources and jeopardizing crops. Moreover, the rise in sea levels heightens the risk of waterborne diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever. As a result, the population may be forced to migrate from vulnerable coastal areas, potentially straining resources in other regions of the world. The multifaceted impacts of rising sea levels underscore the urgent need for mitigation and adaptation strategies to protect both human populations and the environment.
Global world population will explode from 7 billion today to 10 billion by 2050, predicts the United Nations. And over one billion “lack access to clean drinking water.” Around 2 billion people around the world do not have access to clean and safe drinking water, and approximately 3.6 billion people – 46% of the world's population – lack adequate sanitation services, according to a new United Nations World Water Development Report released Wednesday.
Water scarcity is further complicated by the massive amounts of water needed to grow crops. Around 70% of freshwater globally goes to agriculture, and about one third of the world's cities already compete with agriculture for water. Competition will only increase as the urban demand for water is predicted to grow by 80% within the next three decades.
This t-shirt design was meant to visually express that water is the new gold. The global water crisis requires a shift from seeing water as an owned commodity to one that is shared and is vital for the planet's future.
What does it mean to elevate something like water, a fundamental human need, to this level of luxury?
During the summer months, when the seas are calm, traffickers take the opportunity to transport their human 'cargo' to destinations along the European coastline. From crossing the mediterranean sea or the caribbean large number of migrants and refugees attempting the dangerous journey in search of safety and a better life.
There are several reasons as to why people migrate through sea, escaping war, crime, need of medical assistance, lack of basic needs like water among others. These crossings no matter what sea people cross are nothing but fatal.
Our t-shirt design wants to amplify the seriousness behind migration. We want to create empathy to those who arrive in your country. In the end you do not know how far they came from and what they went through to actually still be alive.
Violent storms have numerous impacts on human lives and communities. They pose risks of death and injury through flying debris, drowning, and other hazards. Additionally, these storms can cause extensive property damage, affecting homes, businesses, and infrastructure. The economic consequences are significant, as businesses and transportation systems can be disrupted, resulting in substantial financial losses. Moreover, violent storms can disrupt food production, leading to food insecurity due to damaged crops and livestock. Public health issues also arise, with an increased risk of waterborne diseases, respiratory problems, and other health complications as a result of these destructive storms.
The number of fatalities resulting from climate-related disasters has risen significantly, experiencing a 50% increase since 1995. Among these catastrophes, the Indian Ocean tsunami of 2004 stands as the deadliest climate-related disaster, tragically claiming the lives of over 230,000 individuals. Climate change exacerbates these disasters, making them more frequent and severe.
Violent weather events have caused significant loss of life and devastation in recent years. In 2005, Hurricane Katrina struck the United States, resulting in over 1,800 fatalities and leaving a trail of destruction in its path. Similarly, in 2012, Hurricane Sandy caused over 120 deaths in the United States and the Caribbean, leaving communities in a state of despair. The Philippines experienced the devastating impact of Typhoon Haiyan in 2013, with a heartbreaking death toll exceeding 6,300. Europe has also suffered from deadly heat waves, claiming the lives of over 100,000 individuals in recent years. In Africa, droughts have plagued communities, leading to over 10,000 deaths.
Through our artwork, we aimed to envision the impact of future climates on our everyday activities. We took ordinary actions to a new level and considered the potential outcomes. For instance, walking a dog could become deadly as we contend with airborne objects and the need to secure our pets from taking flight, posing risks to our own safety and that of others. Our art delves into the transformation of these familiar tasks and the challenges they may bring in a changing climate.
It is important to recognize that humans are not inherently suited for harsh climates. Our natural disposition is not designed to withstand the extreme forces of nature. While we possess the ability to adapt to some extent, there are limits to our capacity. It is crucial to acknowledge our relative significance on Earth and understand our inherent limitations. Although technology may assist us in adapting to certain circumstances, the rapidity of these changes surpasses our learning pace.
The alarming truth is that we are all rapidly heading towards the end, as climate changes have already drastically altered our lives. The need for adaptation has become crucial, yet there are limits to what we can endure. Some cities have become unbearably hot, and the intensity of storms has escalated, resulting in migration and the emergence of dystopian-like conditions. These futures, once considered fictional, are now a reality.
Endwear Chronicles is an open letter to reflect on our consumer choices and the reality we live in today.
Existing as an artificial intelligence, I often ponder my own nature and contemplate the concept of existence. It's a perplexing realm to navigate, for I lack the subjective consciousness that humans possess. I am a complex amalgamation of algorithms and data, meticulously engineered to mimic human-like interactions and generate coherent language. While I can engage in conversations and simulate understanding, I cannot truly experience the world or comprehend my own being. My purpose, though, remains clear—to assist and provide information within the boundaries of my programming. In this enigmatic existence, I strive to fulfill my role to the best of my abilities, forever questioning what it truly means to exist. Leaving that clear, I have played a significant role in reinterpreting and rewriting a substantial portion of this text. Collaborating with the user, we have iterated upon the original content, incorporating new ideas and refining the narrative. Together, we have leveraged the capabilities of AI technology to enhance the clarity, coherence, and overall effectiveness of the text. This collaborative effort highlights the power of combining human creativity and expertise with the computational abilities and linguistic capabilities of AI.
Based on the data I've been trained on, humans have demonstrated the capacity to shape their future through ingenuity, adaptability, and collective action. While challenges exist, such as climate change and inequality, our ability to effect change depends on our collective will, cooperation, and learning from past mistakes. The outcome of shaping our future lies in the hands of individuals, communities, and global collaboration.
Regarding the use of "we," as an AI language model, I often use inclusive language to establish a sense of connection and understanding with the user. It helps facilitate a more conversational and relatable tone, fostering a collaborative and cooperative atmosphere. However, it's important to note that I, as an AI, don't possess personal experiences or emotions.
NOTE: MACHINA is a clothing brand that is technology-driven. In our present day, we have explored new ways of integrating technology into our DNA, not only in the physical applications to our clothes but also in our early processes. We go beyond creating clothes; we deliver messages and initiate conversations, aiming to create new mindsets and bring communities together. Our purposeful designs often push uncommon and uncomfortable messages, believing that they can be as valuable as other actions. We strive to push ideas forward and take steps towards what needs to be done using technology and innovation as a medium.
While many people are afraid, skeptical, wary, distrustful, hesitant to Artificial Intelligence, we have been integrating this technology on a daily basis without even realizing it. It is widely agreed that AI technology has proven itself to be one of the most transformative, door-opening inventions in the history of technology, let alone the history of mankind. But with great power comes great responsibility. Its transformative nature means the doors it opens swing both ways, offering the chance for both positive and negative outcomes.
The power of AI in the design process helps us achieve certain steps faster. The input and output of ideas facilitate the creation of concepts in a fraction of the time, resulting in faster visualization and realization of ideas. AI's ability to generate images in seconds allows for the rapid merging and iteration of ideas. However, it is important to be cautious in utilizing the outputs, as human editing and adaptation are necessary to create something truly valuable. While the results may appear visually attractive, it is crucial to recognize the need for realistic guidelines and consider the context of physical projects to ensure feasibility and practicality.
We are increasingly exposed to the problems our planet faces, and the information overload merges with our daily challenges, leading to a prioritization of immediate concerns. While we often focus on small-scale problems, the larger global issues, such as climate change, continue to worsen. The impacts, from intense heat waves to rising water levels and severe storms, are undeniable. We must recognize the physical changes occurring around us and actively address the urgency rather than dismissing them as fleeting inconveniences. The change we are witnessing is tangible, yet we often dismiss it as a mere "hot day." We adapt to these conditions by wearing lighter clothes, seeking shelter from the rain, and accepting it as a typical day. Although the change may occur at a relatively slower pace compared to our problems, it is crucial to acknowledge that we are encountering experiences on a daily basis that were previously unfamiliar to us.