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Karen Pearson
Professor of Science & Mathematics at FIT, Chair of the Sustainability Council, and Leader in Sustainable Innovation
Meet The Changemaker
Karen Pearson is a professor, researcher, and sustainability leader dedicated to advancing environmental responsibility through science and education. As a Professor of Science & Mathematics at the Fashion Institute of Technology and Chair of FIT's Sustainability Council, she helps connect scientific research with real-world solutions for the fashion and textile industries. Her work encourages students, businesses, and communities to think critically about sustainability.
Why Their Work Matters
Building a more sustainable fashion industry requires more than better materials, it also depends on education, collaboration, and informed decision-making. Karen promotes scientific thinking and sustainability across higher education while helping future professionals understand the environmental impact of the fashion industry. Her leadership demonstrates how research and education can inspire meaningful action toward a more responsible future.
The Conversation
In our conversation, Karen Pearson shares her perspective on the role of science and education in creating a more sustainable fashion industry. We discuss the importance of collaboration, preparing future sustainability leaders, and how research can help address today's environmental challenges while driving innovation for the future.
As a chemist working within the fashion industry, how has your scientific background influenced the way you approach sustainability challenges in fashion?
"My background in chemistry has given me insights into the scale and scoop of impact resulting from chemical processes used in the textile/garment industry. These processes/chemicals have a direct impact on the environment and those working in production.
Additionally, there can be post production impact on the environment and consumers from byproducts of these chemicals. This understanding has led to my efforts around innovation in processes and new materials that support the textile/fashion industry."
Many people think of fashion as a creative field rather than a scientific one. Why do you believe science plays such an important role in building a more sustainable fashion industry?
"I believe that our best solutions to our global challenges are ones that come from collaboration and involve multiple stakeholders. The intersection of science and design is a perfect example of this."
Through your work at FIT, you've helped educate the next generation of fashion professionals. What sustainability concepts do you think every student entering the fashion industry should understand?
"I feel like understanding the full product life cycle (LCA) and impacts of all choices from raw materials to production (both process and location) to use and then end of life is key. Additionally, I feel like knowledge and understanding of key pillars of sustainability and circularity is key."
New materials and innovations are emerging rapidly, from bio-based textiles to advances in recycling. Which developments are you most excited about and why?
"Honestly, I am excited about all of the innovations and explorations in this space. Some examples are not as practical as others but all the energy and effort demonstrates both an excitement for innovation and understanding that current materials and production methods are not sustainable.
I am most excited about bio materials and specifically those that offer solutions to petroleum based products."
If you could change one thing about the way the fashion industry approaches sustainability today, what would it be?
"Such a challenging question as not one thing alone will change the true impact of the entire industry. I would like to see the pathway for production using new materials and new methods designed to reduce impact on the environment be easier. I think this effort needs to be supported by consumers, not just the brands."
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