Shein and Forever 21 are combining forces to expand their reach—the deal is a win for fast fashion, but a loss for the environment

Items in Shein-labeled packaging. (Credit: Jade Gao—AFP/Getty Images)

Fast fashion: 1. Environment: 0.

Shein and Forever 21 are joining forces in a deal that will expand their reach and influence in the retail world. The union is a win for the Asian and American fast fashion leaders as the two battle competitors like Uniqlo, Temu, and Zara, but the deal will come at a cost to the environment, already under stress.