If you are in the business of making clothes or are considering setting up a new clothing business, then you might be interested in using sustainable fabrics. Using organic fabrics means less impact on the environment thanks to reduced chemicals and a substantial reduction in the use of energy and water.
Non-biodegradable fabrics have a harmful impact on the environment, with the fashion industry estimated to be responsible for around twenty percent of global water pollution. Production of clothing involves the use of a variety of carcinogenic chemicals as well, from which toxins are often dumped into the ocean.
Since sustainable fabrics are biodegradable, they do not cause land or water pollution. They are made using far fewer natural resources such as energy and water, making them better for the environment. To that end, below are a few of the most eco-friendly fabrics.
Organic Cotton
Organic cotton is produced without any harmful chemicals or pesticides and is made from natural fibers. Its moisture-wicking properties and breathability makeit comfortable to wear and a top choice for eco-friendly clothing. However, it does require quite a bit of water in growth and production and is quite expensive to buy.
Organic Hemp
According to CedarStoneIndustry, manufacturers ofhemp extractionequipment, there is no chemical processing needed to make this natural fiber. Hemp is a hardy plant that requires little to no pesticides and can be grown in various environments. The production of hemp requires three times less water than is needed for cotton production. It is a biodegradable fabric, ideal for use in the production of outerwearthanks to its strong and durable fibers. It can be blended with other softer fabrics for hardwearing yet comfortable clothing.
Organic Linen
Linen is a plant-based fiber, coming from the flax plant. Although the production of linen does require mechanical processing, carbon emissions are far lower than in the production of some other fabrics, such as polyester or nylon. Linen production also requires minimal water, making it an eco-friendly fabric. Linen is lightweight yet durable and is perfect for spring and summer fashions.
Recycled Polyester
Recycled polyester is made using old plastic bottles. The production of a fabric out of what would have otherwise sat in landfill sites around the world makes this extremely eco-friendly. Emissions are massively reduced because there is no need for raw materials and there is no oil extraction, which is very energy intensive. It is important to remember though that, like traditional polyester, there is a risk of microplastics being released during the wash cycle. To prevent this from happening, it is recommended that clothing made from recycled polyester be washed in a special bag designed to prevent microplastics polluting waterways. Recycled polyester is often used in the production of sportswear and loungewear.
Which Fabrics are Not Eco Friendly?
Acrylic
Although acrylic is a soft and warm fabric that is used for hats, gloves, and sweaters, the production of this fabric involves the use of a variety of toxic chemicals which are not only harmful for the environment but also for those who produce the fabric. It can take acrylic around two hundred years to biodegrade as well.
Polyester
Polyester has long been a popular fabric in the fashion industry, but it takes years for it to biodegrade and, because it is produced using oil, is damaging to the environment. Polyester production also involves the use of massive amounts of water and because microplastics are released during production and when the clothing is washed, it is responsible for water pollution and damage to marine life. Any excess water released during production typically contains dyes that are harmful to the environment.
