In a time of environmental crises, many people embrace zero-waste philosophies and circular economy models. Earning a bachelor’s in sustainability can help prepare professionals to promote these vital efforts.
Sustainable fabrics reduce environmental impact by using less harmful materials during production. These fabrics are also more durable, reducing waste caused by frequent replacement.
Recycled Cotton
Recycled cotton uses existing fibers to create a new fabric. This helps reduce the need for raw materials and reduces water consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This type of fabric also does not require dyeing, which is one of the textile industry’s most polluting processes. It’s also less likely to be contaminated by other materials, making it a great choice for garments that will see a lot of wear and tear.
Most recycled cotton comes from pre-consumer waste, such as off-cuts and yarn that never made it to a final consumer. This is easier to sort than post-consumer waste, which can include a wider range of colors and fiber blends.
When it’s used to produce clothing, recycled cotton can reduce carbon emissions by up to two kilograms per tonne. This is because it does not need the dissolving pulp that traditional fabric production requires, around 40 percent of a typical tree’s cellulose.
In addition, a single tonne of recycled cotton can save up to 760,000 liters of water. This is huge given that the fashion industry uses more water for washing and drying than other sectors, including agriculture. It can also reduce the amount of landfill waste since it is a more sustainable option for discarded clothing and household items. Today, many eco friendly fabric manufacturers are already practicing sustainability in their production.
Bamboo
Bamboo is a very versatile plant that can create an array of products. Its seeds can be eaten as food, the leaves are an important ingredient in some Asian cuisines, and its wood is a key component of traditional Chinese furniture. Its most widespread use, though, is as scaffolding for construction projects. Bamboo can be lashed together to form a more stable and cheaper framework than metal scaffolding. It also has several practical applications for homeowners, including making floors and flooring coverings.
In addition to its economic benefits, bamboo has been praised for its environmental impact. It grows quickly and sequesters carbon, which can help mitigate climate change. Bamboo’s shallow root systems also anchor the soil, reducing erosion. Furthermore, bamboo can regenerate itself – a process known as auto-senescence – which can improve soil health and help reduce nutrient depletion.
Bamboo is a renewable resource with many social, economic, and environmental benefits. Its cultivation can help achieve many of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, particularly poverty alleviation and food security. However, careful consideration must be taken when cultivating bamboo to avoid over-exploitation and potential harm to the local ecosystems. This is why responsible production and sourcing of bamboo is so important.
Lyocell
There is more than one way to skin a cat (or, in this case, fabric), so it’s important to know what makes something “eco-friendly” before investing. Lyocell, commonly known as Tencel, is a semi-synthetic fiber that’s soft to the touch, highly absorbent, and sustainable in its production process. Originally designed as an alternative to silk, this cellulose textile has been on the market since the first few decades of the 20th century and is often used to replace more traditional fabrics like cotton or wool. However, it’s also derived from wood pulp, which can lead to deforestation if the manufacturer uses unsustainable sourcing methods.
Lenzing, the Austrian textile company that makes lyocell, has perfected its manufacturing process to be both eco-friendly and durable. Their closed-loop system recycles solvent, energy, and water, using only wood from sustainable forestry. Additionally, lyocell is fully biodegradable and can be repurposed into conveyor belts, medical dressings, and gowns.
The fabric is woven from the cellulose fibers of fast-growing plants, usually eucalyptus, bamboo, or beech trees. These plants don’t require irrigation or pesticides and are typically grown on land that would otherwise be unusable for crops. Because cellulose fibers are naturally strong, lyocell products don’t lose shape over time and tend to last long when taken care of.
Pineapple Leaf
Pineapple leaf is a natural alternative to leather that is eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and an excellent alternative for sensitive skin. It is also sustainable as it utilizes a process that supports ethical labor and sustainability goals within the fashion industry.
In the Philippines, pineapple fiber is celebrated for its luster and fineness. It is used to produce traditional clothing such as the Barong Tagalog and woven into other garments that showcase its unique properties. It is also used to create pineapple fiber footwear and accessories.
Duong Hai-Minh, a researcher at NUS, has developed an innovative way to reuse pineapple waste fibers to create ultra-light and biodegradable aerogels. These eco-aerogels are effective as oil absorbents and for heat and sound insulation, among other uses. They also have potential applications in food preservation and wastewater treatment, a big step toward sustainable agriculture and waste management.
By repurposing agricultural waste into natural textiles, Pinatex creates a second income stream for pineapple farmers while helping to address climate change and meet sustainability targets. However, it is important to note that pineapple fiber production is on a smaller scale than its traditional and synthetic counterparts, which can impact price. Additionally, the raw material availability depends on factors such as climate and location. Despite these challenges, this eco-friendly material has a lot of promise for the future.
