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The world is at a turning point in fashion. Sustainable fashion, once considered a niche, has gained momentum and is transforming the way we perceive and consume clothing. As the buzz around sustainable fabrics grows, so does the confusion and misinformation. This blog aims to demystify the top five myths surrounding sustainable fabrics and provide clarity on the reality of the most popular materials in this category.
List of Sustainable Fabrics
When we define sustainable fabric, it is imperative to know the source of the material, the way it is procured, and the growing process. Some fabrics require processing before using them. Few fabrics involve bleaching and other chemical processes, making them unhealthy for the environment. The last point of consideration is how the textile is disposed? If it ends up hampering the environment, it definitely cannot be categorised as a sustainable fabric.
Here is a list of sustainable fabrics that make your wardrobe ethical.
Organic Cotton
Grown without the use of harmful chemicals, organic cotton significantly reduces water consumption and soil erosion. It supports sustainable farming practices and does not rely on genetically modified organisms. It uses 62% less energy and 88% less water than conventional cotton.
Recycled Cotton
Derived from post-consumer cotton waste, recycled cotton extends the lifespan of this natural fiber and reduces waste in landfills. It requires less water and energy compared to virgin cotton production. Despite several certifications and regulations, it is hard to know the source of recycled cotton.
Organic Hemp
Hemp is a rapidly renewable resource that requires minimal water and pesticides to grow. It is known for its durability and biodegradability, making it an eco-friendly fabric choice. Organic hemp is healthy for the soil and requires less water. However, it is tough to grow and slightly more expensive than other sustainable fabrics.
Organic Linen
Made from flax plant fibers, organic linen is breathable, hypoallergenic, and biodegradable. Linen production has a lower environmental impact compared to other fabrics. The growth of this fiber requires fewer fertilizers and irrigation.
Organic Bamboo
Bamboo is a fast-growing plant that consumes more carbon dioxide than some other trees. It survives on rainfall and doesn’t require pesticides or fertilizers. There are multiple processes used to obtain organic bamboo fabric. It produces soft and breathable fabric with natural antimicrobial properties.
Recycled Fabrics
Utilizing post-consumer or post-industrial waste, recycled fabrics reduce the need for new raw materials and conserve energy. Examples include polyester made from recycled plastic bottles and nylon made from recycled fishing nets.
Read more: Natural v/s Man-made Fabrics
Five Myths About Sustainable Fabrics
There is a hullabaloo over eco-friendly fashion. The market trend is shifting - sustainable fabrics are gaining popularity among buyers. Nonetheless, confusion remains on this subject matter. Some assume these fabrics to be exorbitant, ugly, or boring.
Today, we will be busting five myths about sustainable fabrics.
1. Cotton is a Sustainable Fabric
Sustainable fabric refers to any fabric obtained from eco-friendly resources. They have sustainably grown crops or come from recycled materials. One of the major misbeliefs we would like to put to rest is that cotton is a sustainable material. It is considered a resource-hungry crop since it is one of the thirstiest crops in the world. Cotton is a cash crop, so farmers use excessive amounts of chemicals to ensure a good harvest. The excessive use of pesticides leads to soil degradation and water contamination.
However, better alternatives exist, like organic cotton and recycled cotton.
Read more: Difference Between Cotton and Cotton Blend
2. Sustainable Fashion is for The Privileged People
Eco-friendly fabrics don't only cater to the affluent class. Although sustainable brands are indeed expensive as compared to fast fashion brands. But it can be possible that the prices of fast fashion clothes are economical due to the manufacturers cutting corners during production. In addition to providing living wages and reducing carbon footprints, sustainable brands also give benefits to their workers! All these reasons make the supply chain cost increase.
3. Vegan leather is Sustainable
Even though vegan leather is cruel- free it doesn’t mean it is sustainable. It is a common practice to use artificial materials like PVC and PU. These synthetic materials take many years to decompose. It also emits pollutants like chlorines and dioxins.
Animal lovers might rejoice in using vegan leather, but it is hard to claim whether it is earth-friendly or not? It is complex and more research is required in this domain.
4. Expensive Brands are Sustainable
People correlate the cost to eco-friendly fashion. They believe that the costlier the apparel, the more ecological it is. Luxury brands might not necessarily be more sustainable or ethical. Few parallels are drawn between fast fashion brands and luxury brands.
Luxury brands mostly try to bring out an exotic collection. They often use fur, genuine leather, reptile skin, and cashmere. Animal-based textile represents prestige. From handbags to coats and other accessories all are made of exotic skins and are highly priced. But these high prices do not mean they are eco-friendly.
Read more: What to Check While Buying Natural Fabrics?
5. Sustainable Fashion is Boring
Individuals often associate sustainable fashion with basic and boring choices. They feel eco-friendly fabrics don’t make trendy looks. Mostly, sustainable fashion is based on essentials. However, some sustainable brands are catering to trendy fashion.
Even though sustainable brands are not flamboyant, they are more sophisticated and minimal. One can never go wrong with these brands.
Conclusion
Sustainability is not an end goal but a journey. This journey constantly compels the community to realign with nature and its needs. Our main takeaway from this should be to abandon the all-or-nothing mentality. As individuals, we cannot live 100% sustainably. By choosing sustainable materials and questioning myths, we can all contribute to a more ethical and environmentally friendly fashion industry. The future of fashion lies in sustainability, and with the right information, we can all make better choices for a greener tomorrow.
Read more: How will Fashion Look Like in the Future
FAQs about Sustainable Fabric
1. What defines sustainable fabric?
Ans: Sustainable fabric is sourced ethically, involves eco-friendly growing processes, minimal processing, and is disposed of responsibly.
2. What are some examples of sustainable fabrics?
Ans: Examples include organic cotton, recycled cotton, organic hemp, organic linen, organic bamboo, and recycled fabrics.
3. Is cotton considered a sustainable fabric?
Ans: While conventional cotton poses challenges due to its resource-intensive nature, alternatives like organic and recycled cotton offer more sustainable options with reduced environmental impact.
4. Are sustainable fashion brands only for the wealthy?
Ans: No, sustainable fashion brands prioritise fair wages, environmental responsibility, and worker benefits, making them accessible to a broader range of consumers who value ethical practices.
5. Is vegan leather always sustainable?
Ans: While vegan leather is cruelty-free, it often relies on synthetic materials like PVC and PU, which can have negative environmental effects. However, advancements in eco-friendly materials are leading to more sustainable alternatives in vegan leather production.