Sustainable Materials: Materials to Look Out for When Buying Clothes

Introduction

One of the most pressing issues in the fast-fashion industry is the materials used in its products. For instance, polyester, a widely used material, is a primary concern: its production consumed a staggering 70 million barrels of oil in 2015. This unsustainable consumption has prompted brands to move away from conventional materials. In this article, we will highlight the materials these brands use, transforming sustainable fashion and empowering us, the consumer, to be part of the solution.

Understanding the Need for Innovation

First, we need to evaluate the impact of traditional materials. As previously discussed, conventional materials have adverse social and environmental effects. Materials like polyester and cotton pose dangers to the planet and its inhabitants.

Polyester is a synthetic material made from oil and is widely used throughout the fast fashion industry. The material creates pollution from the energy used to produce polyester, which emits considerable amounts of CO2 and material management across its supply chain can also cause soil and water pollution. Furthermore, little recycled polyester is used in garment production. Most polyester used in clothing is virgin polyester – less than 1% of collated textiles are recycled back into production. This means this polluting cycle continues, and we are no closer to ‘closing the loop’ in polyester use.

Cotton farming presents a significant problem due to pesticide use, high water consumption, and the conversion of natural habitats into farmland. For instance, the fast fashion industry uses approximately 2.5% of the world’s farmland for cotton production. These production methods harm the environment, polluting the local ecosystem and contaminating food and water supplies.

As a result, consumers and fashion brands alike have been actively seeking sustainable materials. Our increasing demand for eco-friendly products is driving this change and innovation. We, as consumers, have the power to shape the future of fashion by supporting brands committed to sustainability.

Recycled Materials

One example of this drive for change is the use of recycled materials. Recycled materials aren’t just a feel-good trend; it’s a significant step towards reducing our environmental footprint. Using recycled materials reduces CO2 emissions by up to 80%, as well as chemical and water usage. These materials are sourced from used clothes and other items, giving them a new lease on life and reducing the need for new polyester or cotton production. We’re not just making a fashion statement by choosing products made from recycled materials. We’re making a sustainable choice.

One brand that is leading the way in using recycled materials is Patagonia. The company is a pioneer in sustainability and argues that utilising recycled materials extends the lifespan of existing fibres, uses fewer environmental resources, and maintains a soft, comfortable feel. The use of recycled materials by one of the most prominent outdoor fashion brands proves that harmful material consumption does not have to be the norm in fashion production.

Organic and Natural Fibres

An alternative to using recycled materials is utilising organic or natural fibres. For instance, organic cotton is considered one of the most sustainable materials for garment production. It undergoes a less harsh production process, is less environmentally harmful, and is of higher quality. Many sustainable fashion brands choose to use GOTS-certified cotton. The Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) is the leading textile processing standard for organic fibres globally. This independent body ensures that organic cotton is sustainably produced and workers receive a fair living wage.

Thought Clothing uses organic cotton in its clothing. The company has a dedicated section on its website for Organic Cotton Clothing, showing that you can fill your wardrobe without relying on fast fashion brands. Next time you are looking for a new garment, please consider buying it from a brand that uses organic cotton.

Innovative Bio-based Materials

Bio-based materials are derived from renewable biological resources, namely plants, animals, and microorganisms, instead of non-renewable fossil fuels. These materials are gaining traction as substitutes for traditional synthetic materials in various industries, including fashion, construction, and packaging, due to their potential to reduce environmental impact and promote sustainability. By utilising resources that can be naturally replenished, bio-based materials contribute to the conservation of fossil fuel resources and have the potential to lower greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, these materials often offer biodegradable and compostable properties, furthering their potential to support a more sustainable and circular economy.

One such material is Piñatex, a sustainable alternative to leather made from pineapple leaf fibres. As it is made from pineapple leaves, a part of the plant considered waste, it utilises agricultural waste, reducing the landfill burden. Piñatex, therefore, requires no additional land, water, or pesticides. Brands such as Nae Vegan Shoes sell Piñatex products such as belts and sandals, demonstrating that you don’t need harmful materials to create great garments.

Conclusion

The traditional materials used have a drastic and harmful impact on our environment and the communities involved in the production process. Throughout this article, we have delved into specific examples of materials with differing ecological and social costs. As you search for your next fashion purchase, you must consider supporting brands that prioritise using innovative and sustainable materials. Additionally, staying informed about sustainable fashion practices is crucial in making mindful purchasing decisions. By actively supporting ethical brands, we can collectively make a significant impact within the fashion industry, promoting positive change for the environment and the people involved in clothing production.

Discover how we’re pioneering a movement towards sustainability and ethical practices in the fashion industry. Our mission is to connect you with brands that value the environment and human rights just as much as you do.