Eco-friendly products and concern for the environment are a trend that is only gaining momentum every year.
More than 100 billion textile products are sold worldwide every year. This is all due to so-called fast fashion. This textile over-consumption has a huge environmental cost.
Environmental impact of the textile industry
To understand how the textile industry has become one of the most polluting industries on the planet, it is enough to consider the life cycle of one product.
In order for cotton to grow well and quickly, one plot of land may require up to 20 pesticides. Therefore, ¼ of all pesticides used in the world are associated with cotton cultivation.
Cotton is the main consumer of water in agriculture. To grow cotton for one T-shirt, it will take 2,700 liters. Even very large water resources are depleted.
26% of our clothes are made from cotton, and the main producers are the USA, China and India.
Recycling
Chromium, mercury, lead, copper and cadmium are used daily in factories to dye, soften and wash fabrics.
Transport
Textiles travel a lot. For example, the cotton for jeans may be grown in Uzbekistan, the fabric and tailoring are made in India, and the dyeing is done in the USA. From the field to the store, jeans travel up to 65,000 km! In Western Europe, 50% of clothing is imported, mainly from China.
Usage
Even after textiles are produced and purchased, they continue to have a negative impact on the environment. When washing synthetic fabrics, they break down into microfibers. They are so small that they are not retained by any filter, either in the washing machine or at water purification stations. This is how 500,000 tons of microplastics end up in the ocean every year. Microfibers are toxic, non-biodegradable, and are absorbed by fish, which then end up on our plates.
Disposal
The modern fast fashion industry involves a huge amount of throwaway items. Only 20% of clothing is recycled, and 80% of textiles end up in landfills.
The fashion industry’s environmental awakening
Fashion does not abandon capitalism or globalization. But in the headquarters of major brands, they are now talking about “green innovation” and “supporting biodiversity.” In other words, the search began for a “more environmentally efficient business model.” This change in attitude is due to a number of factors.
Major brands are joining associations that help track their environmental impact. The goal of such associations is to gradually reduce the negative impact of the fashion industry on nature. In 2018, ¾ of them said they had completely removed harmful chemicals from their clothing. The problem is that these enterprises represent only 12.5%, of the textile market.
Brands sponsor a variety of scientific research to create new materials: natural leather, fabric made from fungi, or dyeing textiles with microorganisms. Another fashion trend is upcycling, making new clothes from used ones.
Eco-friendly fabrics
Organic cotton
Certified organic cotton is grown in 22 countries, mainly in Turkey and India, but also in China and the United States. Compared to total cotton production, organic cotton makes up an insignificant 1%.
Biological cotton production emerged in the 1990s. It is in high demand in the markets of Europe and North America. Production is certified by independent organizations; it is carried out without the use of industrial pesticides according to fair trade principles.
Water consumption is lower, and farmers are exposed to less toxic substances. The absence of dyes is the key to a less allergenic effect. But the price of such cotton is higher.
Linen
Linen is an environmentally friendly fiber. Its crop requires very little fertilizer, and, thanks to its very long roots, it does not require irrigation. Linen requires five times fewer pesticides than cotton.
Since all components of flax are biodegradable, products made from this plant are also biodegradable.
Linen is widely used in the textile industry for the manufacture of all types of products: clothing, shoes and bed linen. It is highly regarded by all who advocate responsible fashion.
Hemp
Hemp fiber is one of the strongest fibers that nature has given us. Its cultivation does not require any herbicides, pesticides or chemical fertilizers.
Hemp fiber is extremely durable and was used in ancient times to make ropes and sails. Therefore, all fashion accessories and bags made from hemp are durable. The high density of natural hemp fibers provides protection from ultraviolet radiation, and the fiber does not deteriorate.
Hemp fabric absorbs odors and sweat. When in contact with a humid environment, its fibers quickly absorb moisture and also quickly evaporate it, which allows the hemp product to remain warm in winter and cool in summer. It also has antibacterial properties; it can stop the growth of bacteria and fungi.
The Basics of Conscious Consumption
- Think again before buying; do you really need this new thing?
- Look at the composition. Ideally, you should prefer Eco-friendly products. And organic cotton.
- Pay attention to care labels and follow their recommendations, so your products will last longer.
- Textiles can have a second life. Don’t throw away, donate to charitable associations, or resell.
- Don’t chase fast-changing fashion, either in your wardrobe or in your interior. Adhere to the principles of reasonable consumption.
FAQs
What are Eco-friendly products?
Eco-friendly products are items that are designed and manufactured with the goal of minimizing their negative impact on the environment. These products are made using sustainable materials, production methods, and packaging, and they promote green living and reduce resource consumption.
What is an example of Eco-friendly products?
Here are some examples of Eco-friendly products:
- Clothes are made from recycled Fabric.
- Sustainable shopping bags.
- Stainless-Steel Water Bottle.
- LED bulbs.
Are Eco-friendly products good?
Eco-friendly products are generally considered to be good for the environment and can have several benefits. These products are designed to have a lower impact on the environment throughout their life cycle.
Is it easy to be Eco-friendly?
Being Eco-friendly is a conscious choice that involves making environmentally responsible decisions in our everyday lives. While it may require some effort and adjustments, it is definitely possible and worthwhile.
Eco-Friendly Organic Cotton Pillow, View On Amazon