Top 5 Eco-Friendly Fabrics for Sustainable Fashion: A Guide to Green Choices
Published Wednesday, August 7, 2024 By Melissa Harper
3. Recycled Polyester
Recycled polyester, also known as rPET, is made by repurposing existing plastic materials, mainly from plastic bottles. This process reduces the demand for new petroleum, minimizing the carbon footprint associated with polyester production.
The conversion of plastic into fabric involves cleaning, shredding, and melting the plastic to form new fibers. These fibers are then spun into yarn and woven into fabrics. Recycled polyester retains similar properties to virgin polyester, such as durability and resistance to wrinkles.
Recycled polyester is used in a wide range of clothing items, from activewear to everyday apparel. It helps divert plastic waste from landfills and oceans, contributing to environmental conservation. While creating recycled polyester requires energy, using existing plastics can result in less environmental impact compared to producing new polyester from scratch.
Recycled polyester is also versatile and can be blended with other fibers to enhance fabric performance. This makes it a popular choice for sustainable fashion brands seeking eco-friendly alternatives. By choosing garments made from recycled polyester, consumers can support the reduction of plastic waste and promote more sustainable fashion practices.
4. Tencel Lyocell
Tencel Lyocell is a popular eco-friendly fabric in sustainable fashion. Made from sustainably sourced wood pulp, primarily from eucalyptus trees, it is manufactured using a closed-loop process. This method recycles water and solvents, minimizing environmental impact.
The fibers produced are soft, breathable, and strong. Tencel Lyocell’s moisture-wicking properties make it ideal for activewear as it keeps the wearer dry and comfortable. This fabric also resists wrinkles, making it a practical choice for everyday clothing.
Biodegradability is another key feature of Tencel Lyocell. Once it reaches the end of its life cycle, it can decompose naturally without leaving harmful residues. This aligns well with the principles of circular fashion and zero waste.
Moreover, Tencel Lyocell requires less water and energy to produce compared to conventional cotton. Its production process avoids harmful chemicals, which benefits both the workers and the environment. This fabric is a versatile option in the path toward sustainable fashion.
5. Bamboo Lyocell
Bamboo Lyocell is made from bamboo pulp, processed using a closed-loop system that minimizes waste. This method recycles water and solvents, making it more sustainable. The fabric is soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic, which makes it comfortable to wear, especially for sensitive skin.
It has natural moisture-wicking properties, keeping the wearer dry and comfortable. This makes it suitable for activewear and undergarments. Bamboo Lyocell is also biodegradable, contributing to a lesser environmental footprint compared to synthetic fabrics.
The production of Bamboo Lyocell uses fewer chemicals than traditional methods, reducing pollution. It also requires less water than cotton, making it an efficient choice in terms of resource usage. The fabric can be dyed easily, supporting vibrant colors without excessive water or dye use.