The term sustainable materials, in a broad sense, refers to materials that can be sourced without depletion of non-renewable resources and that can be produced, used and disposed of in required quantities without causing harm to both people and the environment. While natural materials have often been labeled as the “good” and more sustainable alternative to synthetic materials, it is important to recognize that social and environmental impacts of all materials vary, depending on where they come from and how they are produced, used and discarded. Recent innovations have led to the development of a range of new recycled, recyclable, bio-based, biodegradable, paper-based or compostable materials, which tend to be promoted as the preferable, sustainable options. However, there is still a significant lack of comparable data on their technical properties as well as on their environmental impacts, to support such claims.(2) To assess the environmental potential of any material, it is essential to consider the full lifecycle impact of the material choice. The selection of the right material for the right application, the traceability of the supply chain to enable monitoring of raw fiber sourcing and manufacturing processes, including the use of chemicals, product distribution, laundering and clothing care practices, and also how fashion products are disposed of at their end of life, all must come into the equation.(1,2) Material sustainability is therefore complex and always context dependent, and both conventional and new materials have the potential to reduce the environmental and social impacts of material choices under the right conditions.(1) Yet, no material can be the “sustainable solution” for the industry if the current trends in volume and scale of production and overconsumption of fashion remain unchanged.(1-6)
SUSTAINABLE MATERIALS
