Making the switch to eco-friendly clothing may not be easy, considering the lower prices of apparel that may be harmful for the environment.
In Part 1 (of a 2 part series), we outline the environmental problems of producing clothing materials that we take for granted. (In Part 2, we will discuss alternative solutions).
Part 1:
The manufacturing process of conventional fabrics doesn't take into account the harmful effects on the environment.
- Cotton - uses lots and lots of pesticides and fertilizers rich in nitrogen. One cotton t-shirt can use 1/3 of a pound of chemicals
- Synthetics - petroleum-based chemicals are used and a tonne of energy is wasted to produce them
- Wool - livestock may be dipped in pesticides, given hormones and anti-biotics. To clean the wool, harsh detergents may be used
- Rayon - manufacturing process uses lots of water and chemicals and wood pulp is wasted. A product called Tencel is better for the environment
- Dyes - used on garments but contain chemicals and metals that may end up in wastewater
Source:
Article by Edward M. Eveld titled "Commit to 'greener' clothing"
