By Dr. Sulekha Ojha, Senior Assistant Professor, IIS (deemed to be University), Jaipur, Department of Fashion & Textiles
Dr Sulekha Ojha
Nonwoven materials’ adaptability, effectiveness, and promise for environmental friendliness are making them a key component of sustainable fashion. Nonwovens provide a viable answer that is consistent with sustainability ideals as the fashion sector works to lessen its environmental impact. The three main facets of nonwovens-based sustainable fashion need to be thoroughly examined in this analysis: biodegradable nonwovens, recycled nonwovens, and environmentally friendly dyes and printing.
Recycled Nonwovens: Creating Wearables Out of Waste
Process: The process of creating recycled nonwoven fabrics starts with the collection of post-consumer plastic waste, primarily plastic bottles. These bottles are collected, cleaned, and shredded into tiny flakes. The flakes are then melted and extruded into fibres. These fibres are processed into nonwoven fabric sheets, which can be further treated, dyed, and cut into desired patterns for garment manufacturing. This method transforms waste materials into high-quality fabrics that can be used in various fashion applications.
Environmental Benefits: Recycled nonwoven materials have a big positive impact on the environment. By keeping plastic trash out of the ocean and landfills, they lessen pollution and the demand for the manufacture of virgin polyester. Using recycled materials conserves energy and water, which are valuable resources that are used in the creation of virgin polyester. Furthermore, reducing greenhouse gas emissions through the recycling of plastic bottles into nonwoven textiles aids in the battle against climate change.
Case Study: The Reveal of Unifi
One of the top brands of recycled polyester fiber is Unifi’s REPREVE. The firm encourages a sustainable approach to textile production by using recycled plastic bottles to manufacture nonwoven textiles. Unifi has worked with fashion companies like Nike and Patagonia to develop sustainable clothing designs made with REPREVE fibers. These collaborations demonstrate the practicality and popularity of eco-friendly textiles and show the rising trend of combining recycled materials into mainstream design.
Biodegradable Nonwovens: A Solution Found in Nature for Fashion
Procedure: The main source of natural fibers for biodegradable nonwovens is wood pulp, hemp, and bamboo. These fibers are turned into pulp during the production process, which is subsequently turned into sheets of nonwoven fabric using methods like air-laying or spin bonding. These techniques provide fabrics that offer the advantages of nonwoven textiles while preserving the inherent qualities of the source ingredients.
Environmental Benefits: The primary benefit of biodegradable nonwovens is their natural environmental breakdown. The two main environmental issues connected to synthetic fibers—landfill waste and microplastic pollution—are greatly reduced by this feature. The manufacture of biodegradable nonwovens frequently involves less chemical inputs, thus reducing their environmental effect. Biodegradable nonwovens are an environmentally friendly option for fashion since they are made from renewable materials and produce textiles that are regenerative.
Case Study: Tencel by Lenzing
Lenzing’s Tencel is a cellulose-based fibre produced from sustainably sourced wood pulp. Tencel fibres are used to create biodegradable nonwoven fabrics suitable for various fashion applications, including innerwear and casual wear. The environmentally friendly production process of Tencel uses a closed-loop system to recycle water and solvents. Lenzing’s commitment to sustainability makes Tencel a popular choice for brands seeking eco-friendly materials.
Eco-Friendly Printing and Dyeing: A Vibrant and Organized Method The method of traditional textile dying requires a lot of water and chemicals. But new developments in dyeing technology have brought forth the creation of environmentally friendly substitutes. As environmentally friendly alternatives, natural colors made from plants, minerals, and insects are being investigated. Additionally, low-impact synthetic dyes have been developed to reduce the environmental impact of dyeing processes. Digital printing techniques are another innovation, reducing water consumption and chemical usage compared to traditional screen printing methods.
