Sustainability in fashion is gaining momentum as consumers increasingly prioritize environmental and social responsibility.
2023 saw a significant decline in interest in sustainability in fashion, with 44% of Brits saying they were less interested in sustainable fashion in 2023 compared to 2022. 2023 also saw a significant increase in the number of people who said they would not buy from a brand that did not offer sustainable fashion options. 2024, however, has seen a resurgence in interest in sustainability in fashion, with 57% of Brits now saying they see sustainability as important for fashion.
The Rise of Sustainability in Fashion
In recent years, the fashion industry has faced increasing pressure to adopt sustainable practices. The industry’s environmental impact has been a major concern, with the production and disposal of clothing contributing to greenhouse gas emissions, water pollution, and waste management issues.
Polyurethane is a chemical-based product derived from petroleum-based materials. Thus, most mainstream vegan leathers are non-biodegradable and cannot be recycled. While there are alternatives to PU leather, they are still not always biodegradable and have varying levels of sustainability. Vegan leather alternatives are emerging as a more sustainable option. Some of these alternatives include: 1. Piñatex: A non-woven material made from pineapple leaf fibers. 2. Mushroom leather: A material made from mycelium (mushroom roots) and agricultural waste. 3. Orange Fiber: A material made from citrus peels. 4. Apple leather: A material made from apple pomace (apple skins and cores). 5. Hemp leather: A material made from hemp fibers. Flax leather: A material made from flax fibers.
The Problem of Dioxin in PVC
Dioxin is a toxic byproduct of the PVC manufacturing process, which involves the reaction of chlorine and organic compounds. The production of PVC is a significant source of dioxin emissions, with the chemical being released into the air and water during the manufacturing process. This has led to widespread contamination of the environment, with dioxin being found in soil, water, and air in many parts of the world.
