Why You Should Avoid Polyester When Buying Clothes
A new report highlights how the fashion industry’s reliance on synthetic materials like polyester worsens plastic pollution.
The fashion industry is facing a significant challenge. According to a new report from the Changing Markets Foundation, many clothing brands are increasing their use of synthetic materials like polyester, which are derived from fossil fuels. This not only contributes to microplastic pollution but also exacerbates the climate crisis.
The Fashion Industry’s Dependence on Synthetic Materials
Synthetic fibers such as polyester have become popular due to their low cost and practical properties like durability and water resistance. However, producing polyester and other synthetic fabrics required 342 million barrels of oil in 2017 alone. As these clothes are worn or washed, microplastics from the fibers end up in oceans, the air, and even our food chain.
The report reveals that major fashion houses like Inditex (Zara) and PVH (Calvin Klein) are among the biggest offenders, while fast-fashion giant Shein tops the list with 82% synthetic materials in its production.
Microplastics and Climate Impact
In 2019, microplastics from clothing alone contributed 8.3 million tons of plastic pollution globally. These tiny particles from synthetic fibers not only contaminate oceans but can also enter human lungs and bloodstream.
At the same time, producing synthetic materials releases significant amounts of CO₂. While many brands have pledged to reduce their reliance on plastic, the report shows that few are living up to their promises.
Solutions for a Sustainable Future
Some brands, like Reformation and Hugo Boss, are taking steps to minimize their use of synthetic fabrics. Reformation, for instance, has set a goal of using only 1% synthetic materials by 2025. However, many other brands continue to neglect their responsibility.
The report calls on the fashion industry to take concrete steps to reduce plastic pollution, including:
- Measurable Reductions: Cut the use of fossil-based materials by 20% by 2025 and 50% by 2030.
- Microplastic Focus: Establish limits on how much microplastic clothing can release over its lifespan.
- Transparent Communication: End misleading marketing and inform consumers about the environmental impact of their clothing.
The Role of Consumers
Consumers can also be part of the solution by choosing clothes made from natural materials, buying fewer items, and embracing reuse. The fashion industry is driven by demand, and by changing our habits, we can push the industry to take responsibility.
The fashion industry is the world’s third-largest consumer of plastic. The report calls for action from both companies and consumers to end the reliance on fossil-based materials. Only by acting now can we reduce the enormous environmental impact of the fashion industry.
