Greenhouse gases emission has been significantly increased in recent years. The emission of these gases increases the atmospheric temperature. Roads, woods, materials, manufactured goods, fuels and services production and consumption cause greenhouse gas emission. Climate change is an issue that requires the immediate attention of world leaders. Climate change affects your basic needs including food, water and air. The textile industry uses natural fibres. The growth and production of natural fibres are also affected by climate change.
This is the reason why the industry needs to address this issue on a priority basis. This industry also contributes to global warming. Textiles companies also need to ensure the lowest carbon footprint.
Cotton Fibre
The production of 1 kg of cotton requires more than 5500 gallons (20,000 litres) of water. Cotton is planted in 2.4% of the crop land in the world. However, 24% of global insecticide sales is because of cotton. The textile industry is one of the biggest contributors to global pollution. The industry leaves behind a huge 1.3 billion tons of CO2 per year. China and India are the largest manufacturers in the clothing industry. The power plants in both countries use coal as fuel.
However, many textile companies in India have switched to renewable energy. This reduces energy consumption. If more textile companies use renewable energy, the industry can achieve the lowest carbon footprint.
Synthetic Fibre
Synthetic fibre production has significantly increased. Polyester is the most common synthetic fabric. However, the emission is higher in the production of polyester and other synthetic fabrics. The production of synthetic fabric requires crude oil and other fossil fuels. According to a study, manufacturing a polyester t-shirt causes emission of 5.5 kg CO2e. On the other hand, a t-shirt made from cotton causes an emission of 2.1 kg CO2e. However, cotton requires more water. 60% of the clothes produced ends up in the landfill. There are limited recycling options. As the fashion industry is a fast-moving, trend-driven industry, the demand for clothes is high. However, GRS certified yarn is playing a key role in reducing the carbon footprint. Reuse, resale and clothing rental are also good options to make the industry more eco-friendly.
Reducing Carbon Emissions
Using Alternative Fabrics
Most textiles are not good for the environment. Cotton uses more water and pesticides. On the other hand, the annual polyester production in the US requires 70,000,000 barrels of oil. Alternative fabrics include spider silk, hemp and flax. These options are more sustainable. These alternative fabrics offer high-tensile strength and conductivity.
Using Fewer Resources
The growth, procurement and production of traditional textiles require more resources. Acrylic fibre and other synthetic technical textiles require specialized equipment and chemical compounds. Using the exact specification and making small-batches can also reduce carbon emission.
Innovation in Textile Dyes
Dyeing is an important process that has a serious impact on the environment. Technical innovations in this process can also reduce the carbon footprint.
If you want to buy yarn, make sure that it is GRS certified yarn.