Textile Exchange: ‘no perfect source’ for biosynthetics
US-based non-profit Textile Exchange, which advocates for preferred fibres and materials and sustainability-minded industry standards, has backed biosynthetics, but cautioned that such materials “must be treated with care and nuance”.
After conducting research alongside its associated Biosynthetics Round Table, the non-profit established that the fibres have a role to play in designing a more regenerative and circular textile and fashion industry, when used responsibly.
The findings emphasised that “there is no one perfect source” for biosynthetic fibres and said that they can and should be produced from a diverse range of crops and agricultural residues.
Additionally, the authors underscored the need to assess each source’s environmental impact according to its regional, production and technological context, as well as evaluate data beyond conventional life-cycle assessments to better understand overall impact.
The report further discussed how both biosynthetics and recycled polyester currently offer a route for the industry to meet its climate targets and stated that it is not necessary to choose one over the other. Rather, it recommended, visions for a closed-loop future must also factor in the development of recycled biosynthetics.
A wheat field in Eugene, Oregon. Credit: Melissa Askew via Unsplash
