Recycled Polyester and its Impact on the Environment

Recycled polyester has been a buzzword in the textile industry for quite some time now. As people become more conscious of the environmental impact of their choices, there has been a growing demand for sustainable materials. Recycled polyester, made from recycled plastic bottles, is often touted as an eco-friendlier alternative to traditional polyester. But what is the current state of recycled polyester in the textile industry, and how does it impact the environment? Let's explore.

First, let's take a closer look at polyester. Polyester is a synthetic fiber made from petroleum, a non-renewable resource. It is one of the most used fibers in the textile industry because it is inexpensive, durable, and wrinkle resistant. However, traditional polyester production requires a significant amount of energy and generates greenhouse gases during the manufacturing process.

Recycled polyester, on the other hand, is made from post-consumer plastic bottles. The bottles are collected, cleaned, and broken down into chips, which are then melted and spun into yarn. This process requires less energy and generates fewer greenhouse gases compared to traditional polyester production.

So, what is the current state of recycled polyester in the textile industry? According to a report by Textile Exchange, the global production of recycled polyester reached 2.5 million tons in 2019, up from 0.3 million tons in 2008. This is a significant increase, but it still only accounts for about 14% of total polyester production. Most polyester is still made from virgin materials.

While the use of recycled polyester is a step in the right direction, it is not a perfect solution. One of the main concerns is microplastic pollution. When recycled polyester garments are washed, tiny plastic fibers shed and end up in our waterways and oceans. These microplastics are harmful to marine life and can eventually make their way up the food chain.

Another issue is the recycling process itself. While recycling plastic bottles into polyester is a great way to repurpose waste, it is not a closed loop system. Eventually, the recycled polyester will reach the end of its life and need to be disposed of. At this point, it may end up in a landfill or incinerator, creating more waste and emissions.

So, what can we do to mitigate these issues? First, we can reduce our overall consumption of polyester and opt for natural fibers such as cotton or linen. When polyester is necessary, choosing recycled polyester is a more sustainable option. Second, we can wash our clothes less frequently and invest in a microfiber-catching laundry ball or bag to prevent microplastic pollution. Finally, we can support brands and companies that are transparent about their supply chains and are committed to sustainable practices.

Recycled polyester has made strides in the textile industry, but there is still a long way to go. As consumers, we know we can make a difference by choosing sustainable materials and supporting companies that prioritize the environment. By working together, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all. And for those companies making huge leaps and bounds, shout out to Lululemon for investing in plant based nylon, and Geno, their partner. Check out the article! https://corporate.lululemon.com/media/our-stories/2023/lululemon-introduces-first-renewably-sourced-plant-based-nylon-products.

A guiding principle for us at The Squad is innovation. Innovation in apparel, medical, wearable and materials can take many forms, such as creating new silhouettes or designs, experimenting with new materials or fabrication techniques, or incorporating new technologies such as smart fabrics or devices. Our goal is to create products that meet the needs of your consumers in new and unique ways and that stand out in the marketplace. If you need support with innovation, check us out, The Squad Nation.