Recycled Plastic Bottles... All Over Your Skin...

Using recycled plastic bottles in clothing has become a trend for promoting sustainability. The idea behind it is to reduce waste and promote sustainability by using recycled materials. Sounds great right? Maybe not. It’s time we look behind the scenes at what’s really going on.

The process of producing recycled polyester fabric, made from plastic bottles, involves breaking down the bottles into small chips, which are then melted and spun into yarn. This process requires a significant amount of energy and emits greenhouse gases, contributing to the environmental impact of clothing production. Production typically involves using chemicals and dyes that can harm both workers and the environment. Additionally, plastic fibers from synthetic fabrics release microplastics during washing, which can enter our waterways and food chain. Research has shown that these microplastics can have adverse effects on our health, including hormone disruption, immune system suppression, and even cancer.

Moreover, recycled polyester clothing is not biodegradable, and it still contributes heavily to textile waste. It doesn't address the issue of over consumption and fast fashion, which is the primary cause of waste in the fashion industry. Instead, it's necessary to shift towards more sustainable and natural materials such as organic cotton, linen, or wool, which are biodegradable and less harmful to the environment and our health.

In conclusion, fabric made from recycled plastic bottles may seem like an eco-friendly solution, but may not be the best for the environment and definitely not for our health. It's crucial to make conscious choices and support sustainable and ethical fashion practices when possible. Ultimately, we need to make an effort to reduce our consumption and choose natural materials to minimize waste in the fashion industry. By doing so, we can take a step forward towards a sustainable and healthy future.