Introduction
As the sun returns and holidays are being booked once again, swimwear is back in our shopping baskets. The fashion industry, known for its negative environmental impact, has seen a rise in sustainable swimwear options. Innovations in the textiles industry have made it possible to create swimwear that is both stylish and eco-friendly. In this article, we will explore the most ethical and innovative fabrics used in sustainable swimwear.
The Problem with Traditional Swimwear
The fashion industry is the second most polluting industry in the world, after the oil industry. In the UK alone, an estimated £140 million worth of clothing goes into landfill each year. This throwaway culture forces shops to constantly create new designs to meet demand, leading to unsustainable production practices. Many brands turn to third world countries with low labor costs, often disregarding workers’ rights.
However, there are steps consumers can take to support ethical and sustainable practices in the fashion industry. By choosing swimwear made from sustainable materials and technologies we can make a positive impact.
Natural Fibres for Sustainable Swimwear
When it comes to sustainable swimwear, there are two main categories: natural fibres and upcycled fibres. Let’s start by exploring the natural fibres that are commonly used in sustainable beach swimwear.
Hemp
Hemp is one of the most environmentally friendly fabrics on the market. It requires only ¼ of the water needed to grow cotton, yet produces 250% more fibre. Additionally, hemp is naturally resistant to pests, eliminating the need for harmful pesticides. Swimwear made from hemp does not release any chemical toxins and does not shed microplastics like its polyester alternative.
Hemp is also known for its durability and provides excellent UV protection, making it perfect for lazy days sunbathing. While hemp clothing may be slightly more expensive in some countries, the pricing is expected to decrease as industrial hemp cultivation becomes more widespread.
Upcycled Fibres for Sustainable Swimwear
The second category of sustainable swimwear fabrics is upcycled fibres. These fabrics go beyond recycling and can be repurposed multiple times, contributing to a more circular fashion industry.
ECONYL
ECONYL is a brand that transforms nylon waste, such as fishing nets and carpet fluff, into high-quality nylon yarn. The process involves rescuing nylon waste from landfills and oceans, regenerating it into new yarn, and remaking it into various products. This circular process helps reduce the global warming impact of nylon by up to 90% compared to virgin nylon produced from oil.
REPREVE
REPREVE is a fabric made from 100% recycled plastic, primarily post-consumer plastic bottles. To date, REPREVE has recycled more than 20 billion plastic bottles, reducing the need for petroleum, energy, and water in the production process. Despite being recycled, REPREVE fabric maintains the same quality and durability as virgin polyester.
Recycled Polyester
Traditional polyester production is known for its negative environmental impact, involving the use of large amounts of water, chemicals, and fossil fuels. However, recycled polyester offers a more sustainable alternative. It creates 75% less CO2 emissions than virgin polyester and reduces the fashion industry’s dependence on fossil fuels.
Conclusion
With so many sustainable swimwear options available, there is no need to choose between style and sustainability. By opting for swimwear made from natural or upcycled fibres, you can make a positive impact on the environment without compromising on style.
As consumers, our choices have a significant impact on the fashion industry. By supporting brands that prioritize sustainability, we can encourage the industry to change its practices for the better. So, the next time you’re shopping for swimwear, consider the 4 sustainable fabrics mentioned in this article and make a conscious choice for a more sustainable future.
