Recycled cotton, derived from pre-consumer, post-consumer, or post-industrial waste, is gaining attention amidst the textile waste crisis. While currently representing a small fraction of total cotton production, the demand for recycled cotton is projected to rise. Mechanically and chemically recycled cotton are the two primary methods employed in its production.
Mechanical recycling involves physical processing techniques, like shredding textiles into smaller pieces, without water or chemicals. This method offers environmental benefits, such as reduced energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. However, it requires mono-fiber or cotton-rich materials to prevent contamination.
Chemical recycling breaks down cotton textiles into chemical components, like cellulose, to produce semi-synthetic fibers. Although it allows for a wider range of raw materials, carefully considering the chemicals used is necessary to mitigate environmental impacts. Despite the transformation into semi-synthetic fibers, chemical recycling offers the potential to address resource constraints and achieve net-zero greenhouse gas emissions targets.
Understanding the suitability of different fiber types in textile production is crucial for designing sustainable clothing. Combining mechanically and chemically recycled cotton with other materials can offer solutions that meet quality, feel, and price requirements comparable to virgin cotton fabrics. This approach presents opportunities for scaling up circular and biodegradable textiles.
By leveraging advancements in recycling technology, recycled cotton can be utilized without compromising quality, paving the way for high-quality garments with reduced environmental footprints. Collaborative efforts in embracing circularity within the fashion industry can drive sustainability and innovation forward. Keep reading here:
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The textile industry has been left behind in terms of recycling, and it is time they caught up with the rest of the world through such initiatives. Wastage here is the order of the day. Are you aware of how much water is used to make a single shirt? 2,700 litres.