Popular Natural Fibers

NEW DELHI (IANS) – Buyers in developing nations such as India are becoming more aware of the benefits of sustainability and the complete life cycle of products and resources, right from the source to the final output.

Cotton and silk have been the best natural fibers. Cotton holds the lion’s share of the market as far as textile applications are concerned. The fiber grows around the seeds of the cotton plant and cotton has been used since about 3000 BC. Cotton is soft, substantial, flame retardant, hypo-allergenic, and easy to wash. It is the most popular natural fabric used in making clothing. Silk is also extremely popular and is in high demand globally. With significant government and international subsidies for silk projects and marketing plans, the industry has snowballed in recent years. Silk exports are also increasing rapidly.

Hemp is an excellent example of how textiles can be made with minimal environmental impact. It has been used for centuries, making it an ideal plant fiber that can benefit society while reducing our carbon footprint. It is an extremely robust fabric that lasts longer than cotton and does not lose shape easily. Hemp fabrics are hypoallergenic and non-irritating to the skin. Hemp has the appearance and feel of traditional linen. Hemp materials can soften with time and washing. It is also used to make tapestries, hats, shawls, and towels.

Banana stems and peels, like hemp, provide fibers that can be used to make textiles. This has been done for generations, but the world of Western fashion has only recently recognized the textile potential of the common banana. Because of its natural appeal and texture, it is more suitable for home furnishings like blankets, rugs, mats, etc. It is light in weight and has strong absorbance quality thus a good

Bamboo is an environmentally friendly natural cellulose regenerated biodegradable textile material. The fiber generated from bamboo is of the highest quality. The yarn produced from bamboo usually has a silky texture and the fabric made from this is called bamboo linen. Bamboo fiber has already acquired appeal in the textile sector due to its aesthetic qualities, fineness, flexibility, inherent antibacterial properties, and UV resistance.

Modal is a lighter, breathable, and more durable version of the traditional rayons. It is made using wood chip cellulose from Beech trees only. Modal has emerged as a wear-resistant, fade-resistant, and breathable soft fiber. Therefore, today, modal is used in various applications like clothing, furnishings, bedding, etc. It is mainly used as an alternative to cotton or silk. Modal is great for sportswear, base layers, and t-shirts as the fabric’s weave is very breathable.

EcoVero is created from certified and sustainably managed wood pulp, giving it a significantly more environmentally friendly option than other fabrics on the market. EcoVero is not only better for the environment, but it is also soft and gentle on the skin, making it an excellent solution for those with sensitive skin. Ecovero emits half the amount of CO2 and consumes half the amount of energy and water, and its pulp bleaching is completely chlorine-free.

Climate experts and industry professionals are pushing the case for a fashion industry shift towards developing more sustainable and resilient materials that can withstand extreme weather patterns.