As a significant contributor to global economic growth, the fashion industry also carries a heavy environmental burden. From the extraction of resources and production methods to the disposal of textiles, the industry's influence can be harmful to the environment. Conventional textiles require vast amounts of water, shed microplastics, and often use harmful chemicals during their dyeing process — which contributes to the industry’s increasing rate of carbon emissions.
Compared to traditional cotton and synthetic fiber production, latex rubber manufacturers are shifting towards an eco-friendly method of production. Rubber threads are made by extracting the sap of rubber trees or using synthetic rubber made from petroleum-based monomers. Many manufacturers still prefer natural rubber over synthetic ones due to its high tensile strength and minimal odor. However, many are also shifting towards synthetic rubber due to its temperature resistance.
Since natural rubber is sourced from everyday rubber trees, they are easily biodegradable and renewable materials. Even so, companies need to pay attention to what counts as sustainable practice and what doesn’t. Join us as we delve into how rubber threads can be a sustainable alternative in the fashion industry and their potential in the future.
Shifting Extraction and Production Habits
Working towards a sustainable future takes work, especially when changing manufacturing habits in the corporate world. When sourcing materials from trees (i.e. wood and sap), it is important to pay attention to how one can continue its life after extraction.
According to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), rubber can be harvested without using harmful chemicals and clearing natural forests. If done correctly, rubber can be harvested sustainably and even increase biodiversity. Restoring rubber plantations to semi-natural forests is also a great way to reduce carbon dioxide emissions and carbon sequestration. By doing this, rubber companies can meet their production targets without sacrificing the environment.
Path Towards A Sustainable Future
Though rubber threads require less water compared to cotton cultivation, there is much to be desired from this industry. To delve deeper into sustainable practices in this industry, collaboration between stakeholders remains a key component.
Material scientists and fashion designers have the potential to develop innovative ways to integrate rubber threads without compromising aesthetics or functionality. Continued research is also necessary to improve the environmental footprint of rubber thread production and explore bio-based alternatives. Educating consumers will also play a great role in cultivating demand for eco-conscious clothing using sustainable materials.
Rubber threads are a promising step towards a more sustainable fashion industry. By addressing the existing challenges and fostering collaboration, this innovation can play a significant role in reducing the environmental impact of clothing and creating a greener future for fashion.
Be a part of a sustainable production environment and source your rubber threads from Omnimax by PT Cilatexindo Graha Alam (www.omnimax.id).
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