As a significant contributor to global economic growth, the fashion industry also carried a heavy environmental burden. According to the European Parliament, the fashion industry is responsible for ten percent of global carbon emissions. From resource extraction and production processes to textile waste, the industry’s impact can be detrimental to the environment. Conventional textiles require vast amounts of water, shed microplastics, and often use harmful chemicals during its dyeing process — which contributes to the industry’s increasing rate of carbon emissions.
Compared to the traditional cotton and synthetic fiber production, the latex rubber manufacturers are shifting towards an eco-friendly method of production. Rubber threads are made by extracting the sap of rubber trees or through a synthetic process using petroleum-based monomers. Many manufacturers still prefer natural rubber over synthetic ones due to its high tensile strength, minimal odor, and greater tear resistance.
Since natural rubber is sourced from the 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 its potential in the future.
Shifting Extraction and Production Habits
Working towards a sustainable future is not easy, especially when it comes to changing manufacturing habits in the corporate world. When it comes to sourcing materials that come from trees (i.e. wood and sap), it is important to pay attention to how one can continue its life after extraction is done.
According to the World Wide Fund for Nature (WWF), rubber can be harvested without using harmful chemicals and without 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 will be able to meet their production targets without having to sacrifice the environment.
Path Towards A Sustainable Future
Even though rubber threads require less water compared to cotton cultivation, there is still much left to be desired from this industry. In order to delve deeper into sustainable practices in this industry, collaboration between stakeholders remains as a key component.
Material scientists and fashion designers have the potential to develop innovative ways to integrate rubber threads without compromising aesthetics nor functionality. Continued research is also necessary to improve the environmental footprint of rubber thread production and explore bio-based alternatives. Additionally, 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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