Are the clothes you’re wearing killing you?

Did you know that 60% of our clothes are made of plastic? Fabrics made of plastic, such as acrylic, polyester, and nylon, are ubiquitous in our wardrobes, but they come with significant health and environmental costs. These synthetic fabrics, derived from petrochemicals, contribute to pollution in our oceans, air, and even our bodies. Understanding their impact and exploring alternatives is crucial for sustainable living.

The Ocean's Plastic Problem
When we wash clothes made from synthetic fabrics, tiny plastic fibers called microfibers are released into the water. Believe it or not, a single load of laundry can release up to 700,000 microfibers. These microfibers are too small to be filtered out by wastewater treatment plants, so they end up in rivers, lakes, and oceans. Once in the ocean, these microfibers contribute to the staggering amount of plastic pollution already present. According to a study by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), microplastics make up as much as 35% of the plastic pollution in the ocean.

Marine animals, from the smallest plankton to the largest whales, ingest these microfibers, mistaking them for food. The microplastics can accumulate in their bodies, leading to physical harm, reproductive issues, and even death. Eventually, these plastics make their way up the food chain, reaching humans who consume seafood.

Air and Health Impacts
The environmental damage caused by synthetic fabrics extends beyond the water. The production and degradation of plastic fabrics release harmful chemicals into the air, including volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and greenhouse gases. Polyester production alone contributes to an estimated 706 million tons of greenhouse gas emissions each year.

But that’s not  all, microfibers can become airborne, contributing to air pollution. These airborne particles can be inhaled, leading to respiratory problems in humans and animals. A study by the World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that microplastics have been found in 83% of tap water samples worldwide, meaning that these particles are also being ingested by people.

Microplastics in the Human Body
Once ingested, microplastics can accumulate in human organs. Research has found microplastics in human blood, lungs, and even in the placenta. While the full impact on human health is still being studied, there is concern that these tiny plastic particles could cause inflammation, disrupt hormones, and increase the risk of diseases such as cancer.

So what’s the alternative to plastic clothes?
To mitigate the negative impact of synthetic fabrics on human health and the environment, switching to natural and sustainable alternatives is essential. Fabrics like organic cotton, linen, hemp, and bamboo are biodegradable and have a lower environmental footprint. These materials do not shed microplastics when washed, and their production processes are generally more eco-friendly, requiring less water and fewer chemicals.

Organic cotton, for example, uses 91% less water than conventional cotton and is grown without harmful pesticides. Hemp is another excellent alternative, known for its durability and minimal environmental impact. It requires little water, grows quickly, and even improves soil health.

While we all enjoy the convenience and affordability of synthetic fabrics, the costs to our health and environment  are far-reaching, outweighing any savings to our wardrobes. By looking closely at labels and choosing sustainable fabrics while shopping for our latest fashions, we can promote a much healthier planet for future generations.