Guide e consigli

The Importance of Natural Fabrics in Sustainable Fashion

L'importanza dei Tessuti Naturali nella Moda Sostenibile, Malìa Lab l'atelier di abbigliamento sartoriale responsabile

 

🌍 Did you know that fashion is one of the most polluting industries in the world? It contributes to 10% of global CO₂ emissions and consumes over 93 billion cubic meters of water every year. According to the United Nations, the textile industry is responsible for about 20% of global water waste and 35% of the total release of microplastics into the oceans.

"And as if that weren't enough, washing synthetic garments is like sending microplastics snorkeling in the oceans. And nobody wants an ocean that looks like a Barbie pool, right?"

But there is a solution: choose natural and sustainable fabrics, trusted friends of your skin and the planet. "Sustainability in the textile industry is crucial to reducing environmental impact." - Andrea Fumero, Up2You

Why Choose Natural Fabrics?

🌿 For the Environment

Natural fabrics are biodegradable and renewable. They don't leave skeletons in the closet... nor in nature! They are not only elegant but also sustainable.

  • Reduction of Carbon Footprint: The production of synthetic fibers such as polyester emits up to three times more CO₂ compared to natural fibers.

  • Reduction of Water Pollution: The production processes of synthetic fabrics require harmful chemicals that can contaminate water resources.

💆 For Comfort

Soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic. I promise, no itching. "As consumers, we have the power to change the world simply by being mindful of what we buy." - Vivienne Westwood

  • Thermal Regulation: Natural fabrics help maintain body temperature, keeping you cool in summer and warm in winter.

  • Moisture Absorption: Cotton can absorb up to 27% of its weight in water, keeping the skin dry and comfortable.

💪 For the duration

"They last longer than passing trends. Because, let's face it, no one wants to see embarrassing photos of themselves in neon pants in 10 years. A win for the wardrobe and the planet."

  • Longevity: Fabrics such as linen and hemp are known for their strength and durability, allowing garments to last over time.

♻️ For the Impact

According to the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, extending the life of a garment by 9 months reduces its environmental impact by 20-30%. Choosing sustainable fabrics is a small change with a big positive impact. Think of it as your personal clothing superhero, saving the world one garment at a time.

The Protagonists of Sustainability

🌾 Cotton

  • Water Savings: Uses up to 91% less water compared to conventional cotton.

  • Emission Reduction: Emits 46% less greenhouse gases.

  • Pesticide-Free: Protects ecosystems and the health of farmers by eliminating the use of harmful chemicals.

Sources: Textile Exchange - "Organic Cotton Market Report"; WWF - "The Impact of a Cotton T-Shirt"

🌿 Linen

  • Low Water Consumption: Requires up to 60% less water compared to cotton.

  • Sustainable Growth: Grows well in poor soils without the need for chemical fertilizers.

  • Zero Waste: Every part of the plant is used, reducing waste.

Sources: European Confederation of Flax and Hemp (CELC); Masters of Linen

🌱 Hemp

  • CO₂ Absorption: Absorbs more CO₂ per hectare than any other crop.

  • Fast Growth: Can grow up to 4 meters in 100 days.

  • No Pesticide Needed: Naturally resistant to pests.

Sources: European Industrial Hemp Association; FAO - Food and Agriculture Organization

🍃 Tencel (Lyocell)

  • Closed Loop Production: Recovers and reuses 99% of solvents in the production process.

  • Renewable Resources: Derived from fast-growing eucalyptus trees cultivated in sustainable forests.

  • Biodegradable: It decomposes naturally without harming the environment.

Sources: Lenzing Group; Environmental Impact Studies on Tencel

🌊 Seacell

  • Innovative Origin: Seacell is a regenerated fabric that combines marine algae with cellulose fiber, transforming abundant and eco-friendly resources into a trendy and sustainable material.

  • Benefits for the Skin: Seaweed provides micronutrients and antibacterial properties, making the fabric hypoallergenic and beneficial for skin health.

  • Comfort and Breathability: Lightweight and highly breathable, Seacell offers comfort similar to that of natural fibers, ideal for sports and casual wear.

  • Biodegradable: Completely biodegradable, it integrates into a low environmental impact life cycle, contributing to responsible resource consumption.

Sources: Lenzing SeaCell; International Textile Manufacturers Federation.

🎍 Bamboo

  • Lightning Growth: Can grow up to 1 meter a day.

  • Natural Regeneration: Grows back after cutting without the need for replanting.

  • CO₂ Absorption: Absorbs more CO₂ and releases more oxygen compared to other plants.

Note: Ensure that bamboo processing is sustainable, as some processes can be chemically intensive.

♻️ Cupro

  • Upcycling: Made from the waste of cotton production.

  • Biodegradable: It decomposes without releasing harmful substances.

  • Softness and Shine: Similar to silk, but cruelty-free.

🐑 Wool

  • Thermoregulating: Keeps warm in winter and cool in summer.

  • Naturally Fireproof: Does not require chemical treatments.

  • Renewable Source: Sheep are sheared annually.

Sources: International Wool Textile Organisation (IWTO)

🦋 Silk

  • Biodegradable: It decomposes without leaving toxic residues.

  • Support for Communities: Production can support rural economies.

  • Timeless Elegance: A sustainable luxury.

Sources: International Sericultural Commission

Our Commitment to the Planet

We only use certified fabrics and make each piece to order, reducing waste related to overproduction. No waste, just tailored beauty and awareness.

  • Reliable Certifications: Our fabrics meet recognized standards such as GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) and OEKO-TEX.

  • European Regulations: We comply with the REACH regulation, which governs the use of hazardous chemicals, protecting consumers and the environment.

Conscious Consumers

As consumers, we have the power to change the world by being mindful of what we buy.

  • Choose Sustainable Products: Opt for items made with natural fabrics and ethical processes.

  • Inform: Learn more about the practices of the brands you support.

  • Reduce, Reuse, Recycle: Adopt habits that reduce environmental impact.


Natural Regeneration

Natural fibers, unlike synthetic fabrics, have an innate ability to regenerate outdoors. Thanks to their porous and breathable structure, when laid out in the sun and ventilated, they promote the oxidation of odor-causing compounds and the dispersion of moisture, reducing bacterial load. Studies have shown that, after 4-6 hours of exposure to air, garments made from natural fibers can experience a reduction in odor-causing bacteria by up to 30–40%¹. This means that, even without frequently washing the garments, it is possible to keep them fresh and reduce the need for intensive washing, unlike synthetic fabrics that tend to retain sweat and residues. In practice, airing your cotton, linen, or hemp garments not only "renews" them naturally but also contributes to a more sustainable wardrobe management 🌞💨.


Conclusion

Sustainable fashion is not just a trend, but a necessity. By choosing natural fabrics and supporting eco-friendly brands, we can protect our planet for future generations.

Discover our garments made from natural fabrics: [Our Products]

🌿 Do you want to be part of the change? Explore our collection and wear the future in style! 💚


General Sources:

  • 1-Textile Research Journal, 2022.
  • United Nations - "Sustainable Development Goals"

  • Ellen MacArthur Foundation - "A New Textiles Economy"

  • WWF - Reports on the environmental impact of the textile industry

  • Textile Exchange - "Preferred Fiber & Materials Market Report"


 

Find out more

Articolo su Elle Italia Malìa Lab atelier di abbigliamento sostenibile
Abito MARTA in cotone canapa lino lana tessuto biologico abbigliamento sostenibile sartoriale Malìa Lab

Comment

Please note that comments must be approved before posting.

This site is protected by hCaptcha and the hCaptcha Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.