Wearing plastic

Fashion is a large and growing industry, with textile production reaching a record 124 million ton in 2023. Newly-made polyester, also called virgin polyester, made up nearly two-thirds of this total, far surpassing more environmentally friendly alternatives like cotton, according to a recent Textile Exchange report. Why is polyester so dominant? Its lightweight, durable, colorful, and cost-effective nature makes it a popular choice for manufacturers. Since 2016, polyester has overtaken cotton, wool, nylon, and other fibers combined, accounting for more than half of global fiber production. Often blended with materials like cotton, nylon, or wool, polyester not only sheds harmful microplastics during washing—impacting waterways, food systems, and human health—but is also difficult to recycle. The rising production of polyester is a critical area for engagement by investors. A goal of this engagement work is to stimulate companies to invest in scaling fiber recycling and reducing the use of virgin polyester.

Source: Textile Exchange, October 2024.