Fashion is the world’s second most polluting industry, Forbes reports. To help solve the major environmental crisis generated by this industry, luxury labels now are commiting to implementing sustainable clothing practices with the use of eco-friendly materials like bamboo. For example, Sartori’s #USETHEEXISTING project involves the brand opting for recycled materials like bamboo fibers and plastic bottles to minimize pre-existing material usage. Indeed, bamboo is helping “green” the fashion industry. Its organic, biodegradable, and antibacterial qualities, in particular, make bamboo a great choice for clothing.
Organic vs. non-organic
Since it doesn’t rely on harmful pesticides and fertilizers to grow, organic bamboo fabric is superior to its non-organic counterpart. Despite this, the majority of bamboo is sourced from China, a country with lax environmental standards. Fortunately, by choosing organic-certified bamboo clothing (like FSC-certified bamboo, for example), you can better ensure the bamboo was grown in an environmentally-conscious way with minimal chemical use and land abuse. It’s important to note an organic certification can only be awarded to “mechanically processed” bamboo (which is more expensive and labor-intensive). So, if you notice clothing made of bamboo rayon yet still sporting organic claims, it’s best to steer clear and invest your money elsewhere in legitimately organic bamboo.
Sustainable benefits
Bamboo is a revolutionary material for the fashion industry, particularly in terms of its light environmental footprint. Firstly, bamboo is one of the fastest growing plants in existence — it grows an average of twelve inches in one day. Secondly, bamboo can also flourish in areas of the world where other plants can’t successfully grow, making it a more accessible option for clothing. And, thirdly, bamboo also replants itself; new shoots always grow from old plants, meaning harvesting bamboo doesn’t kill the plant. Moreover, bamboo absorbs five times more carbon dioxide and emits 35% more oxygen than other types of trees. It’s also biodegradable, which is just one of the many reasons why eco conscious fashion companies prefer working with bamboo fabrics.
Antibacterial and antifungal
Bamboo clothing is also antibacterial and antifungal thanks to “bamboo kun”, the naturally-occuring antibacterial agent found within the plant. Bamboo, therefore, offers great antibacterial, antifungal, and overall hygiene benefits, which make it particularly effective for use in workout clothes. Bacteria is instantly killed and you stay looking and feeling fresh and odor-free. Just as the bamboo plant is able to keep itself cool in hot weather conditions, bamboo clothing continues to share this benefit, making it very breathable. Micro-gaps found in the mid-section of each bamboo fiber are responsible for aiding ventilation and moisture absorption. So, in hot weather, you’ll feel around two degrees cooler thanks to bamboo clothing. And, when it’s cold, bamboo clothing will help keep the warmth in.
Bamboo is here to help make the fashion industry more sustainable. Since it’s organic, easy to grow, biodegradable, and antibacterial, bamboo is the ideal material for any and all types of clothing.
