Here Are Eight Of The Most Sustainable Fabrics For Tote Bags

Now that the world is waking up to the destructive effects of plastic on our environment. We thought this would be a good time to highlight some of the more sustainable options to plastic. But first, what is a simple definition of sustainability?

Sustainability consists of fulfilling the needs of current generations without compromising the needs of future generations, while ensuring a balance between economic growth, environmental care, and social well-being.

Now let’s get into it.

Banana Fibre

One of the world’s strongest biodegradable fibres, it can be woven to make long lasting products like reusable bags. Banana fibres are made from the tree stems that would otherwise be wasted once the fruit cycle is up. More than a billion tons of tree stems are thrown away each year. Banana fibre is naturally water, fire, and tear resistant. Fabrics made from this fibre are soft, supple, and breathable. For more on this visit https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10098-021-02041-y

Pineapple Fibre (PALF)

At present, the pineapple leaves which mostly go to waste are being extracted and turned into fibres to make bags, ropes, clothing and more. PALF is considered to be superior in texture than any other vegetable fibre and is recyclable. It is known for its strength and versatility. It helps in climate restoration and soil quality by preventing soil erosion. For more information visit https://www.the-sustainable-fashion-collective.com/2019/06/04/what-is-pineapple-fibre-and-how-do-you-make-textiles-from-it

Jute

100% biodegradable and recyclable, it is a rain-fed crop with little need for fertilizers or pesticides. Jute is a very strong and versatile fabric that can be grown in 4-6 months. It is very inexpensive to produce and will last for years. For more information visit https://www.recycledmats.com.au/what-is-jute

Lyocell

Made from cellulose found in wood pulp which has been harvested from tree farms, cellulose is the natural polymer. The fibre is produced via an advanced 'closed loop' solvent spinning process, with minimal impact on the environment and economical use of energy and water. Lyocell uses wood pulp as being non-toxic and about 99% is recovered and recycled. Waste products in the air and water from the manufacturing process are minimal and considered harmless. Lyocell fibre is eco-friendly since products made from it can be recycled and lyocell is biodegradable because it is a cellulosic fibre. Read more about this here https://organicclothing.blogs.com/my_weblog/2005/11/tencel_sustaina.html

Juco

The fine blend of both jute and cotton gives juco an edge on both materials, by taking the most beneficial properties of each. Juco brings together the tighter weave cotton and the hard-wearing durability found in jute. The result is smooth to the touch and can take more detail from a printing perspective. Juco is very durable and has a longer life span. Click here for more info https://archive.wbc.co.uk/article/2013/03/why-asking-if-jute-bags-are-recyclable-is-the-wrong-question/

Organic Cotton

Grown using methods and materials that have a low impact on the environment. Organic production systems replenish and maintain soil fertility, reduce the use of toxic and persistent pesticides and fertilizers. Third-party certification organizations verify that organic producers use the methods and materials allowed in organic productions. All organic cotton grown in the US must meet strict federal regulations covering how the cotton is grown. Bags made from organic cotton are very strong, long lasting, machine washable, and recyclable. Want more info click here https://organiccottonplus.com/pages/learning-center

Recycled Polyester or (PET & RPET)

A raw material which is often found in plastic bottles. To turn these bottles into material, the plastic is sterilized and crushed. It is spun into a string of yarn which can be transformed into a fibre and then blended into a fabric. A 2017 research study found that manufacturing rPET generates 70% less carbon emissions than producing its virgin counterpart. Click here for more information https://compareethics.com/how-sustainable-is-recycled-polyester/

Recycled Cotton

Recycling converts waste into new materials. Textile recyclers break down the fabric and scraps into new materials to create new fibres. Cotton recycling minimizes the environmental impact by reducing the amount of textile waste ending up in landfills. Recycled cotton is also known as up-cycled cotton and made from post-consumer or post-industrial cotton waste. Products made from recycled cotton have a second life and can last a very long time.

I didn’t mention Bamboo because Bamboo itself is a wonderful crop that is a more sustainable option than other sources of plant-based textiles, but the most popular means of producing bamboo fibre is harmful to both workers and the environment which is why I didn’t mention it.

Contact us today for samples of these amazing fabrics!