Environmental Analysis of Textile Products

Abstract

The increasing public awareness and sense of social responsibility related to environmental issues have led the textile industry to manufacture products with improved environmental profiles. This article evaluates processes used to produce cotton, wool, nylon, polyester, rayon, lyocell (Tencel®), and leather, and their potential environmental impacts using selected criteria. An analysis of the measures the textile industry has taken to reduce the adverse environmental impacts is provided. Finally, the textile industry's and consumers' responsibilities in moving toward the production of environmentally sound textile products are discussed. The assessment of the environmental impact of a product is a complex issue, and solutions cannot be achieved without action by the government, industry, and the consumers.