The article lists 5 sustainable alternatives to manufacture lingerie.

Eco consumerism is a hot topic within the media and fashion industry as we all try to live more sustainable lives. But finding brands that are eco-friendly can be difficult, particularly when we are living in a society fuelled by fast fashion. Now we all know about the climate crisis, but do you know that the fashion industry is one of the most polluting and damaging to the environment?

From sourcing the materials, producing the materials, and manufacturing the clothing items to textile waste, each process is highly damaging to the environment, most of which are made from synthetic fibres taking hundreds of years to decompose. Think of the lingerie--most of us think of it as a necessity, as it helps women to feel empowered and comfortable within their own skin. So, to make this sustainable and to be able to connect more with the environment it’s a win win right?

There is a vast amount of research going into the production of sustainable materials, we are going to name a few within the lingerie industry. Here are five eco alternatives to use in lingerie manufacturing:

1.Lyocell

Considered a semi-synthetic fabric, lyocell uses the process of cellulosic fibre created from wood pulp. Examples might include pulp from oak or birch trees. Lyocell is a breathable fabric, making it perfect for lingerie manufacturing. Because it is made from plant-based materials, lyocell is biodegrade at the end of its cycle if it hasn’t been mixed with other synthetic fibres. However, some of the chemicals used to break down the fibres have caused some controversy as they can be harmful to the environment.

2.Tencel

Tencel also uses cellulose fibres and is known as a type of rayon. This fabric is made from bamboo pulp and is therefore faster to regenerate as bamboo grows faster than trees. Bamboo also requires much less water to grow than other trees and is therefore more sustainable. In terms of the look and feel, Tencel recreates a silkier and softer material, perfect for premium lingerie brands for bed sheets and other luxurious clothing.

3. Recycled Yarn (powermesh & lace)

There is a growing variety of recycled yarn powermesh and lace on the market, but two of the most well-known are Penn Italia's recycled yarn powermesh and Iluna's eco lace, both made from Roica fibres. These stretch fibres are a combination or recycled polyamide from consumer waste and elastane and can be woven into a wide variety of different materials with varying degrees of elasticity.

4. Organic cotton

This is a better alternative to regular cotton as it considers the state of the environment using more ethical techniques to produce the crop. For example, pesticides and artificial fertilisers are banned to protect the fields and the biodiversity to survive. Switching to organic cotton helps to save water and create healthier farmland, as regular cotton uses a vast amount of water to produce, and also pollutes drinking water to surrounding areas. Organic cotton takes on a more natural form of growth and production, helping to boost the surrounding environment, people, and biodiversity.

5. Econyl

This is produced from synthetic waste, which would otherwise be polluting the planet and our oceans. This waste could be industrial plastic, nylon waste and even waste fishing nets which can be recycled and regenerated to make a recycled nylon fabric.

This is a great way to clean up and recycle our plastic waste. However, these fabrics do still contain microplastics. The good news? There are ways to prevent these from seeping back into our oceans - from using a wash bag or filter, it is still a great eco alternative.

When you start sampling materials for your new collection, why not consider a more innovative way of producing garments?

There are plenty of suppliers offering eco alternatives, but knowing the source and benefits is vital to make a positive impact.

About the author: Clare Martin is the Founder of Confident Tiger, a bespoke, eco-friendly UK-based lingerie line.