In the age of fast fashion, polyester has emerged as a ubiquitous fabric, adorning the racks of clothing stores worldwide. Its affordability, durability, and versatility have made it a favorite among consumers seeking trendy yet budget-friendly attire. However, beneath the sheen of convenience lies a hidden danger—one that poses a serious threat to human health. It's time to unravel the truth behind polyester and embrace a more sustainable and ethical approach to clothing and other products we use on a daily basis.
The Rise of Polyester and Microplastics
Polyester, a synthetic fiber derived from petroleum, has skyrocketed in popularity due to its low cost and easy maintenance. Of all the materials used worldwide for clothing, polyester is the most used. With a production volume of 57 million tons, polyester was the most used fiber, accounting for 52% of the global fiber market in 2020 and polyamide (nylon) had a market share of 5%. It is expected that by 2030, the annual global demand for fibers will be 135 million tons with over 75% being made of synthetic materials.
Polyester’s composition makes it a contributor to a much larger problem: the proliferation of microplastics. When polyester garments are worn or laundered, they shed minuscule plastic fibers known as microplastics, which find their way into the air and water supply, and eventually into our bodies.
Infiltrating Our Waterways
Microplastics pose a pervasive threat to our environment, infiltrating oceans, rivers, and lakes around the globe. These tiny particles, measuring less than 5 millimeters in size, are ingested by aquatic organisms, entering the food chain at its lowest levels. Studies have shown that microplastics have been found in a variety of marine species, including fish, shellfish, and even plankton, raising concerns about their potential impact on human health.
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The Human Toll
While the environmental consequences of microplastics are well-documented, their effects on human health are only beginning to be understood. Research suggests that microplastics can accumulate in the human body, posing a range of health risks. These include inflammation, oxidative stress, and disruption of endocrine function, which can lead to a variety of health problems, including infertility, obesity, and even cancer. Not to mention, the manufacturing process involves the use of hazardous chemicals, such as carcinogenic dyes and finishing agents, which can have adverse effects on the health of workers and nearby communities. Exposure to these chemicals has been linked to various health issues, including respiratory problems, skin irritations, and reproductive disorders.
Respiratory Health Concerns
Exposure and possible intake of micro and nanoplastics through inhalation of air is considerably higher than through ingestion. Indoor air pollution, exacerbated by the presence of microplastics shed from clothing, can lead to respiratory issues such as asthma, allergies, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). The synthetic fibers can also penetrate in the lung tissue and cause chronic inflammation, which is known to be a leading cause of diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes. Inhaled microplastics can potentially reach the liver, heart, kidneys, brain, and even the placenta and fetus.
While the allure of polyester may be hard to resist, it's crucial to recognize its hidden costs and explore sustainable alternatives. Natural fibers, such as organic cotton, hemp, and linen, offer eco-friendly alternatives to polyester, boasting biodegradability, lower environmental impact, and greater breathability. Additionally, investing in high-quality, timeless pieces and practicing mindful consumption can help reduce the demand for disposable fashion and promote a more sustainable approach to clothing. Additionally, using microfiber-catching laundry bags and investing in washing machines equipped with filtration systems can help reduce the release of microplastics into the water supply.
Polyester clothing and microplastics represent a silent yet significant threat to human health, with far-reaching implications for both current and future generations. This isn’t to cause anxiety or fear, but awareness. There are factors we can’t control, so we just need to focus on controlling the things we can. It’s easy to become discouraged from doing anything at all because we’ve come to learn that microplastics are in pretty much everything we consume, so why bother, right? We need to ditch the all or nothing approach because if we can eliminate even half of the exposure to microplastics, that will make a significant difference in the amount we’re consuming and the effects on our bodies. If we start saying no as consumers, eventually companies will have to find a better alternative to plastic. It starts with both – us as consumers, and companies offering the products. It starts with awareness and the decision to make changes where we can.