Sustainability Assessment of Natural Fibers Used in the Textile Industry: A Literature Review
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65888/icraft.3.1.17Keywords:
Natural Fibers, Global Climate Change, Water Footprint, Carbon FootprintAbstract
The textile industry uses natural or synthetic fibers, or both, as raw materials. Global climate change affects the production potential of natural fibers by increasing pressure on air, soil, and water resources. Consequently, the production of these fibers, which the sector requires, faces significant sustainability challenges. This literature review comparatively examines the natural fibers commonly used in the textile sector cotton, jute, flax, and wool, based on environmental, economic, and social sustainability criteria. Each fiber's production process was evaluated, along with factors such as water consumption, chemical input requirements, carbon and water footprints, biodegradability, soil health impacts, and production conditions. The findings indicate that the sustainability performance of fibers varies significantly depending on fiber type, production method, and geographical conditions. This review aims to assess the impact of natural fibers on sustainable fashion and circular textile systems and to provide guidance for future research and industrial applications.
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