Synthetic Dye Toxicity

The textile industry is one of the most water polluting and consuming activities there is. Powerful statement to start a blog with I know – but did it get your attention? 

After World War 1 Germany led the way in synthetic dyes, they were inexpensive enough to mass produce colourful, patterned fabrics for homes and to use as clothing. Natural dyes that had been used for centuries had quickly been forgotten only to be used by countries who were unable to gain access to this new phenomenon. Little thought was given to the impact this process would have on the world, and it went full steam ahead to what we still know now, this throw away society from the latest clothing trends to seasonal house décor.  

During the colouration process, a significant percentage of the dye does not bind to the fabric and is lost to the wastewater stream. 10-15% dyes are released into the environment during dyeing process making the waste highly coloured and aesthetically unpleasant. Public perception of water quality is influenced by the colour. So, the removal of colour from wastewater is often viewed as more important than the removal of the soluble colourless toxic substances. That is a horrific thought, but one that rings true to so many of us. I know I far prefer to jump in the sea if its crystal clear, with golden sands that I can physically see than jumping into the merky sea water we find in the UK!  

Organic manufactures are investigating ways to treat their clothes with dyes made from organic materials and bacteria, rather than chemical treatments. These tre atments are both safer for the environment, for the workers and for our own skin. Natural dyes are made from plant and animal sources, such as indigo, cutch, weld, madder and cochineal, but also require exorbitant amounts of water usage. The natural dyes can create similar colours to those made synthetically, but the benefits to health and the environment allow them to be a far better choice as they have a carbon neutral footprint.  

In relation to our own sustainability and eco-friendly mission, here at The Loft we wanted to understand this impact.  

By purchasing remnant bundles rather than seeing them sent to landfill, you are helping reduce the chemical footprint the textile industry is known for. The fabric is already printed, it is ready for you to use in your home, rather than commissioning a new digitally printed roll and adding to that toxicity issue.  

We are adding to our remnant bundles all the time, so do check out the collection.