Wearing clothes made from wood pulp might seem like a sustainable choice, but the reality is more complicated. Viscose, Lycocell, acetate, and modal are popular fabrics made from tree pulp, but the production process often leads to deforestation. Every year, about 300 million trees are cut down globally to make viscose, which is the third most used fabric in fashion. This demand is expected to double in the next eight years, leading to further destruction of ancient and endangered forests in countries like Brazil, Canada, and Indonesia.
Many fashion brands are looking for alternatives to polyester and virgin cotton, but viscose production poses its own environmental challenges. Some of the world’s biggest viscose producers are considered high risk for contributing to deforestation. Despite efforts by organizations like CanopyStyle to hold these producers accountable, it can be difficult to trace the origin of the fibers used in clothing sold by various brands. This lack of transparency and traceability makes it challenging for consumers to make informed choices about the clothes they buy.
While some brands have committed to zero deforestation, the fashion industry as a whole still has a long way to go in ensuring sustainable sourcing practices. The EU’s new Deforestation Regulation aims to prevent the sale of products that contribute to forest degradation, but compliance remains a challenge for many companies. Activists and NGOs are calling for stronger regulations and greater accountability to protect forests and the communities that rely on them.
To ensure that your clothing choices are more sustainable, look for alternatives to traditional viscose. Circulose, Ecovero, and FSC-certified viscose are all options that have lower environmental impacts. By supporting brands that prioritize responsible sourcing and production practices, consumers can play a role in promoting sustainability in the fashion industry.
Overall, the shift towards more sustainable practices in fashion is encouraging, but there is still much work to be done. By educating themselves about the environmental impact of their clothing choices and supporting brands that prioritize sustainability, consumers can help drive positive change in the industry. Remember to look for certifications and information about sourcing practices when shopping for clothes to make more eco-friendly choices.