London: The latest Ecotextile Talks podcast discusses cotton’s impact on climate change with contributions from experts. Topics include biogenic carbon storage, apparel reuse, and a 2024 study aiming to reshape environmental perspectives on cotton in the sustainable fashion sector.
In recent discussions featured in the latest episode of the Ecotextile Talks podcast, hosted by Philip Berman, the exploration of cotton’s pivotal role in addressing climate change has taken centre stage. The episode sees contributions from experts including Dr Richard Venditti from North Carolina State University’s department of forest biomaterials, Steve Pires, the associate director of sustainability at Cotton Incorporated, and Emily Graham, sustainability project manager at apparel brand Carhartt.
The podcast delves into groundbreaking topics such as biogenic carbon storage within cotton garments as well as advancements in apparel reuse and recycling. This dialogue also examines a recent study that challenges traditional perspectives on the environmental footprint of cotton. This latest initiative aims to reshape the understanding of cotton’s environmental benefits, especially in a fashion industry increasingly focused on sustainability.
Highlighting the innovative study set for 2024, Dr Venditti elucidates the principles behind biogenic carbon storage, stating, “This is when plant materials – anything that grows with photosynthesis – takes carbon dioxide out of the atmosphere and puts it in the plant.” He notes that, by transforming these plants into products, the carbon dioxide remains sequestered, thereby serving as a viable method of carbon storage.
Pires expands upon the study’s objectives and methodologies, describing how they employed two distinct analytical approaches to evaluate the environmental impact of cotton throughout its life cycle. He explained, “We had been thinking about this at Cotton Incorporated for a while before we made it a fully fledged project,” indicating a thoughtful and proactive approach within their organisation. “While a cotton garment may not store CO2 for as long as say a tree, or timber in building materials, it still does have an impact and therefore have a cooling effect on the plant,” he added.
The dialogue around the life cycles of cotton products revealed that they have value beyond their immediate use. “Now, if you think about your closet and how much cotton you have in there, that’s essentially stored carbon,” Pires notes, suggesting that each cotton item can be likened to a “miniature forest” stored within wardrobes, trapping carbon that would otherwise contribute to atmospheric pollution.
Complementing this exploration, Emily Graham sheds light on Carhartt’s engagement with various sustainability initiatives. These include the brand’s repair and resale operations, the increasing incorporation of regenerative cotton, and participation in the Go Green denim recycling programme. Such efforts are indicative of a broader shift in the fashion industry towards upcycling, zero-waste initiatives, and the promotion of sustainable practices.
In conclusion, the podcast extends a valuable insight into the significant strides being made in the cotton sector, reinforcing the growing emphasis on sustainable fashion and the potential for garments to play a role in mitigating climate change. The conversations underscore the movement towards second-hand clothing and slow fashion, highlighting individual potential to make conscientious style choices while maintaining aesthetic appeal. The exchange of ideas promises to inspire further innovation and commitment to sustainability within the clothing industry.
Source: Noah Wire Services
