The theme ‘Planet vs Plastics’ for Earth Day 2024 reflects a crucial focus on the global issue of plastic pollution and its impact on the environment. Plastics, particularly single-use plastics, pose a significant threat to ecosystems, marine life, and human health. One of the ways in which we can reduce plastic entering the environment is to choose natural clothing fibres. Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, shed microplastics when washed or worn. These microplastics make their way into waterways and oceans, exacerbating plastic pollution. Wool is free from synthetics and biodegradable, meaning it can naturally decompose over time without leaving harmful residues in the environment. In contrast, synthetic fibres like polyester can persist in the environment for hundreds of years.
Choosing to wear wool means choosing a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative to synthetic fabrics. By making conscious choices about the materials we wear, we can contribute to efforts aimed at reducing plastic pollution and preserving the health of our planet for future generations.
Head to Woolmark to read more on how to put your wardrobe on a ‘plastic diet’.
Choose wool to reduce your plastic footprint