Understanding Sustainable Fabric Options Available in India
Understanding Sustainable Fabric Options Available in India
Did you know that the fashion industry is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions?
Producing just one cotton T-shirt requires 2700 liters of water, which is enough for one person to drink for 900 days. Imagine the increasing need for clothing considering the global population is expected to reach 8 billion by 2030, leading to a 63% increase in demand for fashion and apparel. To say that these statistics are alarming, would be an understatement, but they highlight the need for an even greater focus on sustainable fabrics and processes in fashion.
Examining Sustainable Manufacturing: Advantages of Sourcing from India
The global climate crisis has advanced the agenda for global leaders and fashion industry players to focus more on promoting sustainable fashion practices. India, with its rich history of textiles and fabrics, has been home to several sustainable fabric options that are regaining popularity among fashion-conscious consumers.
The world is now, slowly yet steadily including India in their global sourcing strategy. India has become a go to destination for not just sourcing sustainable raw materials but also manufacturing finished goods. The government is also focusing on increasing manufacturing in India and strengthening the supply chain in India.
Let us explore the various sustainable fabric options available in India
Organic Cotton
Cotton is one of the most widely used fabrics in the world, but conventional cotton farming is known to be resource-intensive and harmful to the environment. On the other hand, organic cotton is grown without pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, making it a more sustainable option. India is one of the world’s largest producers of organic cotton. The availability of organic cotton is the biggest advantage of sourcing from India.
Khadi
Khadi is a handspun and handwoven fabric that has been traditionally manufactured in India for centuries. Its spinning does not require machinery or energy, thus having a low carbon footprint.
Moreover, it uses 3 liters of water compared to 55 liters for mill-woven fabric. Khadi fabric in India is made from natural fibers like cotton, silk, or wool and has a unique texture that adds character to any garment besides being sustainable.
Linen
Linen is a natural fabric made from the fibers of the flax plant. It is known for its durability, breathability, and sustainability. The flax plant is naturally moth-resistant and does not require any pesticide or insecticide. Linen requires less water and energy to produce compared to other fabrics, making it an eco-friendly option.
Tencel
Tencel, also known as lyocell, is a sustainable fabric made from wood pulp that is produced in a closed-loop process, which means that almost all the solvents and water used in the production process are recycled. Its highly absorbent, moisture resistant, and anti-bacterial properties make it a sustainable fabric.
Hemp
Hemp is a fast-growing and low-maintenance crop that requires less water and pesticides than conventional cotton. Hemp fibers are strong and durable, making them an excellent option for sustainable fashion. In India, hemp is used to make various garments, including jackets, shirts, and trousers, making it easy to source it in India.
Jute
Jute is a natural fiber commonly used to make eco-friendly bags and packaging. However, it can also be used to make sustainable clothing. It is 100% biodegradable and recyclable. Moreover, it consumes 15 tonnes of carbon dioxide and releases 11 tonnes of oxygen. Which helps make the soil fertile.
There are several sustainable fabric options available in India that are eco-friendly, durable, and stylish
Sourcing Sustainable Fabrics from India
By virtue of its geographical and cultural expanse sourcing from India can range between “it’s a cake walk” to “moving a mountain”. When exploring sourcing from India its best to have a reliable partner who has deep rooted understanding of the Indian market. Moglix, has been working with 15000+ reliable and compliant Indian suppliers across multiple industries in the manufacturing and procurement landscape for almost a decade. Zoglix which is part of the Moglix group is dedicated towards developing an ecosystem of frictionless sourcing from India for procurement leaders in the USA. Know more.
The Next Big Thing in Textile Sourcing: India’s Sustainable Fashion Scene
The Next Big Thing in Textile Sourcing: India’s Sustainable Fashion Scene
The fashion industry has the potential to significantly impact the environment due to the widespread adoption of environmentally destructive production processes. In 2018, it was responsible for at least 4% of global greenhouse gas emissions. This figure was more than the combined carbon output of the economies of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom.
As a result, sustainability and ethical sourcing have become a top priority for apparel companies. This shift is also driven by growing consumer and government awareness about environmental and social issues.
Sustainable sourcing is playing a vital role in shaping the future of the textile industry and protecting the planet and its inhabitants. Ensuring that products are sourced, manufactured and recycled in an environmentally-friendly manner minimizes the negative impact on the planet.
Exploring India’s Rich Heritage: India Sourcing Advantages
India has a rich history in textiles, dating back centuries. The country is known for its traditional and artisanal methods of weaving and dyeing fabrics, making it a hub for textile enthusiasts. Textile manufacturing in India has also increased manifolds due to favorable impetus provided by focused government policies.
Today, India is a leading producer of various organic textiles, including cotton, linen, silk, and jute. Sustainable and ethically-produced materials from India are becoming increasingly popular, and brands are starting to source from small-scale producers that use environmentally friendly and ethical methods to create their textiles. Some famous sustainable textiles produced in India include organic cotton, hemp, and handloom textiles made using natural dyes.
From Farm to Fashion: The Vital Role of Transparency in Sustainable Textile Sourcing
Transparency and traceability of the supply chain ensure that the manufacturing process follows sustainable and socially responsible practices. Transparency also helps identify potential risks, such as environmental or human rights violations, and address them proactively. Additionally, it can help to build consumer trust and loyalty as more and more people are becoming aware of the importance of sustainable and ethical sourcing practices. Finally, by embracing transparency, textile companies can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices to their stakeholders.
Navigating Responsible Sourcing in India’s Textile Industry
Sourcing from India can be a great way to access high-quality textiles while supporting ethical and responsible business practices. Some tips include:
- Look for certifications such as the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) to ensure that your sourcing materials meet ethical and sustainability standards. Other sustainability certifications for fabrics in India include the Fairtrade certification, which focuses on social and economic development for farmers and workers, and the Better Cotton Initiative, which promotes sustainable cotton farming practices.
- Regularly visit suppliers to ensure they comply with your ethical and sustainability requirements. Build long-term relationships with suppliers and reliable sourcing partners in India that prioritize social and environmental responsibility.
Prioritizing Sustainability in Textile Sourcing: The Way Forward
As consumers become more conscious of sustainability, brand love and loyalty will depend on a brand’s sustainability attributes. India can be an excellent choice for companies seeking to achieve their sustainability goals through responsible sourcing. Moreover, there has been a recent trend of companies that previously relied on sourcing from China shifting their focus to India due to the country’s strong advancements in the supply chain.
The Zoglix AEM rule of supplier engagement ensures a strong and transparent supplier ecosystem that enables ethical and sustainable sourcing. Contact us to learn more about our sustainable solutions for cultivating, a sustainable and profitable India sourcing strategy.