The Ultimate Sustainable Fibre
Unlike many carbon-based textiles, wool is produced from renewable atmospheric carbon. When discarded, wool naturally enriches the soil, gradually releasing essential nutrients and carbon, much like a fertiliser. Wool stands out as an environmentally friendly fibre, valued for being 100% natural, renewable, biodegradable, and recyclable. It's thermo-regulating, easy to care for, and durable enough to last for years, with the added benefit of easy repairs.
Scale of Wool Production
Global wool production exceeds one million metric tons annually, raising concerns about sustainable disposal. Wool recycling has become an essential solution to repurpose this abundant resource, minimising its environmental impact. As the textile and fashion industry influences key UN Sustainable Development Goals—such as responsible consumption, protecting land, and preserving marine life—wool recycling is crucial in achieving these objectives. By prioritising recycling, the industry moves towards a more sustainable and responsible future.
Is recycling of wool really a thing?
Recycled wool has gained prominence, with nearly 70,000 metric tons repurposed each year as of 2019. Major hubs for recycled wool production include Italy, India, and China. Wool recycling began in 1813, pioneered by Mr. Benjamin Law in Batley, UK, and later scaled in Prato, Italy, and Panipat, India. Today, recycled wool finds versatile applications across non-woven materials, composites, and clothing.
The sustainable and environmental footprint in the production of recycled wool is reviewed. The leading brands have tried to be more responsible and Eco- friendly by using recycled woolen products. Brands such as Ralph Lauren and Target have committed to using recycled wool for their production. A study on these brands and their scope in producing garments based on recycled wool is also done in this work.
Towards a Sustainable Future
The wool industry is actively working to manage and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. In Australia, where over 90% of the world’s fine apparel wool is produced, ongoing research focuses on mitigating methane emissions. At the farm level, emissions are being offset by adopting better pasture species, enhancing soil management to boost carbon storage, and planting trees.
Wool also stands out in terms of sustainability during the use phase of clothing and at the end of its life. Consumers tend to wash wool garments less frequently, conserving water, energy, and detergent. Wool clothing is also more likely to be donated to charity, where it can be reused or recycled into new materials. When wool finally reaches the end of its life cycle, it biodegrades naturally, enriching the soil with valuable nutrients.
As a natural fibre, wool does not shed microplastics, making it an Eco-friendly option that helps protect ocean health. Scientific studies confirm that wool is biodegradable in both land and marine environments, further highlighting its environmental benefits.
Eco-Friendly Benefits of Wool
Wool is a naturally renewable material, with sheep producing new wool each year, offering a continuous and sustainable supply of fibre. Unlike synthetics made from fossil fuels, wool is replenished by nature, ensuring a sustainable cycle of production.
At the end of its life, wool naturally decomposes, breaking down into harmless compounds that enrich the soil. In contrast to synthetic fibres, which can persist in landfills for centuries, wool’s biodegradability helps reduce long-term environmental impact.
Wool possesses natural flame-resistant properties, eliminating the need for harmful chemical treatments often applied to synthetic fibres. This not only makes wool a safer choice for your home but also reduces the environmental burden of toxic chemicals.
The Hope
The future scope of utilization of recycled wool is also presented. More value addition, new avenue identification for usage, recycled wool-specific standards development, increased consumer awareness, and the government’s intervention in improving the utilization of recycled wool are looked upon as the scope for these recycled wool fibres.