COPENHAGEN - A new report advises caution over claims that "bio-based fibres", including cotton, wool and viscose, are more sustainable than fossil-based synthetic textiles such as polyester.
The study, entitled 'The role of bio-based textile fibres in a circular and sustainable textiles system', is the work of the European Topic Centre on Circular Economy and Resource Use (ETC CE).
It says that while bio-based fibres offer potential to steer away from plastic-based synthetic textiles, they cause other environmental pressures, including water and land use related to agricultural activities, deforestation and fibre processing.
