Advances in Renewable Natural Materials for Textile Sustainability

Book excerpt: Advances in Renewable Natural Materials for Textile Sustainability promotes sustainable practices in the textile industry through exploring the use of natural materials in textile production. The book delves into the advantages of using natural materials at every stage of textile processing, from fiber production to textile wet processing (dyeing, printing, finishing), and recycling after end use. The chapters provide critical discussions on natural materials for functional and smart textiles, sustainable methods of their preparation, application, and environmental impact of using biobased materials. It also discusses opportunities and challenges. Offers a comprehensive overview of the historical significance of natural fibers in textile production, the environmental impact of textile manufacturing, and the role of natural materials in reducing this impact. Provides examples of successfully implemented sustainable production processes. Discusses upcycling and repurposing of natural textile materials, sustainable textile waste management and recycling, and the use of natural colorants for dyeing and finishing textiles. Covers the use of biobased finishing agents, enzymes, and natural material-based auxiliaries in sustainable textile production and discusses biopolymers and nanocellulose and their potential in textile applications. Explores sustainable textile reinforcement using natural fibers and natural fiber-based composites and their applications. Considers the future of sustainable fashion and the role of natural materials in smart textiles for advanced applications like textile packaging, medical applications, textile sensors, and actuators, among others. With its comprehensive coverage, this book is an essential resource for professionals, researchers, and academics in the textile industry and anyone interested in sustainability in the fashion and textiles. It offers valuable insights for readers who want to make more informed choices and contribute to a more sustainable future.