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Fashioning Fiber Futures
Summary
This study examines the environmental and social problems generated by the global fashion industry's dominance by synthetic fibre production, including microplastic pollution and carbon emissions, and evaluates Fibershed's regional fibre network model as an alternative. Using qualitative thematic analysis, researchers assess how localised, community-based fibre systems and Indigenous and Black American knowledge could advance sustainable textile futures.
In less than 100 years, the fashion and textile industry has transformed from local to global supply chains. Today, the industry is dominated by synthetic fiber production which produces garments that contribute to a variety of environmental and social issues such as microplastic pollution, increased carbon emissions, and abundant waste. In recent years, a response led by Fibershed has emerged which embraces a return to local fiber systems with a sincere focus on sustainable practices. Using qualitative thematic analysis, this study evaluates Fibershed’s approach to establishing regional fiber networks and offers possibilities for future expansion of Fibershed’s practices through policy and the inclusion of Indigenous and Black American knowledge and experience in order to create a more sustainable fashion future.