Introduction to Textile Manufacturing (TEXT-175)

Textiles and the Environment

Textiles and the Environment

• The textile and leather industries are the most environmentally harmful industries in the world!

• From raw material to end product, the majority of conventional substances and processes involved are hazardous to the ecosystem.

Major Pollutants

• Extreme pH bearing chemicals• Formaldehyde• Heavy Metal Residues• Pesticide & Antifungal Residues• Dyestuffs• Chlorination• Heavy metals• Ozone, brighteners, softeners etc.• Packaging• Noise

Why Go EcoFriendly?

• Social responsibility• Biodegradability issues• Health concerns• Absorption issues• Popularity• Protection of environment and species

Colourants

• Carcinogenic • Allergenic • Colour fastness • Usage and disposal of excess

Solid Waste

• Packaging• Fibre / fabric refuse

Gases and Airborne Particles

• Fibre matter (particles)• Sizing (Nitrogen oxides, Sulphur

oxides, Carbon monoxide)• Bleaching (Chlorine, Chlorine

dioxide)• Dyeing (Particles and vapours)• Printing (Hydrocarbons, ammonia)• Finishing (Formaldehyde, Carriers,

Polymers, lubricating oils)

Noise

• Detrimental to factory employees’ health

• Major stress inducer

Water & Energy Consumption

• High consumption of clean water• Energy intensive

Prevention

• As a producer, reduce the waste discharge by using the amount of chemical that can be used up during the process, to avoid excess

• As a consumer, go green, and reduce consumption of environmentally harmful materials

• Effluent treatment• International green standards• Reduce, reuse & recycle

Prevention

• Recognize pollution as your enemy and that the damage caused by it is irreversible and deadly.

• Be a part of the green movement by adopting green processes, technology, and materials.