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In a world increasingly where consumers are become more aware of their environmental footprint, the shift towards minimally synthetic activewear is more crucial than ever. For surfers, ocean enthusiasts, and really every consumer, understanding the impact of our clothing choices on the environment is a step toward healing and protecting our oceans, as well as ourselves.
Microfibers and Their Impact:
New Findings: A recent study by Professor Jaime Ross from the University of Rhode Island has brought to light the alarming infiltration of microplastics, especially in mammals. These microplastics, predominantly found in synthetic materials like polyester, have been linked to serious health consequences, resembling dementia, particularly in older subjects.
Accumulation in Tissues: The study revealed that microplastics accumulate in various body tissues, including the brain, indicating a potential systemic circulation beyond the digestive system.
Implications for Health: The presence of microplastics in the brain could lead to decreased levels of glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer’s and conditions like depression.
The Case for Organic Cotton:
87% Organic Cotton: Choosing activewear composed mainly of organic cotton reduces the release of harmful microplastics into the environment. Organic cotton is a sustainable option that considerably lessens the pollution of our oceans and the air we breathe.
Less Microplastic Pollution: With fewer synthetic materials, organic cotton contributes to minimizing the widespread microplastic pollution, protecting both marine life and human health.
Water and Energy Efficiency: Organic cotton, compared to conventional cotton and synthetic fibers like polyester, generally requires less water and energy to produce. This means that garments made predominantly from organic cotton are less resource-intensive, contributing to a smaller environmental footprint.
Non-Reliance on Petroleum: Unlike polyester, which is a petroleum-based fiber, organic cotton is a natural, renewable resource. This non-reliance on fossil fuels for production makes organic cotton a more sustainable choice in the long run.
Chemical-Free Farming: Organic cotton is grown without the use of toxic pesticides and synthetic fertilizers, which not only reduces environmental contamination but also eliminates exposure risks for farmers and consumers. This form of agriculture supports healthier ecosystems and promotes biodiversity.
Why Not 100% Organic?:
Need for Spandex: While the aim is to maximize sustainability, the inclusion of 13% spandex in activewear is essential for elasticity and durability, ensuring the garments are functional and long-lasting for consumers.
Balancing Act: This composition is a balanced approach, offering eco-friendly solutions while maintaining the quality and performance expected in activewear.
Striving for 100% Natural Biodegradability:
Innovation and Research: At PuraKai, we are constantly exploring and investing in innovative solutions and research to develop a fabric that is 100% natural and fully biodegradable. Our aim is to ensure that our products leave as minimal an environmental impact as possible, aligning with our commitment to ocean conservation.
Natural Lifecycle: By creating a completely natural fabric, we aspire to design products that return to the earth at the end of their lifecycle, contributing to a circular economy and reducing waste. This approach will help alleviate the strain on landfills and decrease pollution, fostering a healthier planet.
Environmental Stewardship: Our pursuit of fully biodegradable fabrics reflects our dedication to environmental stewardship. We believe in leading by example, inspiring others in the industry and consumers alike to prioritize sustainability and make eco-conscious choices for the betterment of our oceans and the planet as a whole.
For those of us riding the waves and cherishing the sea, embracing sustainable clothing choices is a stride towards protecting our beloved oceans. The shift to minimally synthetic activewear, led by the adoption of organic cotton, is not just a trend – it’s a necessity. The findings from Professor Ross’s study serve as a stark reminder of the repercussions of microplastic pollution, urging us to be conscientious in our consumption and to advocate for a healthier, cleaner planet.