Cotton vs. Polyester: A Look at the Environmental Impact of These Popular Fabrics

Cotton is a natural fiber that is biodegradable and recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice. It can be grown without the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, and when hand-picked, spun and woven, it reduces the carbon footprint. Furthermore, cotton is a renewable resource, as the cotton plant can be grown again and again.

Polyester, on the other hand, is a synthetic fiber made from petroleum-based products. It is not biodegradable and takes hundreds of years to break down in the environment. The production of polyester requires large amounts of energy and produces harmful chemical pollutants that are released into the air and water. Additionally, polyester is not recyclable, and it's disposal could have negative impact on the environment.

In summary, cotton is a more sustainable choice than polyester as it is a natural, biodegradable and renewable fiber that can be grown without the use of synthetic chemicals.