Today, more than 70% of clothing worldwide is made from synthetic fibers.
The fashion industry is considered one of the most polluting industries globally — just after oil — and for good reason: the majority of synthetic fibers in clothing are derived from petrochemicals.
The most common ones are polyester, elastane, and acrylic.
These materials are created through chemical synthesis using petroleum-based components. In simple terms, they are plastic fibers engineered to imitate the look and feel of natural fabrics.
To better understand the alternatives, you can also read our article on natural fibers and their benefits.
Why was polyester considered a “miracle fiber”?
For decades, polyester was seen as a textile revolution.
It could be worn for long periods without ironing, resists shrinking and stretching, and is highly wrinkle-resistant and stain-resistant.
These technical properties explain the massive success of polyester clothing.
However, these performances are the result of industrial processes and chemical treatments.
A fabric that is wrinkle-free or ultra-durable is not a natural phenomenon — it often involves specific chemical finishes that are not always transparent.
Polyester environmental impact: what you should know
The topic of polyester environmental impact is increasingly discussed, as polyester is now the most widely used synthetic fiber in the global apparel industry.
Energy-intensive production
The production of polyester and other synthetic fibers requires:
- petroleum-based raw materials
- high energy consumption
- complex chemical processing
This manufacturing process generates air pollution and wastewater discharge.
The invisible pollution of microplastic fibers
The environmental issue does not stop at production.
The impact of synthetic fibers in clothing continues during everyday use.
Every time polyester garments are machine-washed, they release thousands of microplastic fibers into the water.
These particles are so small that they bypass wastewater treatment plants and end up in rivers, seas, and oceans.
This form of textile pollution contributes to the degradation of marine ecosystems and the accumulation of plastic in the food chain.
Synthetic vs natural fibers: making informed choices
This does not mean that all garments made from synthetic fibers should automatically be avoided.
Certain technical applications (sportswear, stretch fabrics, durability needs) can justify their use.
However, understanding the differences between synthetic vs natural fibers helps consumers make more informed decisions.
Beyond the environmental aspect, comfort and health also matter.
Polyester clothing is made from inert synthetic fibers.
Unlike natural fibers, they are not “living” materials — they do not regulate moisture or body temperature.
Because polyester is less breathable, it traps sweat more easily. This encourages bacterial growth, which can cause odors and irritate sensitive skin. As a result, these garments often need to be washed after only one or two wears.
Natural fibers, on the other hand, absorb moisture, allow the skin to breathe, and naturally reduce odor.
Often, simply airing them out is enough to refresh them — helping reduce the frequency of washing.
👉 You can also read our article on how to reduce the environmental impact of your clothing.
Synthetic fibers in clothing have transformed the textile industry thanks to their technical properties.
However, their dependence on fossil fuels, energy-intensive production processes, and the release of microplastic fibers raise important environmental concerns.
Understanding what your clothes are made of, learning about the polyester environmental impact, and exploring alternatives allows you to approach fashion in a more conscious and informed way.
