Sustainable Fibres

Sustainable Production
Jury Assignment

Submitted By:

Nikhil Anand (BFT/22/320)

Jishnu (BFT/22/359)

Vibha S. Vinod (BFT/22/724)

Yatik A.M. (BFT/22/354)

 Table of Content

Why Sustainable Fibres?...............................................................................................................3

Classification of sustainable fibres................................................................................................3
Natural........................................................................................................................................3
Regenerated................................................................................................................................4
Recycled.....................................................................................................................................4
Bio-Based...................................................................................................................................4
Properties Difference..................................................................................................................... 5
COTTON....................................................................................................................................5
POLYESTER............................................................................................................................. 6
NYLON......................................................................................................................................6
Conventional Cotton vs Organic Cotton......................................................................................6
Water Use...................................................................................................................................7
Soil Health................................................................................................................................. 7
Cost............................................................................................................................................ 7
Environmental Impact................................................................................................................8
Challenges in Adopting Sustainable Fibres.................................................................................8
1. High Production Costs and Technological Barriers...............................................................8
2. Limited Availability and Scalability...................................................................................... 8
3. Risk of Greenwashing............................................................................................................9
4. Low Consumer Awareness and Education.............................................................................9
5. Lack of Policy Support and Regulatory Frameworks............................................................ 9
6. Insufficient Recycling Infrastructure......................................................................................9
7. Compromises in Performance and Circularity.......................................................................9
Case Study: AltMat – Pioneering Sustainable Fibre Innovation in India................................ 9
Overview..................................................................................................................................10
Sustainable Fibre Production Process......................................................................................10

1
 Environmental and Resource Benefits..................................................................................... 10
Product Applications and Versatility........................................................................................11
Economic and Social Impact................................................................................................... 11
Conclusion............................................................................................................................... 12
Primary Analysis..........................................................................................................................13
Organic Cotton.........................................................................................................................13
Hemp........................................................................................................................................15
Cotton Modal........................................................................................................................... 17
Recycled Polyester...................................................................................................................19
Recycled Cotton.......................................................................................................................21
Supplier Details........................................................................................................................22
Comparative Analysis of Fabric Properties for Sustainable T-Shirt Production.................. 23
1. Softness: Evaluating the Comfort Factor Across Fabrics.................................................... 23
2. Breathability: Airflow and Thermal Comfort Considerations............................................. 23
3. Moisture Absorption: Performance in Sweat and Humidity Management..........................23
4. Durability: Lifespan and Resistance to Wear.......................................................................24
5. Wrinkle Resistance: Aesthetic Maintenance and Practicality............................................. 24
6. Shrinkage: Dimensional Stability After Washing................................................................ 24
7. Texture and Feel: Tactile Sensation and Consumer Appeal.................................................25
8. Ideal Applications in T-Shirt Manufacturing....................................................................... 25
Inference from Consumer Awareness Survey on Sustainable Garments............................... 26
1. High Awareness of Sustainable Fibers Among Respondents.............................................. 27
2. Sustainability as a Key Consideration in Fashion Purchases...............................................27
3. Gap Between Awareness and Action in Sustainable Purchases.......................................... 27
4. Strong Habit of Label-Checking Reflects Informed Consumer Behavior........................... 27
5. Price Sensitivity as a Barrier to Sustainable Fashion Adoption...........................................27
6. Positive Word-of-Mouth Potential for Sustainable Brands..................................................27
Combined Inference from Primary and Secondary Research on Sustainable Fibres and
Garment Manufacturing............................................................................................................. 28
1. Understanding of Sustainable Fibres................................................................................... 28
2. Challenges in Adoption....................................................................................................... 28
3. Feasibility in Manufacturing................................................................................................28
4. Case Study – AltMat & Similar Innovations....................................................................... 29
Bibliography................................................................................................................................. 30

2
Why Sustainable Fibres?
Sustainable fibres play a crucial role in transforming the textile industry into a more
environmentally responsible and health-conscious sector. Unlike conventional fibres, sustainable
alternatives are often cultivated and processed without the use of harmful chemicals, making
finished garments safer for consumers by minimizing the risk of allergic reactions and skin
irritations.

Traditional fibre production is resource-intensive, consuming vast amounts of water and energy
while relying heavily on toxic chemicals. This has contributed to the textile sector becoming the
second-largest global polluter. In contrast, sustainable fibres significantly reduce environmental
impact by conserving water, lowering carbon emissions, and supporting cleaner production
practices throughout the supply chain.

Furthermore, sustainable fibres enhance the circularity of fashion by enabling easier recycling
and upcycling. By extending the lifespan of textiles and diverting waste from landfills, these
fibres support a closed-loop system that keeps valuable materials in use for longer and minimizes
overall waste generation.

Classification of sustainable fibres

Natural

Natural fibres are obtained directly from biological sources such as plants and animals, and they
are among the oldest materials used in textile production. These fibres are typically harvested,
cleaned, and spun with minimal chemical intervention, making them an eco-friendly option.
Their biodegradability ensures that they return to the environment without contributing to
long-term pollution. Natural fibres are also known for their breathability, softness, and
hypoallergenic properties, making them a preferred choice for both comfort and sustainability.
Additionally, many natural fibres can be grown in low-input agricultural systems, reducing the
need for synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.​
Examples: Organic Cotton (grown without toxic pesticides), Linen (from flax, requires less
water and chemicals), Wool (renewable and insulating), Hemp (strong, fast-growing, and
carbon-negative), Jute (biodegradable and water-efficient).

3
Regenerated

Regenerated fibres are semi-synthetic materials made by chemically transforming natural

polymers such as cellulose, commonly sourced from wood pulp or agricultural waste, into a
usable fibre form. These fibres bridge the gap between natural and synthetic materials, offering a
smooth texture and high performance while originating from renewable sources. The
manufacturing process typically involves solvents and spinning methods, but modern techniques,
such as closed-loop systems, significantly reduce environmental harm by capturing and reusing
chemicals. Regenerated fibres are especially valued for their softness, drapability, and versatility
across textile applications.​
Examples: Lyocell (produced via a closed-loop process with non-toxic solvents), Modal
(sourced from beech trees, known for softness), Ioncell (a newer fibre developed using
eco-friendly ionic liquids).

Recycled

Recycled fibres are produced from previously used materials—either from post-consumer
products like discarded garments and plastic bottles, or from post-industrial textile waste. By
reintroducing these materials into the production cycle, recycled fibres drastically reduce landfill
waste, lower dependency on virgin resources, and decrease overall energy and water usage.
Mechanically or chemically recycled fibres help extend the life cycle of resources and are
integral to the principles of circular fashion. The quality of recycled fibres is improving steadily
due to advancements in sorting, cleaning, and processing technologies.​
Examples: Recycled Cotton (reclaimed from textile scraps or worn garments), Recycled
Polyester (rPET) (commonly sourced from PET bottles), Recycled Nylon (e.g., ECONYL®,
made from fishing nets and industrial plastic waste).

Bio Based

Bio-based fibres are derived from renewable biological resources and are often developed
through innovative lab processes. These fibres aim to mimic or enhance the functionality of
traditional materials while significantly lowering ecological impact. Unlike petroleum-based
synthetics, bio-based fibres are designed to be biodegradable or recyclable, with some even
offering compostable options. Their development represents a leap in sustainable textile
innovation, often integrating biotechnology, agricultural residues, or microbial synthesis. These

4
fibres are gaining attention for their performance, novelty, and alignment with sustainability
goals in fashion and industrial textiles.​
Examples: Banana Fibre (extracted from banana plant stalks, strong and biodegradable), Lotus
Fibre (hand-extracted, lightweight, and breathable), Spider Silk (lab-grown biomimicry of natural
spider silk, offering high strength and elasticity).

Properties Difference
Understanding the key differences in fibre properties between conventional and sustainable
alternatives is essential for assessing performance, comfort, and environmental impact. Below is
a detailed comparison of widely used textile fibres—cotton, polyester, nylon, and cotton variants
(organic vs recycled)—across conventional and sustainable production approaches:

COTTON​

Conventional Cotton

●​ May be less durable due to extensive chemical processing, which can weaken fibre
integrity.
●​ Often carries chemical residues such as pesticides or synthetic softeners, which can
irritate sensitive skin.
●​ The softness of the fabric may vary and is frequently compromised by harsh treatments
during manufacturing.
●​ Frequently produced using genetically modified (GMO) seeds to increase yield, though
this raises ecological and ethical concerns.

Sustainable Cotton (e.g., Organic Cotton)

●​ Fibres are typically stronger and more resilient due to the absence of harsh chemicals in
the processing phase.
●​ Hypoallergenic qualities make it safer and more comfortable for individuals with
sensitive skin.
●​ Maintains a naturally soft texture as fewer chemical softeners or finishes are used.
●​ Produced from non-GMO seeds, supporting biodiversity and long-term soil health.​

5
POLYESTER​

Conventional Polyester

●​ Exhibits high tensile strength, making it resistant to tearing and stretching under stress.
●​ Durable and suitable for performance or industrial applications due to its
strength-to-weight ratio.

Recycled Polyester

●​ Although still strong and functional, it may exhibit slightly reduced tensile strength as a
result of fibre shortening during the mechanical recycling process.
●​ Despite this, it remains a popular sustainable choice due to its potential to reduce plastic
waste and lower reliance on virgin petroleum resources.

NYLON​

Conventional Nylon

●​ Known for its exceptional strength, elasticity, and abrasion resistance, making it ideal for
sportswear, hosiery, and technical textiles.

Recycled Nylon

●​ Offers similar levels of strength and performance as its virgin counterpart.

●​ However, some minor reductions in durability can occur due to the nature of the recycling
process, particularly if fibres are broken down mechanically.

Conventional Cotton vs Organic Cotton

The choice between conventional and organic cotton plays a crucial role in determining the
overall sustainability of textile production. The following comparison highlights the key
differences between the two based on environmental, agricultural, and economic criteria:

6
Water Use

●​ Conventional Cotton: Requires significantly high volumes of water, often relying on

intensive irrigation methods. It is estimated that producing 1 kilogram of conventional
cotton can consume over 10,000 liters of water, contributing to water stress in arid
regions.​

●​ Organic Cotton: Utilizes substantially less water, often grown in rain-fed regions, and
with farming practices that enhance the soil's water retention. This makes organic cotton
cultivation more water-efficient and environmentally responsible.​

Pesticides

●​ Conventional Cotton: Involves heavy use of synthetic pesticides and insecticides, which
not only affect the health of farmers but also contaminate soil and water sources, posing
risks to surrounding ecosystems.​

●​ Organic Cotton: Grown without the use of harmful pesticides or insecticides. Instead, it
employs natural pest control methods, such as crop rotation, trap crops, and beneficial
insects, ensuring a safer and non-toxic farming environment.​

Soil Health

●​ Conventional Cotton: Intensive farming and chemical use degrade soil quality over time,
depleting essential nutrients and reducing soil biodiversity. Continuous cropping can lead
to erosion and desertification.​

●​ Organic Cotton: Focuses on regenerative practices like composting, mulching, and crop
rotation, which enhance soil fertility and structure. Organic farming promotes long-term
soil health and resilience.​

Cost

●​ Conventional Cotton: Generally cheaper to produce due to established large-scale supply

chains, government subsidies, and the use of fast-growth genetically modified (GMO)

7
 seeds. However, this lower cost often comes at a high environmental price.​

●​ Organic Cotton: Slightly more expensive due to lower yields, labor-intensive methods,
and certification processes. However, the additional cost reflects the true value of
sustainable, ethical farming and reduced ecological impact.​

Environmental Impact

●​ Conventional Cotton: Has a significant negative environmental footprint, including water

pollution, soil degradation, and high carbon emissions from synthetic inputs and
mechanization.​

●​ Organic Cotton: Offers a minimal environmental footprint by eliminating toxic inputs,

conserving water, and supporting biodiversity. It aligns with global goals for sustainable
agriculture and climate action.​

Challenges in Adopting Sustainable Fibres

While sustainable fibres present a promising path toward reducing the environmental footprint of
the textile industry, their widespread adoption faces several obstacles. These challenges span
economic, technological, regulatory, and consumer awareness domains, making the transition
complex for both manufacturers and consumers.

1. High Production Costs and Technological Barriers

Sustainable fibre cultivation and processing often demand higher initial investments. Organic
farming methods, chemical-free processing, and the use of renewable energy or closed-loop
systems require advanced, often expensive, technology. Moreover, the machinery involved in
spinning, weaving, and finishing sustainable fabrics tends to be energy-efficient but costly, which
can deter small- and medium-scale enterprises from making the shift.

2. Limited Availability and Scalability

Many innovative fibres, such as spider silk or lotus fibre, are still in the experimental or pilot
stages of production. Others like banana fibre or Ioncell exist only in limited regions or through
niche suppliers. This lack of mass-scale availability prevents major brands from integrating them
widely into their collections, reducing their market visibility and consumer reach.

8
3. Risk of Greenwashing

As sustainability becomes a marketing trend, some brands exaggerate or falsely claim

environmental benefits—a practice known as greenwashing. This undermines genuine efforts to
adopt sustainable fibres and misleads consumers. Without transparency and third-party
certifications, it becomes difficult to distinguish truly sustainable products from those with
misleading claims.

4. Low Consumer Awareness and Education

A significant portion of consumers remains unaware of what sustainable fibres are, how they are
produced, and why they matter. Without adequate knowledge of the benefits, such as reduced
chemical exposure, water savings, or biodegradability, consumers may not prioritize
sustainability in their purchasing decisions, reducing demand for eco-friendly alternatives.

5. Lack of Policy Support and Regulatory Frameworks

In many countries, there is limited or no legislation that mandates or incentivizes the use of
sustainable fibres. The absence of policy-level enforcement means that conventional, polluting
fibres continue to dominate markets without penalty, slowing the shift to greener alternatives.

6. Insufficient Recycling Infrastructure

The adoption of recycled fibres, especially post-consumer textiles, is hampered by the lack of
robust collection, sorting, and recycling infrastructure in many parts of the world. Without
systems in place to retrieve and repurpose textile waste, circular economy initiatives remain
difficult to scale.

7. Compromises in Performance and Circularity

In practice, recycled fibres often face quality limitations. For instance, recycled cotton typically
has shorter fibres, compromising strength. To address this, manufacturers may blend it with
synthetic fibres like polyester. While this improves durability, it complicates future recycling and
reduces the material’s overall biodegradability, undermining its sustainability profile.

Case Study: AltMat – Pioneering Sustainable Fibre Innovation

in India

9
Overview

AltMat is a forward-thinking Indian company at the forefront of sustainable textile innovation.

The organization has carved a niche by converting agricultural waste, particularly from banana,
hemp, and nettle plants, into high-quality, eco-conscious raw materials for the textile industry. By
tackling two major environmental issues—textile pollution and agricultural residue—AltMat
champions the principles of a circular textile economy. Their business model effectively
integrates sustainability with socio-economic upliftment, positioning them as a leading player in
India’s green textile transition.

Sustainable Fibre Production Process

AltMat’s proprietary technology lies at the heart of its innovation. The company transforms
agricultural by-products, which would typically be discarded or incinerated, into usable fibres.
This conversion process is not only environmentally efficient but also remarkably
resource-conscious:

●​ Water Efficiency: The production of 1 kilogram of AltMat fibre consumes less than 15
litres of water—a stark contrast to conventional cotton production, which can require
approximately 15,000 litres per kilogram.​

●​ Energy and Chemical Reduction: AltMat’s fibre manufacturing process eliminates or

drastically reduces the need for harmful chemicals and high energy inputs typically
associated with fibre extraction and processing.​

●​ Biodegradability: The fibres produced are fully biodegradable, making them suitable for
closed-loop production models and reinforcing the company's commitment to textile
circularity.​

●​ Blending Capability: These sustainable fibres can be effectively blended with other
materials such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, and lyocell. This compatibility
enhances their versatility and appeal across different sectors of the textile market,
including fashion, home textiles, and technical fabrics.​

Environmental and Resource Benefits

10
AltMat’s process addresses some of the most pressing concerns in textile manufacturing through
the lens of resource efficiency and sustainability:

●​ Substantial Reduction in Resource Use: By leveraging agricultural waste, the company

minimizes the exploitation of natural resources like water and fossil fuels.​

●​ Waste Valorization: Instead of allowing crop residue to be burned (a major source of air
pollution), AltMat purchases it from farmers, creating a valuable supply chain link that
benefits both the environment and local communities.​

Product Applications and Versatility

The fibres produced by AltMat are not limited to traditional yarn applications. They are suitable
for a wide range of textile uses, such as:

●​ Woven and Knitted Yarns

●​ Non-woven Fabrics
●​ Home Insulation
●​ Industrial Applications
●​ Eco-friendly Paper and Packaging

This versatility ensures that AltMat's solutions are scalable and adaptable across different
segments of the textile value chain.

Economic and Social Impact

Beyond its environmental impact, AltMat’s business model contributes significantly to rural
development and economic sustainability:

●​ Farmer Empowerment: By creating a market for crop residues, AltMat provides

farmers with an additional income stream, thereby incentivizing sustainable agricultural
practices.​

●​ Promotion of Multipurpose Crops: The company encourages the cultivation of

high-value, low-impact crops like hemp, which are not only suitable for textile fibres but
also have applications in construction, nutrition, and cosmetics, offering farmers
diversified revenue streams.​

11
Conclusion

AltMat exemplifies how innovation in sustainable fibres can holistically address multiple
sustainability challenges in the textile industry. Their model effectively tackles environmental
degradation through reduced water and chemical use, mitigates agricultural waste, supports rural
economies, and provides textile manufacturers with biodegradable and versatile alternatives. As
such, AltMat sets a precedent for scalable, inclusive, and circular textile production in developing
economies and beyond.

12
Primary Analysis

Organic Cotton

13
14
Hemp

15
16
Cotton Modal

17
18
Recycled Polyester

19
20
Recycled Cotton

21
Supplier Details

22
Comparative Analysis of Fabric Properties for Sustainable
T-Shirt Production
This section explores and contrasts the core characteristics of five commonly used fabrics in
sustainable fashion—Hemp-Organic Cotton Blend, Modal, Organic Cotton, Recycled
Polyester, and Recycled Cotton—focusing on their functional attributes, user experience, and
suitability for specific clothing applications, especially T-shirts.

1. Softness: Evaluating the Comfort Factor Across Fabrics

●​ Hemp-Organic Cotton Blend: Offers moderate to high softness, with the feel improving
over time and with repeated washes, making it increasingly comfortable for long-term
wear.
●​ Modal: Exceptionally high in softness, providing a silky and smooth texture that gives it
a luxurious touch, ideal for premium clothing.
●​ Organic Cotton: Medium softness; it feels familiar and natural but slightly coarse
compared to more processed fabrics.
●​ Recycled Polyester: Medium softness that may feel synthetic; the plastic-like feel may
be less appealing for comfort-focused consumers.
●​ Recycled Cotton: Ranges from low to medium softness due to its coarser texture
compared to virgin cotton, often preferred in vintage or rugged styles.​

2. Breathability: Airflow and Thermal Comfort Considerations

●​ Hemp-Organic Cotton Blend, Modal, and Organic Cotton: All three fabrics score high in
breathability, ensuring good airflow and making them ideal for warmer climates or active
use.
●​ Recycled Polyester and Recycled Cotton: Offer medium breathability, which may limit
comfort in high-performance or hot-weather scenarios.​

3. Moisture Absorption: Performance in Sweat and Humidity Management

●​ Hemp-Organic Cotton Blend: Excellent moisture absorption due to hemp’s natural

wicking properties.
●​ Modal: Very high moisture absorption, outperforming cotton and maintaining comfort
during physical activity.

23
 ●​ Organic Cotton: High absorption capacity, though not as efficient in wicking as modal or
hemp.
●​ Recycled Polyester: Absorbs less moisture, rating low to medium, which may affect
comfort under sweaty conditions.
●​ Recycled Cotton: Performs moderately, better than polyester but not as effective as
virgin cotton.​

4. Durability: Lifespan and Resistance to Wear

●​ Hemp-Organic Cotton Blend: Very high durability attributed to the inherent strength of
hemp fibers.
●​ Modal and Organic Cotton: Both have medium durability, suitable for regular wear but
may show signs of aging over time.
●​ Recycled Polyester: High durability, especially under physical strain, making it suitable
for sports and performance gear.
●​ Recycled Cotton: Lower durability due to the breakdown of fibers during recycling,
leading to a shorter usable life.​

5. Wrinkle Resistance: Aesthetic Maintenance and Practicality

●​ Modal, Recycled Polyester: High wrinkle resistance—ideal for consumers seeking

low-maintenance clothing.
●​ Hemp-Organic Cotton Blend: Moderate resistance—may need light ironing or
steaming.
●​ Organic Cotton and Recycled Cotton: Low wrinkle resistance—likely to crease easily,
affecting visual appeal.​

6. Shrinkage: Dimensional Stability After Washing

●​ Modal and Recycled Polyester: Low shrinkage—maintains size and shape well after
repeated washing.
●​ Hemp-Organic Cotton Blend: Low to medium shrinkage—hemp reduces overall shrink
tendency.
●​ Organic Cotton: Medium shrinkage—prone to size reduction if not pre-shrunk.

24
 ●​ Recycled Cotton: High shrinkage—requires cautious laundering to maintain garment
integrity.​

7. Texture and Feel: Tactile Sensation and Consumer Appeal

●​ Hemp-Organic Cotton Blend: Slightly textured and breathable—a natural, earthy

hand-feel.
●​ Modal: Silky, drapey, and luxurious—ideal for a premium market.
●​ Organic Cotton: Soft and familiar—a balanced feel between comfort and natural fiber
character.
●​ Recycled Polyester: Smooth but with a slightly synthetic, plastic-like finish.
●​ Recycled Cotton: Rougher with a vintage aesthetic—popular for rugged or upcycled
fashion.​

8. Ideal Applications in T-Shirt Manufacturing

●​ Hemp-Organic Cotton Blend: Best for eco-conscious, casual wearers who prioritize
sustainability and comfort.
●​ Modal: Suitable for premium, lightweight T-shirts offering elevated comfort and luxury
appeal.
●​ Organic Cotton: A staple for everyday wear—versatile and widely accepted in the
sustainable market.
●​ Recycled Polyester: Favored in activewear and printed tees due to its durability and
wrinkle resistance.
●​ Recycled Cotton: Popular in vintage-inspired fashion or recycled clothing lines that
emphasize texture and sustainability.

25
Inference from Consumer Awareness Survey on Sustainable
Garments

26
1. High Awareness of Sustainable Fibers Among Respondents

A vast majority of respondents (96.1%) indicated awareness of sustainable fibers, showcasing a

strong foundation of knowledge regarding environmentally conscious materials. This high level
of awareness reflects effective dissemination of sustainability concepts among young consumers,
particularly within educational environments such as NIFT.

2. Sustainability as a Key Consideration in Fashion Purchases

When asked about the importance of sustainability in their fashion purchasing decisions, 32.7%
considered it “Important,” while 19.2% rated it as “Very Important.” Although 40.4% remained
neutral, only 7.7% regarded it as “Not Very Important.” These figures suggest that while
sustainability is a significant factor, there is still a considerable segment of consumers who
remain indifferent or unconvinced of its priority in fashion choices.

3. Gap Between Awareness and Action in Sustainable Purchases

Despite high awareness, only 38.5% of participants had actively purchased fashion items
specifically for being sustainable or eco-friendly. A larger portion (61.5%) had not. This reveals a
discrepancy between knowledge and behavior, possibly influenced by factors such as cost,
availability, or brand trust.

4. Strong Habit of Label-Checking Reflects Informed Consumer Behavior

An impressive 76.9% of respondents habitually check manufacturing labels before purchasing

clothing, indicating a significant portion of young consumers value transparency and traceability
in their fashion choices. This behavior supports the idea that label information can influence
sustainable decisions.

5. Price Sensitivity as a Barrier to Sustainable Fashion Adoption

Over half the respondents (53.9%) were unwilling to pay a 20% premium for sustainable fashion
products, while 46.1% were open to the idea. This illustrates price as a key barrier, even among
sustainability-aware consumers, highlighting the need for more affordable, eco-friendly fashion
options.

6. Positive Word-of-Mouth Potential for Sustainable Brands

27
A large majority (84.6%) expressed willingness to recommend sustainable fashion brands to
others. This indicates strong peer-to-peer advocacy potential, which could be a crucial driver for
the growth of ethical fashion if supported by brand credibility and visible impact.

Combined Inference from Primary and Secondary Research on

Sustainable Fibres and Garment Manufacturing

1.​ Understanding of Sustainable Fibres​

○​ Secondary Research: Provided a theoretical framework—explaining the types of

sustainable fibers, their environmental benefits, and known challenges.​

○​ Primary Research: Validated this framework through market data—analyzing

fiber availability, actual supplier offerings, and fabric performance.​
Conclusion: Theoretical knowledge was reinforced by real-world sourcing
conditions, confirming that the academic understanding aligns with industry
realities.​

2.​ Challenges in Adoption​

○​ Secondary Research: Highlighted systemic barriers such as high production

costs, limited infrastructure, and issues like greenwashing.​

○​ Primary Research: Substantiated these issues with concrete supplier data,

showing high price points, minimum order quantity (MOQ) restrictions, lead time
constraints, and inconsistencies in certification.​
Conclusion: Market and supplier feedback demonstrated practical limitations that
hinder large-scale adoption of sustainable textiles.​

3.​ Feasibility in Manufacturing​

○​ Secondary Research: Focused on the sustainability potential and environmental

advantages of various fibers.​

28
 ○​ Primary Research: Evaluated the actual feasibility of using these fibers in
180–210 GSM T-shirt production, including pricing and sourcing challenges.​
Conclusion: The research bridged the gap between theoretical benefits and
production practicality, offering a clearer picture of what can be implemented on
the ground.​

4.​ Case Study – AltMat & Similar Innovations​

○​ Secondary Research: Presented AltMat as a successful example of agri-waste

fiber innovation, showcasing sustainability in action.​

○​ Primary Research: Explored similar innovations in the market and their current
supply chain availability.​
Conclusion: Demonstrated that sustainable innovation is not just theoretical but
increasingly viable and accessible within commercial supply networks.

29
Bibliography
1.​ Cotton Incorporated. (2020). Conventional vs. Organic Cotton: Key Differences.
Retrieved fromṣ
2.​ https://cottontoday.cottoninc.com
3.​ Caslay. (n.d.). Organic Cotton vs Conventional Cotton: Key Differences. Retrieved from
4.​ https://caslay.in/blogs/news/organic-cotton-vs-conventional-cotton-key-differences
5.​ AltMat. (n.d.). Sustainable Fibre Innovation from Agricultural Waste. Retrieved from
6.​ https://altmat.in
7.​ H&M Group. (n.d.). Product & Supplier Details for Organic Cotton T-Shirts. (Used for
comparative analysis in primary research.)
8.​ Student Survey. (2025). Consumer Perceptions & Purchase Behavior Related to
Sustainable Fibres. (Primary data collected through questionnaires.)
9.​ Supplier Interviews. (2025). Market Availability and Pricing for Sustainable Fibres.
(Primary research conducted through virtual meetings and telephonic conversations.)
10.​Lecture Notes & Curriculum Resources. (2025). Fashion Sustainability & Fibre
Innovation. (Used as background for topic selection and framework.)

30