Strange Bikinis is a company committed to the long-term sustainability of the planet, which is why we have explored and identified options – including the use of biodegradable fabric - for ensuring that our bikinis and one-piece options do not have a profoundly negative impact on the environment. Of the 53 million tons of clothing manufactured annually, nearly three-quarters end up in landfills or get incinerated. Clearly, this is an area where we can all make better and more sustainable choices. Consumer demand for eco-friendly options is up, and companies are increasingly integrating sustainability into their mission, vision, and core values.
Some industry leaders, including Strange Bikinis, are also fundamentally transforming textile production by exploring innovative ways that reduce waste and mitigate some of the ecological impacts of manufacturing. While there are many ways to lessen the environmental effects of textile production, one of the biggest choices is whether to use biodegradable fabric or recycled fabric. Recycled fabric does have some benefits, but to truly achieve the sexy look and long-lasting comfort that Strange Bikinis strives for, we found that biodegradable fabric is the best option.
Environmental Benefits of Biodegradable Fabric
Many of today’s garments use synthetic materials that are chemically produced and non-biodegradable, even though they are recyclable. While recycling is one way to prolong the lifecycle of the fabric and delay its entry to a landfill, recycling still involves the use of chemicals, dyes, and processes that are not environmentally friendly. The process of polymerization involves the chemical dissolution of fibers so that they may be reused. Chemicals are also used to break down existing dyes in recycled fabrics, but employing these chemicals comes with an environmental price as well. And even when recycling plastic bottles for use in fabric, the process takes a huge amount of water, which is one of our most valuable and limited resources.
Additionally, the microplastic particles that come from new and recycled synthetic materials present another environmental challenge. Nearly 1% of the total manufactured textile amount, or 0.5 million tons, ends up in the global water supply as these microplastics break off when washing these materials. Fish and other marine animals then consume the microfibers, which can then end up in our bodies when we eat them. These toxic microplastics, whether from new or recycled fabric, are a tremendous threat to the health of all living creatures on the planet.
Biodegradable fabrics, on the other hand, do not leak microplastics or microfibers with any negative effects and do not use harmful methods and chemicals for production. The organic material is produced in a manner that reduces waste and pollution. Water is preserved and reused whenever possible, ensuring that minimal resources are used up during production.
And best of all, our biodegradable swimsuits are durable, but when disposed of, they break down. When certain conditions are met, such as high humidity, a lack of oxygen, and high concentrations of anaerobic bacteria (such as in a landfill), the swimwear breaks down similar to other biodegradable materials, like wood or paper. The material completely decomposes within three years, ensuring that there is no trace of it left on the planet lingering for years to come.
While Strange Bikinis commends all companies that are committed to implementing more sustainable production practices, including those using recycled fabric, we also felt that there were still better options that make more of an impact on sustainability. Biodegradable fabric is simply the best option from a sustainable ecological perspective – and we weren’t willing to settle for anything less than the best. Collective prioritization of sustainability by consumers and manufacturers is the only way to truly make a difference.
The Feel of Biodegradable Fabric
While the environmental benefits of biodegradable fabric use alone are enough to justify our decision to use it over recycled fabric, there is another huge benefit that cannot be overlooked. Biodegradable fabric feels much different. It is super soft and plush compared to the harsh stiffness that is found with many recycled fabrics.
Biodegradable organic cotton is made from natural fibers without the use of pesticides or chemicals. It also wicks away sweat, is breathable, durable, flexible, and soft. All of these features ensure that every single one of our bikinis or one-piece swimsuits maximizes comfort for the wearer.
In addition to the use of biodegradable fabric, each of our suits is handmade in small batches and hand-sewn by specialists. These features ensure that you will end up with a swimsuit that both look sexy and stylish, while also ensuring that it has a minimal impact on our environment.
The Strange Bikinis Promise
Ultimately, the choice of whether to use biodegradable fabric or recycled fabric was easy for us to make at Strange Bikinis. We value both our customers’ happiness and satisfaction as well as prioritizing our eco-friendly goals. The use of biodegradable fabric gave us an opportunity to fulfill both of our goals. These fabrics have a minimal impact on the environment, ensuring that they remain the most sustainable option that ensures the continued health of the planet and its water systems. They don’t leak microplastics, which also promotes the continued health of all living creatures.
And finally, embracing the innovative nature of biodegradable fabrics also ensures that we can provide our customers with swimwear that has the best possible fit for each body type, no matter what shape you may be. Biodegradable fabric is durable, long-lasting, and won’t break down until you no longer need it. It’s a smart financial choice as well since you have the peace of mind of knowing you are getting a high-quality, unique, handmade article of clothing that will remain in style for years to come.
With swimsuit season fast approaching, eco-conscious consumers will want to look into our innovative and flattering swimwear pieces. Selecting a Strange Bikini swimsuit will ensure that you are happy with the cut and fit of your suit, while also leaving you feeling satisfied that you made a healthy and sustainable choice for the future of our planet.