China suppliers of eco-friendly clothing are taking a multipronged approach to supporting their claims of environmental protection. Manufacturers are motivated by more consumers who are beginning to seek earth-safe apparel as part of a holistic "green" lifestyle. This is especially true in developed economies such as the US and the EU. The national government is also driving growth in the industry. The country's targets for reducing energy consumption and water pollution have been key in pushing factories to commit to resource conservation.
These factors are contributing to a positive outlook for the sector in 2012. Even with cost issues, exporters project a significant increase in revenue.
1. Suppliers continue to utilize sustainable fabrics for their selections, including organic cotton, bamboo rayon and charcoal, linen, PLA and recycled PET. The fibers are evaluated by third-party testing institutes against standards such as GOTS. Output consists mostly of casual basics.
2. Makers are also adopting natural and nonpolluting dyes, reusable packaging and collaterals from reclaimed materials.
3. Businesses are reducing electricity consumption by switching to LED bulbs and phasing out inefficient machinery. Cold-transfer and dyesublimation printing also help lower energy use.
4. Manufacturers with dyeing, washing and tanning capability are treating and recycling wastewater in compliance with new laws. Several large enterprises have invested in chemical precipitation and oxidation equipment. Most small and midsize operations, however, employ community facilities at industrial parks.
5. Apart from water, tanners are reusing lime liquor and chrome tannins. Recovered hair can be employed as fertilizer.
6. A few denim garment companies are acquiring washing units that do not require water and chemical agents. Stones with better abrasive quality than pumice are used to shorten processing time.
7. Product prices will increase up to 10 percent next year due to growing material and labor costs, and the higher value of the yuan compared with the US dollar.
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