&cDisp=Ethical from Farm to Fabric&

&tDisp=Critical evaluation of the raw material, production, use and disposal phases in Lifecycle analysis is at the heart of the INSTYLE LIFE textiles¨ collection. INSTYLE'S choice of raw material and process options for this sustainable textiles collection highlights environmental, ethical and economic benefits of well informed decisions and highlights how gaps can occur between theoretical and realisable improvements in 'design for sustainability' systems.

The selection of natural virgin material fibres over recycled PET reveals the potential pitfalls of addressing one part of the lifecycle in isolation. Textile fibres made from recycled PET plastics utilise energy embodied in the petrochemical based plastic and can reduce waste material impact on landfill. However, toxicity remains an issue in the finished textile, and the lack of recycling facilities in Australia mean that the textile will end its life in landfill. Comparatively, wool that is farmed, harvested and manufactured into textiles using ethically and environmentally responsible processes, provides a more comprehensive solution. Wool contributes a number of health benefits in use, and as a naturally renewable and biodegradable product offers distinct 'end of life' environmental advantages. The 'revive' product stewardship initiative developed by Instyle further optimises the manufactured product lifecycle of LIFE textiles¨ through reuse and recycling.

View the animated <a href="http://www.instyle.com.au/storyoflife/index.html" target="top"><u>Story of Life</u></a> and <a href="http://www.instyle.com.au/farmtofabric/index.html" target="top"><u>Farm to fabric</u></a> on Instyle's website and read about the company's <a href="http://www.instyle.com.au/environmental.html" target="top"><u>integrated sustainable practices</u></a>.&