Underwear made of cotton is becoming increasingly rare, and the shift away from this natural fiber is raising alarms. As the textile industry embraces synthetic fibers like polyester, nylon, and spandex, many consumers and experts are questioning the long-term impact.
Cotton’s decline in underwear production is driven by cost, availability, and the rise of cheaper, synthetic materials. While these alternatives offer durability and elasticity, their environmental footprint is troubling. Unlike cotton, which is biodegradable, synthetics contribute to microplastic pollution and take centuries to break down.
The situation is exacerbated by the 15% drop in global cotton production over the past decade. As cotton farming becomes more expensive and less profitable, fewer farmers are growing it, leading to economic instability in rural areas. The decline of cotton also threatens millions of jobs worldwide.
Worse still, synthetic fibers come with health risks. Studies indicate that they can cause skin irritation and allergies, while the chemicals used in their production—such as petroleum for polyester—release harmful emissions. These fibers can also leach toxins into the environment, further endangering public health.
Sources:
https://www.newsweek.com/sanctuary-city-ban-republican-plan-2000351
https://www.econotimes.com/What-new-immigration-policies-will-Donald-Trump-introduce-in-2025-1698157
https://immitranslate.com/blog/trump-immigration-policy-second-term
https://rollingout.com/2024/12/10/6-immigration-changes-you-need-to-know/
https://www.yahoo.com/news/us-conservatives-baselessly-tie-orleans-220530973.html
https://www.ctinsider.com/news/article/nearly-54-of-extreme-conservatives-say-the-20017572.php
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