Many of us are considering our environmental impact in all aspects of our lives, and this includes our hobbies. For those who love knitting or crocheting, one factor you will need to consider is whether your yarn is sustainable.
Types of yarn
There are many different types of yarn, such as 4-ply yarn and DK yarn, and it can be made from many different materials. You may have a favourite type or find that different materials suit different projects. To choose a yarn, visit your local craft shop to see what is available, or browse an online store such as https://www.woolcouturecompany.com/collections/dk-yarn to discover an array of colours and textures. While there are many possibilities, you may like to consider how sustainable some common forms are.
Acrylic
Acrylic yarns are not sustainable. They are made from fossil fuels and the manufacturing process can release toxic fumes. When washed, garments made from acrylic yarns will release microplastics. Acrylic is not easily broken down, so when it is disposed of, it can continue to pollute the environment or will need to be incinerated.
Wool
Wool is a much more sustainable yarn. It is a natural product and as sheep can be sheared each year, it is naturally renewable. As a natural material, it is also biodegradable, so when it eventually reaches the end of its life, the woollen object breaks down. However, you will also need to consider how the wool is dyed, as the dyes may not be from a sustainable, environmentally-friendly source, as well as the welfare of the sheep and other wool-producing animals.
Bamboo
Bamboo is popular for those who want a natural yarn that is not from an animal source. As a fast-growing grass that does not require pesticides or fertilisers, it is a sustainable option that will biodegrade when no longer needed. However, the chemical process commonly used to transform bamboo into fibres is less eco-friendly. And as a fast-growing plant, bamboo can also be invasive when introduced to new ecosystems.
Although any yarn will have some environmental impact, generally opting for natural fibres will be more sustainable.
