ABSTRACT
The struggles of alternative fiber manufacturers underline the brands' and retailers' obligation to work more closely with suppliers and commit to their output. Conventional farming consumes large amount of water and chemicals to make cotton grow on land that is becoming scarce and is needed to feed a growing population. Organic cotton is the strictest among the sustainable cotton standards as it prohibits the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers as well as genetically modified seeds. Fairtrade is the standard with a special focus on economic sustainability and women, offering a fair and stable price through a guaranteed minimum and an additional Fairtrade premium. Polyester makes up well over 60 percent of the global fiber market, together with other manmade synthetic fibers such as nylon or acrylic. Sorona is billed as breaking down less quickly than regular spandex, resulting in less bagging, fewer washes and more durability.
