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Fibres derived from bio-based, renewable sources like plants

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Biosynthetics

Bio-synthetics are made wholly or partly from renewable biomass through chemical processes and can reduce fossil fuel reliance compared to conventional synthetics

Bio-synthetics are man-made fibres made wholly or partially from renewable crops such as corn, sugarcane, or wheat. While they are often marketed as greener alternatives to conventional synthetics, their overall environmental impact depends heavily on factors like the type of feedstock, energy sources used during production, and their end-of-life behaviour.

Most bio-synthetics undergo chemical processing, and many, such as bio-based PET, are chemically identical to fossil-based versions, meaning they are non-biodegradable and shed microplastics similarly. Others, like PLA, are compostable but only under industrial composting conditions.

Sustainability benefits can also be reduced if feedstocks are genetically modified (GMO), require intensive agriculture, or compete with food production.

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