Biofabrication and Sustainable Fashion: Exploring Novel Materials for Eco-Friendly Apparel

Abstract

For decades, the conventional production of textiles and apparel has heavily relied on resource-intensive methods and materials that exact a considerable toll on the planet. It is within this context that biofabrication emerges as a pivotal and innovative solution, transcending the boundaries of conventional fashion. This research article embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the intersection of biofabrication and sustainable fashion. To explore the role of biofabrication in sustainable fashion, this study adopts a mixed-methods approach. Primary data will be collected through interviews and surveys conducted with experts in biofabrication, fashion designers, and representatives from fashion brands that have embraced biofabricated materials. Biofabrication represents a paradigm shift in textile and material production, guided by sustainability, cruelty-free practices, and endless design possibilities. This innovative approach harnesses the power of biology and biotechnology to cultivate materials with minimal environmental impact. Through the manipulation of living organisms—ranging from fungi to bacteria and algae—biofabrication enables the creation of textiles and apparel that are not only environmentally benign but also imbued with the potential for limitless design variations. As we navigate this terrain, it is crucial to recognize that the fashion industry's future hinges on its ability to embrace sustainable practices and innovative materials like those offered by biofabrication.