In its recent endeavor to support organic textiles and in opposition to genetic engineering, Patagonia Inc. has teamed up the biotech startup Bolt Threads to help propel innovative clothes to the apparel market. However, a new report released by the civil society experts cut through the hype.
The report suggests that any commercial-scale expansion of biotech textiles could create a dangerous new source of biotech waste that puts additional pressure on ecosystems and divert support away from the sustainable natural fiber economies.
"Genetically Engineered Clothes: Synthetic Biology's New Spin on Fast Fashion" report was released today by technology watchdog ETC Group and natural textile collaborative Fibershed details on how the use of 'biosynthetic' fabrics could disrupt supply chains and displace the natural fiber production.
In particular, it examines the false promises and unproven claims that are accompanying so-called 'spider silk' as well as DuPont's bioengineered Sorona fabric. Despite being promoted as a 'green' option, biosynthetic fibers made by companies such as Bolt Threads Inc. depend on industrial feed stocks like sugar, which is linked to deforestation and diminishing labour conditions.
Comment: Researchers create bio-compatible synthetic spider silk that could be used in regenerative medicine
Beyond supply chain disruptions, the "Genetically Engineered Clothes" report calls attention to the potential new forms of biowaste created by the microorganisms engineered to produce the new materials. 'B-waste' for example, a byproduct of microorganisms found in the production of genetically engineered clothes that have never been released into the environment, may be difficult to dispose of safely and creates risks of new microorganisms spreading through the water and air.
The report particularly points out the confusions and contradictions of Patagonia, a brand trying to establish itself as an organic leader while simultaneously lending its green credentials to a biotech startup. These organisations are joined by other environmental, farming, and social justice groups who are together urging Patagonia and other investors to reconsider genetic engineering and switch their focus to socially-just and sustainable natural sources of fibers.
"Genetically engineered clothes fiber production is risky, unnecessary and could perpetuate unsustainable pesticide-intensive industrial agriculture," said Dana Perls, senior Food and Technology campaigner with Friends of the Earth. The full report is available online for downloading here.
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