Well folks, the rumors are true: winter is here...again. As you pull on your gloves and scarves and sweaters, your thoughts may turn to warm, sunny, faraway beaches where 'winter' is only a curious myth. However, surprising new research indicates that there is a connection between the clothing made for winter-time protection and the sparkling sands of coastal beaches. Many winter clothes, especially fleeces, are made from artificial plastic fibers — pure petroleum-based and/or petroleum-reacted fibers such as acrylic, polyester, rayon, and nylon, among others.
Now, as if wrapping your body in soft and pliable petrochemical plastics (laced with toxic dyes and endocrine-disrupting softening agents) each day isn't frightening enough, every time these clothing items made with these artificial fibers are put into the wash, the garment sheds up to 2000 of the fibers into the wash-water, according to a
study published in the November 2012 issue of Environmental Science and Technology.
Scientists were shocked to find these micro-fibers make their way into the oceans and onto beaches! In a
study done by a team of ecologists from University College Dublin, the scientists collected samples from 18 different beaches on different continents and found the petroleum-based fibers on every beach they tested.
These synthetic petroleum-based plastic micro-fibers are more than just an unsightly addition to beach sand, however. They also enter the food chain through filter feeders like oysters and mussels. While the
long-term implications remain unclear, it is known that mollusks have been ingesting the plastic-based artificial fibers, thereby introducting plastic into the ocean food chain...and onto your dinner plate. Yikes!
What can a concerned citizen who wants to stay warm do about this issue? Manufacturers are not required to test their garments for shedding, and it remains unclear if washing machines could offer filters to catch the fibers before they enter the water system.
The safest bet, to avoid plastics accumulating on beaches and in the food chain, seems to be to seek out and purchase only natural, truly biodegradable fibers like wool, silk, cotton, linen or hemp. At our Terressentials stores we stock the finest handcrafted winter accessories made from beautiful and warm natural fibers from around the world. Another benefit of most of our natural fiber goods is that your purchase supports global fair trade co-ops — Nepal, Peru, India — where the people practice traditional knitting, weaving and spinning crafts that artisans have been perfecting for millenia. We even have incredibly soft and intricately-designed fair made woven wool scarves from Scotland, where raising sheep and weaving woolens is a centuries old liveliehood.
If wool isn't your thing, don't worry, we've got you covered, too! We have a lovely selection of warm handwoven organic cotton wraps in reversible contrasting rich colors, and scarves in fun knubby textures. Be sure to check out our wonderful shimmering silk scarves from India, Cambodia and Vietnam in a rainbow of hues and and a forest of textures that will add a pop of color and style to your wardrobe.
Natural isn't just healthier for our oceans and you, its a fashion statement that supports farmers and artisans around the world — and one that spites the gray days of Ol' Man Winter.
Oh, and be sure to drop by our Frederick store soon to catch our special Winter's Last Chance Event — we're offering 30% off on our selected woolen accessories. This is your great opportunity to brighten your wardrobe with lively, fun and luxurious hats, gloves, mittens, scarves, shrugs and handbags — while they last!
