Viscose is a popular fabric that is commonly used in clothing, bedding, and other textiles. It is made from wood pulp, cotton, or other plant-based materials, and is known for its soft, silky texture and its ability to drape well. But is viscose vegan and sustainable? Let’s take a closer look.
Viscose is a vegan fabric, as it is made from plant based materials, making it a great clothing choice for vegans. However, the manufacturing process involves the use of chemicals, some of which may be animal-derived.
In today’s post, we’ll also explore the potential use of animal-derived ingredients in the production of viscose fabrics, so you can make an informed decision when shopping for vegan and environmentally friendly clothing and home decor.
How is Viscose Made?
Viscose, (VI or CV is the material abbreviation) is made through a multi-step chemical process that involves dissolving wood pulp in a chemical solution.
The wood pulp is first treated with a mixture of chemicals, including sodium hydroxide and carbon disulfide, to create a solution called “viscose.”
This viscose solution is then filtered, deaerated, and aged to improve its quality.
The solution is then extruded through small holes to create long, thin fibers, which are then washed, bleached, and spun into yarn.
It’s available in a variety of colors and patterns, making it easy to find a style that suits your taste. Viscose is also easy to care for and can be machine-washed in most cases, which makes it a practical choice for everyday use.
Is Viscose Vegan?
Yes. Viscose is vegan friendly. It is free from animal derived materiels, making it a vegan choice for clothing and home decor.
However, while viscose is made from plant-based materials, the manufacturing process involves the use of chemicals, some of which may be animal-derived.
For example, carbon disulfide, which is used in the first stage of the process, may be made from animal products such as bones, skin, or wool.
Additionally, some viscose fabrics may be treated with finishing chemicals that contain animal-derived ingredients.
But overall, most viscose fabrics are vegan-friendly, and most manufacturers have started using more eco-friendly and sustainable production methods.
If you are a vegan, it’s important to check the labels and ingredients list when shopping for viscose clothing or other products.
Is Viscose Environmentally Friendly?
The way we produce and consume food, clothing, and other goods can have a significant impact on the planet and its ecosystems.
The environmental impact of viscose can vary depending on the production process used.
The traditional method of producing viscose involves the use of a lot of water and chemicals, which can have negative effects on the environment.
The chemicals used in the production process can also be harmful to human health and contribute to air and water pollution.
Therfore, the traditional viscose production methods are not considered environmentally friendly due to the use of large amounts of water and chemicals that can be harmful to the environment.
However, more sustainable methods of producing viscose are becoming increasingly common. For example, some manufacturers are using closed-loop production processes, which recycle and reuse chemicals and waste materials. Others are using eco-friendly solvents and reducing their water usage.
Additionally, because viscose is made from plant-based materials, it is biodegradable and will break down naturally over time, unlike synthetic fabrics such as polyester.
Overall, the sustainability of viscose depends on the specific production process used. If you’re concerned about the environmental impact of your clothing or home decor, it’s important to research the manufacturing practices of the brands you’re considering and look for products that are produced using eco-friendly and sustainable methods.
Final thoughts:
While viscose is considered vegan friendly as it is made from plant-based materials, the manufacturing process and finishing treatments may involve animal-derived ingredients.
And if you’re concerned about the environmental impact, Viscose isn’t an ideal material for vegans to use.
