Polyester, a synthetic fibre derived from oil, is the world’s most commonly used fibre. It overtook cotton use in 2002 and made up 52 per cent of fibres produced globally in 2020.¹ Polyester is light, strong and easily dyed, can be woven or knitted and is easily blended with other fibres. Its easy-to-wash, wrinkle-free nature made it revolutionary when it first emerged in the 1970s. Its relative cheapness has fuelled the growth of fast fashion.
Demand for polyester has grown strongly and stead…
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