Freshwater Pollution

The way cotton is dyed has created a major global pollution crisis. Cotton dyeing is one of the most chemically-intensive industries on earth—one fifth of all industrial freshwater pollution comes from textile dyeing and finishing (World Bank). Bright colored rivers are becoming a regular sight, especially in developing countries. (Sourcing Journal)

More than 3,600 individual textile dyes are being manufactured and used by the dyeing industry today (World Bank), many of which are poisonous and damaging to human health. To make matters worse, it is estimated that more than 80% of all industrial wastewater is not even treated prior to discharge to the environment. (Ecotextile News)