Material

Definition with Uses

Other considerations

Beeswax

A natural wax produced by honeybees, often used in textiles and coatings.

Used in waxed cotton fabrics, leather treatments, and as a biodegradable alternative to synthetic coatings. Used in cosmetics, polishes, and sometimes as a coating or finish on textiles.

Provides a natural water-resistant finish, reducing reliance on petroleum-based waxes. Sustainability: Can be sustainable if harvested responsibly with minimal disruption to bee colonies. Ethical Concerns: Concerns about the impact of beeswax harvesting on bee populations and colony health. Innovations: Plant-based waxes are being explored as alternatives to beeswax. Regional Variations: Beeswax is produced globally wherever beekeeping is practiced.

Chitin

A naturally occurring polysaccharide found in the exoskeletons of crustaceans (like crabs, shrimp, and lobsters), insects, and the cell walls of fungi. It is the second most abundant natural polymer in the world after cellulose. Chitin can be processed into various forms, including fibers, films, and powders, and is being explored for use in textiles due to its strength, flexibility, biodegradability, and potential for use as a dye or coating.

Applied in antimicrobial textiles, bioplastics, and water-resistant finishes.

A biodegradable alternative to synthetic fibers, improving circularity. Sustainability: Highly sustainable due to its abundance and biodegradability. Ethical Concerns: Minimal ethical concerns when sourced from crustacean shells, a byproduct of the food industry. Concerns are more likely when sourced from insects raised specifically for chitin extraction. Innovations: Being researched for various applications in textiles, including antimicrobial finishes, sustainable fibers, and as a component in bio-based plastics. Regional Variations: Can be sourced globally wherever crustaceans are harvested or insects are farmed. Research into insect-based chitin is ongoing in various parts of the world.

Chitosan

A derivative of chitin with antimicrobial and biodegradable properties.

Used in odor-resistant clothing, protective coatings, and wound-healing textiles.

Reduces reliance on chemical treatments and enhances fabric longevity.

Cochineal

A natural dye derived from the cochineal insect, a small scale insect that lives on prickly pear cacti. Used to produce a vibrant red to crimson dye for textiles and food.

Used in textile dyeing, especially for luxury silks and wools.

A biodegradable and non-toxic alternative to synthetic red dyes, reducing water pollution. Sustainability: Can be sustainable if the cochineal insects are farmed responsibly. Ethical Concerns: Some concerns exist regarding the farming practices of cochineal insects. Innovations: Natural dyes derived from other sources are being explored as alternatives. Regional Variations: Cochineal is native to the Americas and is primarily farmed in Peru and Mexico.

Honeycomb Textile Structures

Structures inspired by honeybee combs, used for lightweight and durable textiles.

Applied in performance wear, insulation layers, and modular garment design.

Enhances material efficiency and reduces fabric waste.

Lac

A resin secreted by the lac insect, a tiny insect that lives on trees in Southeast Asia. Used to produce shellac, a coating or finish for buttons, jewelry, and other accessories.

Used to produce lac dye (red-purple hues) and shellac for textile finishes.

A natural and renewable resource that replaces petroleum-based resins. Sustainability: Can be sustainable if the lac insects are farmed responsibly and the host trees are managed sustainably. Ethical Concerns: Some concerns exist regarding the impact of lac production on forest ecosystems. Innovations: Alternative coatings made from plant-based resins are being developed. Regional Variations: Lac production is concentrated in India and Thailand.

Royal Jelly

A milky secretion produced by worker bees. Used in some high-end cosmetics and skincare products, though its efficacy is debated. A nutrient-rich secretion from honeybees, sometimes explored in textile innovation.

Used experimentally in bio-fabricated fibers and skin-enhancing textiles.

Has potential in regenerative textiles and biomimicry-based fabric treatments.. Sustainability: Can be sustainable if harvested responsibly without harming the bee colony. Ethical Concerns: Concerns about the impact of royal jelly harvesting on bee populations and colony health. Innovations: Plant-based alternatives are available for skincare products. Regional Variations: Royal jelly is produced globally wherever beekeeping is practiced.

Shellac

A resin derived from lac, secreted by the lac insect. Used as a coating or finish on buttons, jewelry, and other accessories.

Applied as a natural stiffener and water-repellent coating for fashion accessories.

Biodegradable and non-toxic, reducing reliance on synthetic varnishes. Sustainability: Can be sustainable if the lac insects are farmed responsibly and the host trees are managed sustainably. Ethical Concerns: Some concerns exist regarding the impact of lac production on forest ecosystems. Innovations: Alternative coatings made from plant-based resins are being developed. Regional Variations: Lac production, and therefore shellac production, is concentrated in India and Thailand.

Silk

A fine, strong, and lustrous fiber produced by silkworms. Used in a wide range of garments, from dresses to scarves. A protein fiber produced by silkworms, widely used in luxury textiles.

Used in garments, accessories, and sustainable alternatives such as peace silk.

Biodegradable and durable; ethical sourcing (Ahimsa silk) minimizes harm. Sustainability: Can be sustainable if produced using methods that prioritize silkworm welfare and environmental protection. Ethical Concerns: Traditional silk production involves boiling silkworms alive to harvest the silk. Innovations: Peace silk or Ahimsa silk is produced without killing the silkworms, offering a more ethical alternative. Organic silk farming practices are also being developed. Regional Variations: China is the largest producer of silk, but silk production also occurs in India, Italy, and other countries.

Spider Silk (Bioengineered)

A synthetic protein fiber inspired by spider silk, produced through biotech processes.

Used in high-performance sportswear, sustainable luxury fashion, and bio-textiles.

Stronger than steel yet biodegradable, offering a fossil-free textile alternative.

Termite-Inspired Biomaterials

Materials influenced by termite mound architecture, applied in textile design.

Explored in self-cooling fabrics and breathable garment structures.

Promotes passive climate control, reducing energy use in fashion.