How climate positive clothing is shaping the ecological role of fashion

From using custom-made, biodegradable fabrics and 'living' clothes that photosynthesise to polyester created from planet-warming carbon dioxide, there is a race for startups to spur sustainability in fashion. Photo composite: Instagram/@mycotex_nl, @postcarbonlab

From using custom-made, biodegradable fabrics and "living" clothes that photosynthesise to polyester created from planet-warming carbon dioxide, European start-ups are on a quest to transform one of the world's most polluting industries – fashion.

The business is responsible for 10% of global carbon emissions, more than all international flights and maritime shipping combined during the pre-pandemic period, said the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).