Banana Fabric - An Appealing Alternative to Silk

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Banana Fabrics

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silk Fabrics

Silk fabrics are woven from fibers obtained from silkworm cocoons. These fabrics have been sought after for centuries due to the unique beauty, softness and strength of this material. Yet, as growing consumer awareness about production methods increase, a dark shadow has emerged over the industry.

Silkworms are breed and harvested specifically for fabric production. During this process, these worms are literally steamed of gassed alive while still in their cocoons.  This allows manufacturers to access fibers that are woven into silk. People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals (PETA), estimates 2,500 silkworms are killed to make just one pound of silk.  PETA and other animal rights organizations strongly condemn this practice. Instead, they recommend the usage of alternative cruelty free, natural fabrics. 

While having a similar appearance to palm trees, the term “tree”, as it pertains to bananas, is a misnomer. Bananas are actually fast growing tropical plants technically classified as herbs. Mature plants grow to 12'- 20' within 15-18 months. Once the plant bears fruit, they die and another plant grows from the previous plants roots. Banana fibers are often sourced from the Abaca variety which bears non edible fruit. Other times, farms harvesting banana crops collect what would normally be waste to use for banana fiber production. Stems, leaves and even peels can all be used. Fibers are extracted from the pulp before they are dried under the sun prior to processing. 

While modern machinery is now available, much of this work is still done by hand. Another big plus is pesticides and insecticides are generally not necessary to grow these crops. Less energy usage with little to no waste translates to many great environmental benefits. Banana fibers fabrics are also biodegradable.