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Sustainable wood fibers: current trends and the future

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Textile and fashion industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. Heavy use of pesticides, unsustainable irrigation in the cotton fields, dependence of petroleum-based synthetic fibers, non-biodegradable solid waste, microplastics in waterways are some examples of the environmental problems what the textile industry currently faces. The industry is looking for sustainable alternative raw materials that is also economically feasible. Exemplary growth in the textile industry in recent decades also mean huge investments in the infrastructure, established supply chain and technically informed workers. Any change in the raw materials means disturbing the entire ecosystem. However, it is important to move towards sustainable materials and circular economy. Biodegradable and sustainably produced wood fibers are believed to be able to replace currently produced fibers in a global market with slight disturbance in the ecosystem. Finland and Sweden, countries with many forest based product, is the forerunner of new generation wood fiber production. However, the knowledge has not been transferred to peers in textile production countries like India, Bangladesh and China. The aim of this project is to write a comprehensive book about the wood fibers directed towards researchers, people within textile industry and consumers. Attention will be given to sources of the raw material, new production methods, environmental benefits and comparing production and quality of the traditional fiber to alternatives. Information will be collected by literature review, interviews and industrial visits. The applicants have studied and worked within the field of bio- and synthetic fibers and have the required competence to write and publish the above said handbook: Sustainable wood fibers: current trends and the future.

This project explores the historical evolution of textile fibers and their transition towards more sustainable alternatives. Over centuries, natural fibers such as cotton, hemp, jute, wool, and silk—derived from plants and animals—formed the backbone of textile production across cultures. However, the 20th century witnessed the rise of synthetic polymeric fibers, such as polyester and polyamide, driven by the growing global demand for textiles and the limitations of sustainably producing natural fibers at scale.

Today, polyester is the second most widely used textile fiber, but its environmental impact poses serious challenges. Inadequate recycling infrastructure means much of the textile waste ends up in landfills, where synthetic fibers resist degradation and break down into harmful microplastics. This environmental concern has sparked global research and innovation in sustainable textile alternatives, leading to the development of regenerated cellulose fibers and enhanced textile recycling technologies.

The fashion industry has recognized the need for sustainable solutions and is increasingly collaborating with manufacturers of regenerated fibers. Despite these advancements, access to knowledge remains uneven. While expertise on sustainable fibers is concentrated in Europe and the US, much of textile manufacturing is based in Asia, and many communities in Africa remain unaware of these developments.

In response, this project has produced a comprehensive book that introduces textile fibers—both natural and synthetic—their environmental impacts, and the evolution of regenerated cellulose fibers. It covers first- and second-generation regenerated fibers, their production processes, recent innovations, and sustainability assessments. The book aims to bridge global knowledge gaps and support the transition to more sustainable textile practices.

Springer Nature has accepted the request for publication and will release the book later this year.

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