Textiles — Ethical & Environmental (AQA GCSE Design & Technology): Revision Note

Environmental factors of textiles: recyclable or reused materials

• The environmental factors of textiles refer to how their production, use and disposal impact the environment

• Some textiles can be recycled or reused, including:

  • Cotton and polyester blends

• Recycling mixed fibres is more difficult

• Natural fibres are biodegradable

• Other textiles can be reused or repurposed into new products

  • This reduces waste

Social factors of textiles: social responsibility

• The social factors of textiles refer to how their production affects workers and communities

• Textile production should:

  • Ensure fair wages

  • Ensure safe working conditions

  • Avoid exploitation, especially in large-scale clothing manufacturing

Cultural factors of textiles: sensitive to cultural influences

• The cultural factors of textiles refer to how fabrics, patterns and clothing styles are influenced by different cultures

• Certain patterns, garments or materials may have cultural or religious significance, so designers must be aware of this

  • One example is that tartan patterns are associated with clans in Scotland and often carry important historical associations

• Different cultures influence the types of textiles used, clothing styles and patterns, affecting global fashion and product design

Ethical factors of textiles: purchased from ethical sources

• The ethical factors of textiles are how responsibly the materials are sourced and produced

• Textiles should be:

  • Sourced responsibly

  • Use sustainable materials where possible

  • Ensure ethical labour practices throughout the supply chain